LAHORE: (Tuesday, October 14, 2025): Punjab Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare Khawaja Imran Nazir has urged the researchers to play their role for overcoming Pakistan’s public health challenges and reduce reliance on other countries for medicines and vaccines. He expressed these views while addressing the closing ceremony of the 8th International Conference on Applied Zoology (ICAZ-2025) organized by the Punjab University Institute of Zoology, in collaboration with the Applied Zoological Society of Pakistan and the Government College University, Faisalabad, at Al-Razi Hall here on Tuesday. The event was attended by PU VC Prof Dr Muhammad Ali, GCUF VC Prof Dr Rauf-i-Azam, Vice Chairperson of the Applied Zoological Society of Pakistan Dr Farhat Jabeen, Director Institute of Zoology Dr Nabeela Ruhi, Organizing Secretary Dr Azhar Rasool, Registrar Dr Ahmad Islam, researchers, academicians, scientists, and a large number of students. In his address, Khawaja Imran Nazir said that it was a great honor for him to participate as the chief guest at the Punjab University’s 144th Founder’s Day ceremony. He congratulated the organizers for holding an informative and meaningful conference in the context of Pakistan’s needs. He said Pakistan was changing rapidly and was no longer what it was two years ago. He recalled that, not long ago, Pakistan’s foreign reserves had fallen below $3 billion, and many believed the country was on the brink of default. “Thanks to the government’s tireless efforts and some unconventional decisions, the situation has now improved significantly,” he said. He further stated that the government prioritize national interest over political gains, leading the country out of darkness toward stability. “Operation Bunyan al-Marsous proved to be a game changer for Pakistan,” the minister said, adding that Prime Minister of Pakistan Mian Shahbaz Sharif is now being warmly welcomed and honored around the world, and the country’s success is echoing globally. “Our armed forces have taught India lessons it will remember for generations,” he said, adding that the sacrifices of those guarding the borders allow the nation to live in peace. He remarked that the respect for the green passport has increased. He emphasized that Pakistan’s youth are highly talented and only need hope and encouragement. “Young people must know that many developed nations have implemented projects originally conceived in Pakistan,” he added. Khawaja Imran Nazir said that everyone must work collectively to project Pakistan’s positive image on social media and eliminate negativity from society.
Prof Dr Muhammad Ali said that the purpose of holding the conference at PU was to provide a dynamic platform for scientists. He stressed the need for collaborative research across disciplines to promote scientific progress, especially in areas such as food security, health sciences, and cotton research. He added that, as the founder of this conference and Vice Chancellor on the University’s Founder’s Day, addressing such a successful event was a milestone. He congratulated all faculty members, staff, students, and alumni, and said that Pakistan’s survival and progress are deeply linked with the PU, which has produced many renowned figures. “The country’s defense, dignity, and development are impossible without knowledge and awareness,” he remarked, adding that PU would continue to encourage such academic activities.
Prof Dr Rauf-i-Azam stated that despite limited resources, Pakistani universities were promoting excellent research, though more funding was needed. He said that creating new knowledge was the responsibility of universities, and that such scientific conferences are essential for fostering research collaboration and problem-solving. He emphasized the importance of providing platforms where researchers can exchange ideas and contribute to finding solutions to national challenges.
Dr Nabila Ruhi, Dr Farhat Jabeen, and Dr Ahmad Islam along with foreign delegates also addressed the conference and expressed gratitude to the vice chancellors, researchers, organizers, and participants. As part of PU’s 144th Founders’ Day celebrations, a cake-cutting ceremony was also held.