LAHORE: (Wednesday, October 28, 2026): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali said that chemistry is at the center of scientific research, with several fields, including medicine, agriculture, and engineering, relying on it. He was addressing the inaugural session of the three-day 24th International Conference CHEMCON-26 and 36th National Chemistry Conference, organized by the PU School of Chemistry in collaboration with the University of Home Economics and the Chemical Society of Pakistan, to celebrate 100 years of academic excellence. On this occasion, Vice Chancellor University of Home Economics Prof. Dr. Zeb-un-Nisa Hussain, Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mahmood Saleem, President, Chemical Society of Pakistan, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah, Dean Faculty of Science Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram, Head School of Chemistry Prof. Dr. Adeel Afzal, faculty members and a large number of researchers, scientists, and students from across Pakistan and countries including the United Kingdom and Malaysia. In his address, PU VC Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali said that universities play a vital role in bringing researchers together on a common platform and sharing their research findings and academic experiences with students. This enables students to learn about the research being conducted at other institutions. He said that the PUSC is among the leading departments, with its faculty members and scientists having established a strong reputation both nationally and internationally. He added that chemistry would become even more important in the coming years as AI transforms every sphere of life and the world increasingly relies on renewable energy. Appreciating the organizers for arranging the conference, he expressed hope that the event would prove particularly beneficial for young researchers. Prof. Dr. Zeb-un-Nisa Hussain said that such events are essential for promoting knowledge, research, sharing of experiences, and professional networking. She added that the conference provides an excellent opportunity to benefit from the expertise of nationally and internationally recognized scientists and researchers in addressing the challenges posed by emerging technologies. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah said that PU is one of the country's oldest and most prestigious institutions, which has produced Nobel laureates. He stated that the present era is defined by knowledge and research, and the Chemical Society of Pakistan will continue to play its role in promoting both. Prof. Dr. Adeel Afzal said that more than 800 researchers and scientists from national and international institutions are expected to participate in the three-day conference, being held under the theme “Chemistry for Sustainable Development.” He expressed confidence that the conference would help promote new trends and developments in the field of chemistry.