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KARACHI, Nov 24 (APP):Sindh Higher Education Commission (HEC) Chairman, Prof. Dr. S. M. Tariq Rafi, inaugurated the four-day 9th International Symposium-Cum-Training Course on Molecular Medicine and Drug Research (MMDR) at the Prof. Salimuzzaman Siddiqui Auditorium on Monday.
The event was organized by the Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research (PCMD), University of Karachi.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the Sindh HEC Chairman said that molecular medicine is a futuristic discipline that represents the future of modern healthcare.
The rapid advancements in this field, he added, will shape the future of diagnostics and therapy. He urged researchers to carry out high-quality, meaningful research that benefits humanity.
Expressing concern over Pakistan’s high burden of oral cancer, he emphasized that reducing its prevalence is the need of the hour. He further noted that national efforts should prioritize the production of quality scholars and researchers.
Highlighting the importance of international collaboration, he said that such partnerships serve as the backbone of any research institution. He appreciated the efforts made to organize this major scientific event, calling it an important step toward deepening the understanding of diseases at the molecular level and developing safe and effective drugs for prevalent disorders.
Other speakers at the ceremony included Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah, Director ICCBS; Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General OIC-COMSTECH; Ms. Nadira Panjwani, Chairperson Dr. Panjwani Memorial Trust; and Prof. Dr. Asmat Salim, Symposium Coordinator.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah welcomed national and international scholars, as well as the Sindh HEC Chairman, to the global scientific conference. He noted that a large number of international scholars are participating in the 9th MMDR, reflecting the scientific stature of the event organized by PCMD.
He described ICCBS as a major research establishment in the region, adding that its international reputation attracts students from across Pakistan and abroad. He expressed hope that the four-day symposium would strengthen scientific cooperation between national and foreign researchers.
Prof. Dr. Iqbal Choudhary, speaking on the significance of knowledge, said that knowledge is worthless if it does not benefit humanity, and becomes truly meaningful only when it contributes to human welfare. He described ICCBS, University of Karachi, as one of the finest research institutions in the world, adding that the mission of PCMD—a component of ICCBS—is to foster excellence and achieve international recognition in graduate training and research aligned with national needs.
Ms. Nadira Panjwani, in her address, stated that molecular medicine represents a paradigm shift in modern healthcare, and PCMD is playing a pivotal role in advancing this field. She said the center is committed to enhancing the quality and quantity of scientific training for graduate students in molecular medicine and rational drug design, with a focus on developing new and effective diagnostic and treatment techniques for prevalent diseases.
In her vote of thanks, Prof. Dr. Asmat Salim welcomed all national and international delegates.