ISLAMABAD: Pakistan lacks funds to carry out pharmaceutical research aimed at inventing new medicines.

This was stated at a conference on “Recent Innovations in Pharmaceutical Sciences” held by Riphah International University at a local hotel.

The theme of the conference was to produce cheaper drugs for a common man.

Researchers from different countries participated in the conference.

Director ICCBS, University of Karachi Prof Dr Mohammad Iqbal Chaudry said drug security was necessary to promote pharmaceutical industry.

“We should not only focus on research but also develop clinical facilities to deal health related issues,” he said.

Vice Chancellor Riphah International University Prof Dr Anis Ahmad said only researchers and scientists could find solutions to the various problems.

“Unfortunately, we lack the capability to produce more effective research and this is the reason our Universities are not included in the list of world renowned universities,” he said.

Chairman Pharmaceutical Department Dr Arifullah while talking to Dawn said unfortunately students in Pakistan were not getting opportunity to do research as it requires billions of dollars.

“So we decided to call international researchers from different countries do that local health researchers can get benefit from their knowledge,” he said.

While replying to a question, Dr Arif said during the three-day conference researchers did not share the formula of medicines but they shared the basic information which would be beneficial for the Pakistani researchers.

Published in Dawn, March 4th, 2015

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