THIS is apropos Sumamah Hamidullah’s letter ‘Engineering research’ (March 9). No one will deny that there is a lack of research culture in Pakistan, otherwise there wouldn’t have been loadshedding. All scholars undergoing MS programmes in different disciplines must approach university rectors, who can have memorandums of understanding with relevant industries for the betterment of scholars, as well as of industries.

Our survival rests on research and development. It is sad to note that Pakistan does not occupy position among top 50 countries of the world as far research and development is concerned. I think the scholar who visited the industry was denied access to its various facilities because industrialists were scared of leaking of data of their industry.

There is a dire need for establishing close bonds between industry and academia if we want to promote our industries. Furthermore, the Higher Education Commission can play its role in promoting research activities.

The HEC can further evaluate the papers submitted by scholars in which emphasis on economic boost must be accorded priority.

Engr R. Riaz Akbar

Wah Cantt

Published in Dawn, April 19th, 2015

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