ISLAMABAD, July 27: The Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) has played a leading role not only in the field of sophisticated defence-related technology but also in development of science and technology in the country.

This was stated by the rector of the National University of Science and Technology (Nust), Lt-Gen Syed Shujaat Hussain (retired), while speaking at the 14th All-Pakistan Software Competition and Exhibition held here on Saturday.

The Nust rector said scientist and engineers of the KRL had acquired and developed scientific know-how and technology under difficult circumstances.

“Over the past decade, the world went through a tremendous change because of computer technology which revolutionized industry, expanded the frontiers of scientific knowledge, contributed to the conveniences of modern life and transformed human lifestyles,” he added.

He said in view of ever expanding use of computers, it was important to encourage the local software industry to develop software packages for scientific, educational and commercial use. It is also important to encourage the software industry to export software and earn foreign exchange, he added.

Gen Hussain said the All-Pakistan Software Competition and Exhibition was an excellent platform for enhancing indigenous software development and for exchange of information between software developers.

He appreciated efforts made by the ministry of science and technology.