ISLAMABAD: Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has called on scientists, researchers and innovators to work tirelessly to position Pakistan at the forefront of technological advancements.

He emphasised on the pivotal role of science and technology and urged scientists to make strenuous efforts to put the country on the path to progress and development.

The minister inaugurated a three-day international conference on 3D Printing and Vacuum Technology at the National Centre for Physics (NCP) at Quaid-i-Azam University on Wednesday.

The conference brings together more than 50 eminent researchers and scientists from around the globe to discuss the latest advancements in these transformative technologies.

Says 3D printing, vacuum technology catalysts for reshaping industries, redefining economies

The minister highlighted the profound potential of 3D printing and vacuum technology. These innovations, he said, were not just technological milestones but also catalysts for reshaping industries, redefining economies and revolutionising everyday life.

By enabling precise manufacturing in controlled environments, these technologies offer solutions across healthcare, aerospace, construction and energy sectors.

“We are standing at the intersection of two remarkable innovations — 3D printing and vacuum technology — that have transformed production, manufacturing and research worldwide. This conference marks the beginning of Pakistan’s formal journey into the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” he said.

Highlighting global examples of 3D printing and vacuum technology, the minister drew attention to remarkable achievements in healthcare, aerospace and infrastructure. He explained that 3D printing had made groundbreaking progress in healthcare, especially in bio-printing, where countries like the US and Germany have pioneered the creation of living tissues, custom-designed implants and prosthetics.

He underscored Pakistan’s aspiration to enhance its space capabilities, in collaboration with agencies like Suparco, using similar technologies.

In the construction sector, Dubai’s initiative to use 3D printing for 25pc of its new buildings by 2030 was highlighted, with implications for affordable housing, while China’s rapid construction of entire neighbourhoods using this technology was presented as another notable example.

The federal minister outlined the government’s vision for utilising these technologies as part of the five Es – Export, Ecomonic growth, Energy, Education and Equality- Development Framework, aiming to transform Pakistan into a trillion-dollar economy by 2035.

He detailed how 3D printing could play a crucial role in boosting exports, improving digital transformation through e-Pakistan initiatives, promoting environmentally sustainable manufacturing, enhancing energy efficiency and empowering marginalised communities through accessible technological solutions.

Reiterating the government’s dedication to fostering a supportive ecosystem, Ahsan Iqbal highlighted initiatives such as the Pakistan Innovation Fund and centres of excellence to drive innovation.

He stressed that progress would require collaboration among the government, private sector, academia and research institutions. The aim is to equip the youth with the necessary skills to lead in these emerging fields through universities, vocational institutes and training centres.

Minister Iqbal stressed on the importance of a stable political environment and policy continuity for Pakistan to fully capitalise on emerging technologies like 3D printing and vacuum technology. He pointed out that countries like Singapore, India and Malaysia have successfully integrated these technologies by maintaining consistent governance and policies.

He also referenced the progress made under Vision 2025 from 2013 to 2018, which was hindered by policy reversals in subsequent years.

“The success stories of other nations demonstrate that long-term stability was crucial for sustained economic growth. Pakistan must maintain policy consistency to prevent setbacks and ensure a steady path toward development,” he said.

The minister urged participants to embrace the tools and opportunities presented by 3D printing and vacuum technology, asserting that the nation’s progress was in the hands of its innovators.

He concluded by emphasising on the importance of well-equipped libraries and laboratories that operate day and night inspiring the metaphor of illuminated library windows symbolising the rise of brilliant minds dedicated to national advancement.

“We are not merely observers of technological change; we are active participants in shaping Pakistan’s future. Let us work together to ensure that Pakistan becomes a leader in this age of technological innovation,” he concluded.

Published in Dawn, October 24th, 2024