PESHAWAR, Oct 28: Speakers at a seminar here called for setting up an advanced Material Research Institute in the NWFP and an Academia Industry-Government Forum for the economic development of the region and country.

According to a press release, the speakers were addressing the second seminar of its kind in the history of the University of Peshawar, entitled “Where Academia and Industry Meet 2007 II”, held on Saturday.

Prof Dr Mohammad Javed Khan, Vice-Chancellor, University of Peshawar, chaired the inaugural session of the seminar.

He informed industrialists about the facilities available at the University, especially Centralised Resource Laboratory, and assured them of his support in enhancing academia-industry collaboration.

Dr Rozina Tufail, MNA and Chairperson of the Committee for Popularization of Science, was the chief guest.

Referring to the establishment of new engineering universities on modern lines, she said: “The country is undergoing a transition period and we must change now if we are interested in our survival and development.”

The principal organiser of the event, Prof Dr Yaseen Iqbal demanded for a workable practical system to encourage academics, industry and researchers to design and pursue innovative projects.

He explained that industrial production on the basis of original research was the only way for economical development and optimisation of utilisation of our mineral and human resources.

Dr Iqbal informed the audience about the establishment of the Pakistan Material Society which could provide a platform to scientists, mineralogists, industry and all those interested in the development of a science and technology culture.

The second session of the seminar was chaired by Prof Dr Mohammad Daud Khan, Vice-Chancellor, Khyber Medical University, whereas Liaquat Ahmad Khan, President, Sarhad Chambers of Commerce and Industry, was the guest of honour.

Dr Daud Khan emphasised upon the need for a strong academia-industry forum and offered his support to materialise the idea. He proposed a practicable plan to come forward to take over the responsibilities.

Mr Liaquat assured of his support for a strong academia-industry.