KARACHI, Feb 16: Experts have underscored the need for introducing a research culture in the country's universities. For this purpose they proposed that research be carried out in line with the needs of the people.

Speaking at a symposium titled "Research Planning" on Monday, they stressed the need for collaborative work among universities, both foreign and local, and also with the industry. The symposium was organized by the Dow University of Health Sciences.

The vice-chancellor of the university, Prof Masood Hameed Khan, pointed out that all the faculty members would be asked to submit their research proposals. He announced that the Pakistan Medical Research Council's cell, which is based in the Dow Medical College, will be revived.

A PhD programme will soon be launched in his institution, said Prof Khan. More funds in this area would be provided by the newly-formed university. Dr Khawar Mehdi, who is based in the United States, made a presentation on 'Academia and Industrial Linkages In Health Sector' in which he remarked that due to a lack of funds Pakistan was lagging behind other countries in the field of research.

For instance, explained Dr Mehdi, Pakistan spent merely 2 per cent of its GDP on education, whereas Africa countries were spending four per cent or more. The spending in this area stood at 5 per cent in the developed countries.

He pointed out that even among the Muslim countries Pakistan stood at the bottom of the table so far as spending in the social sector was concerned. The academia had both credibility and integrity but the issue of funding was a tricky one. Considerable money could be generated through linkages with foreign agencies and local industrial units, said Dr Mehdi.

Dr Seemi Khan of the Tuft University, Belgium, made a detailed presentation on how to solicit funds from international donors and educational, scientific and developmental agencies.

Dr Waqar Kazmi of the Tuft Medical University, Boston, explained the various research methodologies. Dr Saira Saleem of the Aga Khan University was among the speakers.