THIS refers to the advertisement by the ministry of information technology about the funding for projects being carried out by students (Dec 9). It is indeed an encouraging step by the ministry.

This will help a lot of students in completion of their final year projects. No industry can flourish without active support for research and development activities.

In my opinion, projects assigned to students should be based on industrial needs, i.e., upgradation of the existing system for boosting production that will ultimately result in the economic growth of the country.

There is a dire need to explore and establish alternative and renewable energy means in Pakistan. The main focus on assigning projects must be on creating facilities in our local industries, such as fabrication of solar panels.

The main ingredient is silicon which is available in abundance in Pakistan. According to my information, solar panels are imported though it can be fabricated locally.

This is one such example. There are many other applications of research and development-based projects.

Nano-based projects should also be encouraged. I am quite sure that talented undergraduate students can prove their worth if provided opportunities.

I request all stakeholders to encourage our talented students to participate in boosting the economy of Pakistan.

I also urge that liaison between universities and industries should be further strengthened so that benefit can be transformed for the betterment of our people.

ENGR RIAZ AKBAR Wah Cantt