Scholars Do Not Fear Challenges, as Life Is Full of Them, Says Prof. Atta-ur-Rahman
Karachi – 22 June 2026 (MT team) : Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, Professor Emeritus and former Federal Minister for Science and Technology, said on Monday that scholars do not fear challenges because life is full of them. He emphasized that with dedication, honesty, hard work, and sincerity, anyone can successfully overcome challenges, whether they are related to scientific pursuits or personal life.
He was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of a mini-symposium titled “Life and Chemical Sciences: Catalyzing Innovation and Transformative Discovery,” held at the Prof. Salimuzzaman Siddiqui Auditorium of the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi. The event was jointly organized by ICCBS, the Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS), and Aga Khan University (AKU), Karachi.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah, Director of ICCBS, and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Wasy of Aga Khan University also addressed the gathering.
Prof. Atta-ur-Rahman highlighted the importance of knowledge, stating that scholars must equip themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to face challenges arising in every sphere of life. He advised students to maintain peace of mind so that difficulties do not provoke anger or irrational reactions.
Speaking about quantum computing, he described it as a groundbreaking scientific advancement that harnesses the principles of quantum physics to perform certain calculations far more efficiently than conventional computers, opening new possibilities in science, engineering, medicine, and cybersecurity. He noted that quantum computers are particularly promising for solving problems that are extremely difficult for classical computers.
Prof. Atta-ur-Rahman also shared the early history of the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences and reflected on its evolution into a leading research institution.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah described the students of ICCBS as the institution’s greatest assets and urged them to remain focused on their education and research. Quoting the late Prof. Dr. Salimuzzaman Siddiqui, he said that science is driven by passion and love, qualities that enable students to achieve excellence in scientific research. He added that ICCBS is committed to providing its students with high-quality academic mentoring and research training.
Welcoming participants from various universities, Prof. Raza Shah said that by encouraging dialogue and collaboration, the symposium aims to foster partnerships that advance scientific inquiry for the benefit of humanity. He noted that the symposium welcomes contributions from a broad range of disciplines within the life and chemical sciences, including both basic and clinical research.
The one-day symposium brought together more than 100 outstanding students and young researchers from public and private universities across Sindh, providing a dynamic platform for scientific exchange in the fields of life and chemical sciences.
Prof. Muhammad Wasy emphasized the importance of collaboration between chemical and health sciences. He said that one of the primary objectives of the Pakistan Academy of Sciences is to support and promote young scientists in Pakistan. He also appreciated the ICCBS administration for organizing such a valuable and well-coordinated mini-symposium.
The symposium was attended by research scholars, students, scientists, professionals, and faculty members from public and private universities across Sindh.
