• Pakistan launches IRADA at NUST for tech development.
• Minister Saif emphasizes defense-academia-industry collaboration.
• IRADA envisions joint projects for economic contributions.

Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Dr. Umar Saif, presided over the foundation-laying ceremony of the Indigenous Research and Development Agency (IRADA) at the National Science and Technology Park, NUST.

Emphasizing the pivotal role of technology in driving innovation, boosting productivity, and enhancing efficiency across diverse industries, Minister Saif underscored the need for collaboration between the defense sector, academia, and industry in Pakistan. IRADA, he highlighted, aims to formalize and institutionalize these connections, fostering a collaborative environment for technological advancement.

During the event, Dr. Saif Umar articulated his vision for IRADA, envisioning a synergistic effort involving NUST, universities, industry, and the defense sector. He emphasized the potential for joint projects and products that can be commercialized, contributing significantly to the country’s economic development.

When Russia launched Sputnik in 1957, USA responded by creating DARPA which connected the Defence sector, Academia and industry in US to develop and commercialise cutting-edge technology important for both their national interests and economic growth. This resulted in the… pic.twitter.com/svHuEVuSER

— Umar Saif (@umarsaif) December 14, 2023

Drawing parallels to historical milestones in technology, the minister referenced the launch of Sputnik by Russia in 1957 and the subsequent establishment of DARPA by the USA. He highlighted the success of connecting the defense sector, academia, and industry, resulting in transformative technologies such as the Internet, GPS, and cryptography.

Dr. Saif Umar disclosed that NUST has generously agreed to host IRADA, providing the necessary ecosystem for its success. The Ministry of Science and Technology will fund and support IRADA as an independent entity, further solidifying its commitment to fostering technological advancements.

The initiative is poised to bring together top minds in academia, defense, and industry, propelling Pakistan’s technological landscape forward and contributing to sustained economic growth. IRADA, with its collaborative framework, is anticipated to play a pivotal role in the development of cutting-edge technologies that have the potential to shape the future of the nation.

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