In a groundbreaking move, the Ministry of Science and Technology has launched the Research and Development Agency (IRADA) at the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST). Caretaker Minister for Science and Technology, Dr Umar Saif marked the inauguration of IRADA, emphasizing its pivotal role in fostering innovation. Highlighting the objective of IRADA, he emphasized its role in fostering collaboration between the Defense sector, academia, and industry in Pakistan for technological advancement. He noted that while linkages between these sectors have existed, IRADA aims to formalize and institutionalize these connections. During the event, Dr. Saif Umar expressed his vision for IRADA, envisioning a collaborative effort involving NUST, universities, industry, and the Defense sector. He emphasized the potential for joint projects and products that can be commercialized to contribute significantly to the country's economic development. Drawing a historical parallel, the minister referred to the launch of Sputnik by Russia in 1957 and the subsequent creation of DARPA by the USA. He highlighted the success of connecting the defense sector, academia, and industry, resulting in the invention and commercialization of transformative technologies such as the Internet, GPS, and cryptography. The minister informed that NUST has graciously agreed to host IRADA and provide the necessary ecosystem for its success. The Ministry of Science and Technology will fund and support IRADA as an independent entity, he added. The minister said this initiative will bring together the top minds in academia, defense, and industry, furthering Pakistan's technological advancements and economic growth.
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