On the occasion of Space Week 2024, which is celebrated worldwide from October 4th to 10th, Federal Minister for Planning and Development, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, delivered a special address to the students of Islamabad Model College for Girls F-6/2. The purpose of this event was to make the youth aware of the importance of pursuing science and technology for a prosperous future. In his speech, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the importance of science education and space exploration for Pakistan’s bright future, asserting that these fields are key to positioning Pakistan among developed nations. Professor Ahsan Iqbal stressed that in today’s world, progress and prosperity depend on expertise in science and technology. He noted that nations that lead in science, technology, and modern research are the ones advancing on the path of development. Recalling the Islamic civilizations of the past, he mentioned how, when cities like Baghdad, Damascus, and Cordoba were centers of learning and research, Muslims led the world. However, once they distanced themselves from knowledge and research, their civilization faced decline. Ahsan Iqbal asserted that the future of the Muslim world lies in the revival of science and technology. The Federal Minister highlighted that space exploration and research have become critical components of global advancement. Referring to the achievements of the James Webb Space Telescope and the European Space Agency, he pointed out that today’s modern nations have made tremendous efforts to understand the mysteries of the universe through science and research. Unfortunately, no Muslim country currently possesses the capacity for space research. He expressed regret that no Muslim nation has gone beyond Earth’s orbit. Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that the Quran instructs humanity to explore and conquer the moon and the sun, and that it is the responsibility of the Muslim youth to advance in science and research in light of this directive. Professor Ahsan Iqbal stated that the world has entered the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, nanotechnology, and biotechnology are now standards of progress. He noted that only those nations with expertise in these technologies will lead global development in the future. Quoting Allama Iqbal’s verses, he encouraged the youth to think beyond the skies and dream big. The Federal Minister further maintained that Pakistan is one of the countries affected by climate change, and space technology can play an important role in addressing environmental challenges and natural disasters. With space technology, it is possible not only to assess the impact of climate on agriculture and productivity but also to make timely predictions about natural disasters, thus protecting valuable lives and property. Talking about importance of the space exploration and technology in the context of daily life, Ahsan Iqbal particularly mentioned innovations like Google Maps and aircraft navigation, explaining that space technology is now playing a vital role in almost every field, making our lives easier. He stated that future research in space will create new opportunities for humanity, such as new sources of energy or even the growth of human organs in space. In his speech, the Minister for Planning urged students to be ready for future responsibilities and to cultivate a passion for knowledge and research. He said that the younger generation must be provided with opportunities to advance in the fields of science and technology to ensure a bright future for Pakistan. Ahsan Iqbal appreciated the joint efforts of the Ministry of Planning and the Ministry of Education, stating that Space Week would be celebrated annually as a platform to educate the younger generation about space science and nurture their research skills. While concluding, the Minister said that connecting teachers and students with science and technology education and equipping them with modern knowledge is the guarantee of a bright future for Pakistan’s youth. He urged the youth to make science and research their ultimate goal and wave the flag of Pakistan in space. Ahsan Iqbal expressed confidence that today’s youth will play a significant role in making Pakistan one of the leading nations in the world.
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