Leading space sciences experts and academics as well as policymakers gathered at Institute of Space Technology (IST) in Islamabad to explore how space technology can transform Pakistan’s socio-economic landscape.
The National Space Symposium, titled “Sitaro se Agay Jahan Aur Bhi Hain,” was held at IST on January 24, 2025, under the theme “Harnessing Space Sciences and Technology for Socio-Economic Transformation in Pakistan.”
The symposium was organized by Pakistan’s National Space Agency SUPARCO in collaboration with IST.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhry, attended as the Chief Guest, alongside a host of distinguished participants including Mohammad Yousuf Khan, Chairman SUPARCO; Major General Amer Nadeem (Retd), Former Chairman SUPARCO; Ambassador Tahir Andarabi, Director General ACDIS Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan; Dr. Raashid Wali Janjua, Director IPRI; and Dr. Messam Abbas, CEO NaqCode Technologies.
Crucial role of Space technologies discussed
The symposium underscored the crucial role of space technologies in addressing Pakistan’s key national challenges, such as food security, climate change, disaster management, and urban planning. Space science applications, particularly satellite data, are being used to boost agricultural productivity, improve resource management, monitor environmental changes, and enhance governance.
The discussions also highlighted Pakistan’s aspirations, including its plans for lunar exploration, satellite constellations, and a future astronaut program, all aimed at strengthening national resilience and global competitiveness.
Pakistan’s National Center of GIS and Space Applications inaugurated
The symposium also marked the inauguration of the National Center of GIS and Space Applications (NCGSA), a joint initiative of IST and the Higher Education Commission (HEC). The center aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and practical applications, driving Pakistan’s transformation into a knowledge-driven economy.
As the event, participants expressed a shared resolve to make space technology an integral part of Pakistan’s development strategy, with a focus on utilizing space science for national growth and stability.
SUPARCO’s vision to position Pakistan as a Space Power
Addressing the gathering, Mohammad Yousuf Khan, Chairman of SUPARCO, reiterated the organization’s vision to establish Pakistan as a leading spacefaring nation. Despite fiscal constraints and technological challenges, SUPARCO remains committed to advancing Pakistan’s space ambitions.
“The economy of the future will rely heavily on technology,” said Ahsan Iqbal, stressing the importance of digitalization and innovation. He highlighted the government’s efforts through initiatives like the Uraan Pakistan program, which seeks to promote sustainable development and equitable growth across the country.
“To achieve sustainable development, collective efforts are essential. Modern research is the easiest pathway to growth, and for that, we must make national progress our foremost priority,” he remarked.
On January 17, 2025, Pakistan launched its first home-made Electro-Optical Satellite (EO-1) aboard China’s Long March-2D carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in the Gobi Desert.
The satellite uses electro-optical sensors to collect data and images of the Earth’s surface by detecting and measuring reflected sunlight or emitted radiation. SUPARCO officials said the PRSC-EO1 satellite will boost Pakistan’s ability to monitor and manage natural resources, respond to disasters and improve urban planning and agricultural development.
Minister stresses role of Space Sciences for national development
In his keynote address, Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the transformative potential of space sciences for the country’s development. He lauded SUPARCO’s contributions to space exploration and affirmed the government’s commitment to integrating space technologies into the nation’s development strategies, particularly to achieve the “Digital Pakistan” vision.
Ahsan Iqbal also underscored the pivotal role of research and innovation in driving national progress. He urged the youth to engage with new ideas and trends, calling them to contribute to innovative concepts that would propel Pakistan’s growth in the global technology space.