Islamabad: Federal Minister for Human Rights, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, today urged the strengthening of education, scientific research, and innovation across the Muslim world. He emphasized these areas as crucial to human rights, sustainable development, and shared prosperity during his address at the Inter-Islamic Forum for the Advancement of Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation. The event was organized by COMSTECH at its Secretariat in Islamabad.

According to Press Information Department, the forum gathered representatives from OIC institutions, diplomats, vice chancellors, scientists, scholars, and delegates from OIC Member States to discuss cooperation in higher education, scientific research, technological innovation, and knowledge-sharing.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of COMSTECH, welcomed the Federal Minister and congratulated Pakistan on hosting the 9th OIC Ministerial Conference on Women. He highlighted Islam’s intellectual heritage and the concept of “Ilm-un-Nafi'” (beneficial knowledge), reaffirming COMSTECH’s commitment to expanding research collaboration and innovation.

Senator Tarar, speaking as the chief guest, praised COMSTECH for its contributions to scientific cooperation through various initiatives and educational support for scholars from countries facing challenges. He underscored education as a fundamental human right and vital for empowering individuals and institutions.

The Minister also pointed out Pakistan’s constitutional commitment to education and its recent role in hosting the 9th OIC Ministerial Conference on Women. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to advancing human rights, women’s empowerment, education, and inclusive development in collaboration with OIC Member States.

The forum also featured addresses from prominent figures, including H.E. Mohamed Adan Khalif, Governor of Mandera County, Kenya, and H.E. Tuan Jaziri Alkaf, Senator of Malaysia. They emphasized the importance of academic partnerships, scientific research, and youth empowerment for sustainable development.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks and the presentation of a commemorative shield to Senator Tarar, followed by a group photograph of the participants.