STEM Talent Search project launched in Karachi with NED University and Lok Sahayata, attended by academicians, students, and people from various fields.

The national anthem and the Holy Quran were recited to begin the event, which was then followed by project briefings and introductory videos.

On this occasion, renowned physicist Dr. Pervaiz Hoodbhai said in his address that if we avoid changing the system, the nation will lag behind in the race for development.

The promotion of science and technology is indispensable to make the youth of Pakistan competitive at the global level.

Citing the example of Nobel laureate scientist Dr. Abdul Salam, he said that we should rise above religious narrow-mindedness and be proud of our scientific achievements.

Instead of hesitating to mention great scientists, we should be proud of their services. Chairman of Lok Sahayata Trust Syed Pir Muhammad Shah said that giving Pakistan’s children a prominent place in the world through research and inventions is the need of the hour.

We want to create such a system that our youth get skills and employment opportunities.

NED University Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Tufail and Pro Vice Chancellor Dr. Noman Ahmed also addressed the ceremony and termed this initiative as a milestone in promoting scientific pursuit and innovation in Pakistan.

The speakers said that Pakistan desperately needs to provide such platforms to nurture the creative talents and scientific inclinations of the young generation so that the country can be led toward a knowledge-based economy.

An online portal launch and live demo were also presented on the occasion, through which universities across Pakistan and Pakistani students studying abroad will be able to submit their scientific ideas for three months.

These ideas will be evaluated by a panel of academics, scientists, and industry experts, and the selected candidates will be included in an eight-month mentorship program after interviews, where they will be guided by experts.

In August 2026, Karachi will host a national-level science and engineering expo as the series' grand conclusion. There, exceptional innovations will be showcased and accessible to the general public, students, educators, and the business community.

During the fair, great prizes will also be given, including Rs. 1 million and a trophy for the student and his university who won the first position, Rs. 500,000 and a trophy for the second position, and Rs. 250,000 and a trophy for the third position.

At the end of the ceremony, a group photo was taken, and commemorative shields were distributed among the participants, while experts described this initiative as a historic step in highlighting the scientific talents of the youth.