Prof. Choudhary emphasized critical importance of techniques like positron emission tomography, CT oncology, hybrid imaging, and advanced radionuclide therapies in cancer treatment.
COMSTECH, in collaboration with the Pakistan Nuclear Society (PNS) and Pakistan Society of Nuclear Medicine (PSNM), inaugurated a significant two-day international workshop focusing on ‘Advances in Nuclear Medicine and its Applications.’ The event is scheduled to take place from September 19 to 20 at the COMSTECH Secretariat.
The opening session of the workshop saw the esteemed presence of Prof. Dr. Naseem Irfan, Rector of the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), who graced the occasion as the chief guest. Prof. Naseem provided valuable insights into the evolution of human resource development within the realms of nuclear medicine research and development in Pakistan.
He highlighted the pivotal role played by PIEAS and the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) in training doctors and medical professionals in the field of nuclear medicine and diagnostics. Prof. Naseem emphasized that PAEC extends state-of-the-art cancer treatment to patients across Pakistan, ensuring accessibility through its extensive network of institutions at a highly subsidized cost.
He further mentioned that international students are also welcome to pursue studies in nuclear medicine and diagnostics at PIEAS.
The Coordinator General of COMSTECH, Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, extended a warm welcome to the participants and underscored the workshop’s significance in showcasing current advancements in science and technology within the domain of nuclear medicine.
He expressed gratitude to the distinguished speakers from Turkey, Bangladesh, Kuwait, and Pakistan for dedicating their valuable time to contribute to the workshop.
Prof. Choudhary emphasized the critical importance of techniques like positron emission tomography, CT oncology, hybrid imaging, and advanced radionuclide therapies in cancer treatment. He stressed the need to familiarize clinical practitioners, medical oncologists, and nuclear medicine researchers with these cutting-edge developments.
Furthermore, Prof. Choudhary highlighted COMSTECH’s commitment to directing resources towards areas where science and technology can effectively address the needs of OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) states. This includes tackling challenges related to underdevelopment, healthcare, education, and food security.
The workshop featured lectures by international experts from Turkey, Kuwait, and Bangladesh, along with local experts. Over 150 clinical practitioners, oncologists, researchers, and nuclear medicine students and technologists attended the event in person.
Additionally, approximately 500 practitioners from various OIC states participated online. The opening session was also attended by ambassadors and diplomats from different OIC member states.
Prof. Dr. S. Khurshid Hasanain, Advisor at COMSTECH, served as the focal person for the organizing committee, while Dr. Shazia Fatima, Director of the Karachi Institute of Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine (KIRAN), led the program’s technical committee.