The National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) has launched a new company aimed at promoting advancements in science and technology, officials from the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T) informed the Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology on Wednesday.

The newly established company will operate as a corporate body, inviting international experts to collaborate on achieving its objectives. The government has appointed a serving general of the Armed Forces to lead the company under the Science and Technology Division. The institution’s office will be based at NUST and will function as a research and development agency focused on driving scientific progress in Pakistan.

According to the Secretary of Science and Technology, the company was registered about a month ago, and efforts are underway to form its board. During the meeting, committee members emphasized the need to prioritize the establishment of the company’s board and legislative framework to ensure its effective operation.

Concerns Over Delays in Digitalization
The committee also discussed the ongoing digitalization of the Pakistan Standards Quality Control Authority (PSQCA), which has yet to fully implement a digitized fine payment system. Expressing frustration over the delays, the committee warned that failure to complete the process within two months could lead to further complications.

Food Safety and Misleading Advertisements
Members of the committee raised concerns about misleading advertisements for milk substitutes and the sale of unsafe food products, including poisoned pickles. They urged authorities to take stricter action to ensure food safety and protect consumers from harmful products.

Staff Rightsizing and Utilization
The meeting concluded with discussions on the potential merging of the Ministry of Science’s staff with other divisions, as recommended by the Rightsizing Committee. However, the ministry argued that its technical staff would be better utilized in science-related fields, rather than being transferred to unrelated divisions.

The establishment of the new company at NUST is seen as a significant step toward fostering innovation and scientific development in Pakistan, while the committee’s discussions highlighted the need for greater efficiency and accountability in other areas of the ministry’s operations.