ISLAMABAD, Sept. 12 (INP): A national seminar held here on Wednesday at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) to promote awareness about the safe and peaceful use of nuclear technology.

The seminar was arranged by Pakistan Nuclear Society (PNS) in collaboration with the AIOU. It specifically deliberated upon cyber security and radiation effects on Human Health. It was largely attended by researchers and academicians from various educational institutions.

It was presided over by the former chairman Pakistan Atomic Commission (PAC) Dr. Pervaiz Butt, while the Vice Chancellor AIOU Dr. Shahid Siddiqui was the chief guest.

The speakers including Mrs. Farhat Waqar Chief Scientist and Muhammad Toheed, senior official of PAC underlined the need of creating awareness among the general public about the peaceful application of nuclear technology and environmental safety.

Dr. Shahid Siddiqui urged the participants to lay special focus on promotion of research in their relevant disciplines. Terming education and knowledge as a major source of socio-economic development, he said the difference between the developed and developing countries is only the difference of knowledge.

He highlighted the concerted efforts of AIOU to turn the institution as a hub of research-based academic activities. Research must be relevant to the society and compatible to international standard, he asserted.

He assured that the AIOU will be extending all possible support to relevant institutions to keep the people well-aware of nuclear technology and its positive use for the country's socio-economic development.

Dr. Pervaiz Butt in his concluding remarks spoke about Pakistan’s achievements in the field of nuclear technology and its efforts to ensure its peaceful use for meeting energy’s requirements.

He appreciated PNS for creating awareness about the significance of new technology and its safe use, making it free of environmental hazards.  The nuclear technology developed by the Pakistani scientists also contributed well in health and other social sectors, he added.

Earlier, Dr. Syed Zafar Ilyas, Dean Sciences AIOU welcomed the participants and assured his support in achieving the objectives of the seminar.

INP/LK