The Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) and the Department of Education at the Virtual University of Pakistan, in collaboration with the British Council, successfully hosted a prestigious two-day International Conference on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Education at COMSTECH in Islamabad on May 15th and 16th. The conference was part of the British Council STEM Education Project and aimed to promote innovation and excellence in STEM education across Pakistan.

The conference was graced by eminent figures including Dr. Naveed A. Malik, former Rector of Virtual University, who served as Guest of Honour; Dr. Shahid Baig, former Chairperson of the Pakistan Science Foundation, as Chief Guest; and Prof. Dr. Mehmood Ul Hasan, former Vice-Chancellor of AIOU, who delivered an insightful keynote address. Rector of VUP, Prof. Dr. Arshad Saleem commended Dr. Faisal Tehseen Shah, Controller of Examinations, and the Department of Education for their efforts in organizing the event in collaboration with the British Council.

The conference featured presentations of 45 research papers covering a wide range of topics within STEM education, showcasing the latest advancements and research findings in the field. Dr. Mukhtar Mehmood, Vice-Chancellor of National Skills University, and Zulfiqar Ali Qazal Bash from the Ministry of Education were among the notable attendees on the first day.

The conference also featured several competitive events, including Best Paper, Best Poster, and an All Pakistan Competition, providing a platform for participants to showcase their work and innovations in STEM education. Winners of the Best Poster competition were awarded cash prizes: Rs. 20,000 for first place, Rs. 15,000 for second place, and Rs. 10,000 for third place.

The event concluded with a ceremonial distribution of souvenirs to guests and participants, marking the successful collaboration between the Virtual University and the British Council in advancing STEM education initiatives in Pakistan. This conference not only highlighted the importance of STEM education but also reinforced Pakistan's commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and academic excellence.

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