The Department of Biological Sciences at International Islamic University Islamabad inaugurated the PBSS office on campus in a ceremony that highlighted student-led innovation in biotechnology. The new PBSS office is expected to strengthen ties between students, academic mentors and industry partners while promoting hands-on research and career development.
The ceremony was attended by Professor Dr Mushtaq Ahmed, Dean Faculty of Sciences, who served as chief guest, and Dr Hafiz Ghufran Ahmad, Director Students’ Affairs, as guest of honour. The event was hosted by Dr Asma Gul, Chairperson of the Department of Biological Sciences, and coordinated under the supervision of Dr Bashir Ahmad, Associate Professor and founder and patron of PBSS.
Dr Bashir Ahmad reflected on the society’s journey since its establishment in 2017 and outlined the mission behind the PBSS office: to cultivate academic excellence, embed a research culture and support professional growth among biotechnology students. He described the society as a practical bridge between academia, industry and society, enabling students to pursue diverse career paths and contribute to Pakistan’s bioeconomy.
The society operates through multiple forums including the Bio-Readers Forum, Bio-Innovators Forum, Bio-Entrepreneurs Hub, Bio-Connect International Chapter and the Bio-Volunteers Network. Signature initiatives managed through the PBSS office include the Annual Biotechnology Summit BioSummit, a Biotech Career Expo and Job Fair, national Bio-Quiz and poster competitions, and public awareness campaigns aimed at increasing scientific literacy.
Speaking to attendees, Dr Mushtaq Ahmed praised the initiative and emphasised the importance of student societies in fostering creativity, research orientation and collaborative skills. Dr Hafiz Ghufran Ahmad commended the department’s efforts to empower students and urged expansion of PBSS activities at national and international levels to further elevate student opportunities.
The programme concluded with the formal opening of the PBSS office, a group photograph and a lively interaction between faculty members and student representatives. The new office reinforces the Department of Biological Sciences’ commitment to developing the next generation of biotechnologists and innovators in line with IIUI’s vision for excellence in education and research.
