The innovative ideas and concepts, the imperative outcomes of research, help in addressing the demands of the diverse and ever-changing trends of today's economy and provide further impetus for creative thinking. The creative process generates new ideas, stimulates development of new methodologies for testing these ideas, and engenders the practical applications of the findings for the needs of the industry and the economy.
I am very proud that in Pakistan institutions such as SZABIST are helping to create a culture of research. Once our students join the professions of their choosing, this skill of undertaking research will provide an empirical basis for their policy and decision making The effectiveness of research and its benefits can rise manifold if it is conducted in a collaborative environment. Hence, whenever possible, SZABIST conducts its conferences in association with other reputable institutions.
SZABIST devotes significant resources in conducting state-of-the-art academic, scientific, and technological research. The Founding Chancellor, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, envisioned a well educated and progressive Pakistan and believed in investing heavily in research to make a difference in the lives of Pakistani citizens.
In 2002, the institute held its first bi-annual National Research Conference (NRC) and to-date has conducted eighteen NRCs. In addition, in 2011, the institute launched its first International Research Conference (IRC) and is now holding its second IRC. In order to disseminate its research output, SZABIST publishes two journals; Journal of Independent Studies and Research for Management, and Journal of Independent Studies and Research for Computing. In addition, proceedings of the conferences are also regularly published. At SZABIST, students are strongly encouraged to conduct research both as part of their studies and also to hone their analytical skills. To ensure the integrity of the research, SZABIST has a very well articulated plagiarism policy, peer review process, and strict oversight by external experts.
SZABIST's commitment to research is further exhibited by the current set-up of the purpose built research labs and departments at the institute. The institute has a Center for Renewable Energy Research (CRER) which aims to develop commercially viable energy resources in wind, solar, and biomass. In addition, a Stem Cell Research Center (SCRC) has been established with the objective of understanding the development and behaviour of cancer cells and focuses on creating cures for many diseases. Moreover, a Sustainable Development Research Center (SDRC) exists at the institute to develop policies and helps promote developments in renewable energy research.
SZABIST also has a strong Institutional Research Department (IR) which conducts research on various operations and aspects of the institute. The aim of IR's research is to ensure adherence to high quality educational standards, and providing empirical support to policy making by the Management and the Board of Trustees of the institute. In addition, the IR department carries out various surveys and prepares their individual analytical reports which provide strategic support to the Management at SZABIST. Moreover, IR has a vital role in producing various publications of SZABIST such as the Research and Development Annual Report and SZABIST Trust Annual Report.
Given the importance that the institute places on research, SZABIST plans to continue its journey of contributing to the research field and fulfilling the vision of its Founding Chancellor. I wish the participants of the conference great success!