IST kicks off 'World Space Week' in Islamabad

The Institute of Space Technology (IST) inaugurated World Space Week (WSW) 2024 on Tuesday, marking the commencement of a three-day celebration dedicated to space Science, Technology, and innovation.

The event was launched under the global theme of "Space and Climate Change," underscoring the crucial role of space technology in understanding, monitoring, and addressing the effects of climate change on Earth.

The ceremony featured the Vice Chancellor of IST, Major General Rehan Abdul Baqi (R), who praised the National Center of GIS and Space Applications (NCGSA) for its essential role in organizing the event.

He acknowledged NCGSA’s continuous efforts to advance space Science Education in Pakistan and noted that IST has consistently celebrated World Space Week for 19 consecutive years, fostering a legacy of space awareness and innovation in the country.

In his address, the Vice-Chancellor highlighted the multitude of environmental and climatic challenges facing the world today, asserting that space technology offers invaluable solutions to better understand and mitigate these changes.

"Through the use of satellites, remote sensing, and data analysis, we can monitor the Earth’s atmosphere, detect changes in weather patterns, and understand the repercussions of climate change on ecosystems," he stated.

Addressing young participants from schools and colleges, he emphasized, "You are the future of this nation, and we all look up to you to shape the future of not just Pakistan, but the entire world".

"Your passion, innovation, and determination are what will drive us towards a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow."

IST is committed to equipping the youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to utilize space-based technologies for a sustainable and resilient future.

This year’s World Space Week at IST has seen unprecedented participation, with over 2,000 participants from more than 45 institutions representing over ten cities across Pakistan.

The event is supported by over 45 space ambassadors and more than 50 adjudicators, all collaborating to inspire and engage the next generation of space scientists and enthusiasts.

Additionally, over 100 dedicated students from IST are actively managing and organizing the event to ensure a smooth and enriching experience for all attendees.

The three-day celebration features a variety of interactive activities, including competitions, hands-on workshops, and project displays.

More than 75 modules have been meticulously curated to cater to the diverse interests of participants, from space science enthusiasts to aspiring engineers and researchers.

The event aims to inspire students to think creatively about how space Technology can be utilized to combat climate change, whether through monitoring deforestation, predicting natural disasters, or promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

World Space Week 2024 is being celebrated under the patronage of the National Center of GIS and Space Applications (NCGSA), a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Planning Development and Special Initiatives and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan.