Events

Date and Time: 7^th April 2025, 10:30 am to 01:00 pm Pakistan Time
Venue: COMSTECH Secretariat, G-5/2, Islamabad.

Flyer: Click Here

Introduction:

Drug discovery and development have entered a new era driven by cutting-edge technologies, innovative methodologies, and a deeper understanding of disease biology. The modern drug development pipeline integrates artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, high-throughput screening, and structure-based drug design to accelerate the identification and optimization of potential therapeutics.

With the increasing complexity of diseases and drug resistance, researchers are leveraging computational modeling, genomics, and personalized medicine to develop targeted and more effective treatments. AI-driven approaches allow for the rapid analysis of vast datasets, improving hit identification, lead optimization, and predictive modeling for drug efficacy and safety. Additionally, advances in biopharmaceuticals, gene therapies, and nanotechnology are transforming the way drugs are designed and delivered.

In this workshop, leading experts will discuss the latest breakthroughs in drug discovery and development, highlighting how modern technologies are shaping the future of medicine and therapeutic innovation.

Brief profile of the speakers:

1. Prof. Ehmke Pohl: https://www.durham.ac.uk/staff/ehmke-pohl/
2. Prof. Paul Denny:  https://www.durham.ac.uk/staff/p-w-denny/
                                                                                   

Program of the event: Click Here

Participation:

Registration Link: Click Here

Registration outcome will be shared through email, therefore, please give your valid email address.

Participants will receive certificates.

Contact persons,

Ms Khazima Muazim; Program Manager

khazima@comstech.org

Abstract

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a powerful analytical tool for exploring molecular structure and dynamics, with wide applications in chemistry, biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, and materials science. This COMSTECH Certificate Course aims to strengthen the theoretical understanding and practical skills of young researchers and professionals from OIC Member States. The course will enable participants to effectively apply NMR spectroscopy in their research and industrial projects, fostering scientific capacity and innovation across the OIC region.

Objectives

• To provide an understanding of the theoretical principles underlying NMR spectroscopy.
• To familiarize participants with the operation and use of NMR instruments.
• To provide an overview of data analysis and interpretation in NMR studies.
• To foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers from OIC member states.

Target Audience

Researchers, scientists, students, and professionals in:

• Chemistry and Biochemistry
• Pharmaceutical and Material Sciences
• Biotechnology and Molecular Biology
• Analytical and Industrial Research Laboratories

Participants from OIC Member States are particularly encouraged to apply.

Flyer: Click Here

Profile of Speakers:

Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary (H.I., S.I., T.I., Mustafa (PBUH) Prize Laureate)

Coordinator General, COMSTECH
Prof. Choudhary is a globally renowned scientist in natural product chemistry and structural biology, with extensive expertise in NMR-based molecular characterization. His leadership at COMSTECH has significantly advanced scientific cooperation and research capacity among OIC Member States.

Prof. Dr. Atia-tul-Wahab

Professor, H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi
Prof. Atia-tul-Wahab is an expert in NMR spectroscopy and natural product chemistry. Her research focuses on structural elucidation of bioactive molecules using advanced NMR techniques. She has conducted numerous workshops and training programs on analytical instrumentation and data interpretation.

Dr. Humaira Zafar

Assistant Professor, Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, ICCBS, University of Karachi
Dr. Humaira Zafar has authored 7 international publications in the field of enzyme inhibition. She has got training in the field of structural biology using NMR at University of Hamburg, Germany. Her focus is mainly on studying the protein-ligand interactions of therapeutically important enzymes using STD-NMR techniques.

Registration Link: Click Here

Mode: Hybrid (Physical + Online)
Dates: 24-27 March, 2026
Venue: COMSTECH Secretariat, Islamabad, Pakistan

Jointly organized by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH),  Standards and Metrology Institute for Islamic Countries (SMIIC) in collaboration with

 the Uzbek Agency for Technical Regulation (UzATR) and Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS), Kazakhstan

Venue: Uzbek Agency for Technical Regulation, Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Date: 12 – 16 May, 2025

Physical Participation: Closed
Virtual Participation: Open

Flyer: Click Here

Introduction

In view of the diversity of several products, including processed food and other items of daily use in the present day, authentication and confirmation of their Halal nature is a growing challenge globally. Beside the environmental contaminants, both biological and chemical, addition of non-halal ingredients, which is prohibited for Muslims, are a matter of concern.  In recent years, awareness about Halal food and products has increased due to the cross contamination of several industrial products in our daily life. However, with increasing globalization, many Islamic countries import these products (or ingredients) from places, which do not observe the Islamic religious laws. It is therefore, imperative for the Muslim countries to establish Halal testing laboratories, which will ensure the ‘Halal’ status of the consumer products.

COMSTECH, SMIIC and other OIC institutions/organizations have been mandated by the Abu Dhabi Declaration (Second OIC Summit on Science & Technology, June 2021) to develop the capacity of Least Developed Countries of the OIC relevant to Halal (Clause # 32). Earlier 3 trainings in different OIC regions i.e Africa (Uganda), Asia (Bangladesh) and North Africa (Morocco) has been successfully completed. The Forth version of the training is placed in Uzbekistan during 12-16 May covering the Central Asian OIC member countries.

Course Objectives

The objective of this training courses is to encourage the harmonization of Halal Standards used in the OIC Countries and internationally by aiding in the adoption and use of the OIC/SMIIC Halal Standards. The training course is designed to train the participants from Central Asian-OIC Member States regarding the procedures for adoption, implementation and use of the OIC/SMIIC Halal Food Standards, mainly:

1. OIC/SMIIC 1:2019 – General Requirements for Halal Food
2. Auditing of Testing Labs in line with OIC/SMIIC 35:2020– Conformity Assessment– General Requirements for the Competence of Laboratories Performing Halal Testing.
3. The Testing Procedures standards such as Test Method for detection of porcine in Food Products (meat, processed food and gelatin) which are being chosen at SMIIC TC1 Technical Committee for Halal food issues.
4. OIC/SMIIC 4 Halal Cosmetics – General Requirements
5. OIC/SMIIC 50-1: 2022 Halal Pharmaceuticals – Part 1 – General Requirements

The aim is to transfer knowledge and skills, and to develop the human capital, while bridging the knowledge gap and enlightening the compliance requirements set forth by the regulatory bodies in the OIC Countries.

Practical session: A practical session will be conducted for a limited number of selected participants to transfer hands-on knowledge in halal laboratory testing methods. 

Who Should Attend?

The training course is designed to address the interest of scientists, research scholars, government officials, statutory policymakers, enforcement officers, and food safety auditors in OIC/SMIIC Halal Products Standards and Testing.

Travel & Local Hospitality:

The organizers will cover the flight tickets and accommodation expenses (7 nights) from Category-1 countries as listed below to attend the training. Please also note that there is a limit of maximum 10 (ten) participants whose expenses will be borne by SMIIC, COMSTECH and IOFS. (Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Albania, Uganda, Pakistan, Türkiye)

 The training is also open to Category II countries as listed below. Limited funds are available to cover accommodation expenses of shortlisted participants from Category II countries. Participants are expected to cover the flight tickets from parent organizations. (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Thailand, Russian Federation). SMIIC and COMSTECH will arrange local hospitality for selected participants.

The organizers will arrange local hospitality for selected participants. Travel support will be provided to the speaker/resource persons only.

Selection Criteria:

• Chemists, Researchers and Test Specialists high level, no beginners
• At least 3 years of practical experience in Real-Time PCR
• Able to converse and write in the English language
• Hold a permanent position at their institute
• Daily work with the measuring equipment
• Good knowledge in GLP.
• Age between 27 – 45 years old
• Had not previously participated in any course under SMIIC and COMSTECH
• Number of participants is limited and selection is based on the relevancy of the
• Applicant’s job scope to the objective of the programme.

Registration Process:

1. For physical participation register at the following link:
2. For virtual participation register at the following link:  Click Here
3. Read instructions in the application form carefully and submit a properly filled form along with your CV.
4.  Selected candidates will be notified through email; hence, applicants are required to check their emails regularly.

Workshop Coordinators:

Muhammad Haris Akram
Program Manager
COMSTECH, Islamabad.
Email: haris@comstech.org
Phone: +92 51 9220681

Mr. Çağrı Cankurtaran
Specialist
SMIIC, Türkiye.
Email: cagri.cankurtaran@smiic.org
Phone: +90 532 561 63 93

By Dr. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kemal Güneş

TUBITAK ,Marmara Research Center

13^th March, 2025 (01:30 PM, Pakistan Standard Time)

Abstract: 

Although climate change has begun to show its effects in recent years, according to climate change scenarios, its main impact is expected to become more pronounced within the next decade. Freshwater resources are among the most vulnerable resources to a changing climate. As is well known, drinking water sources are prioritized in water allocation. Therefore, it is inevitable that pressures on these strategic resources will increase in the future. Drinking water sources not only serve as water supply points in their respective basins but also support biodiversity, agriculture, livestock farming, and, when sufficient, various industrial sectors. For this reason, the management of drinking water sources and their basins involves multidimensional protection and utilization strategies. These strategies can be categorized as follows: the impact of climate change scenarios on the studied lake or reservoir, determination of lake and reservoir water quality, surface runoff and pollution transport in the lake basin, hydrogeological studies, population projections within the basin, agricultural and livestock activities, industrial status, etc. By evaluating all these key aspects, scientifically grounded regulations are established for the management of the drinking water basin.

Keywords; Climate change, drinking water, basin management, protection plan

Target Audience:

This webinar is open to academicians, scientists, and general public from all the member OIC states and beyond.

Profile of the Speaker:

 Kemal Gunes graduated from Ankara University Faculty of Agriculture in 1988. He completed his MSc in 1992 at the same university with a study on “The Quality of Surface Waters in the Sakarya Delta” and his PhD in 2000 with research titled “Testing Natural Treatment Technologies for Recycling Domestic Wastewater in Agriculture under Turkey’s Conditions.” In 2003, he completed his postdoctoral research at the Florida State University College of Civil and Environmental Engineering on “Landfill Methane Reduction.” In the following years, he implemented numerous pilot-scale and full-scale projects on the treatment of domestic and agricultural return flows using constructed wetland technologies. Additionally, he managed dozens of projects focused on preparing plans for the protection of drinking water basins. He also worked on the recovery of valuable chemicals and continues his research on the impacts of climate change on water resources.

Poster of webinar:  Attached

Register at: Click Here

Procedure to join:

Zoom link for participation will be shared selected participants.

Address: COMSTECH Secretariat, 33-Constitution Avenue, G-5/2, Islamabad 
Phone No. : 92 51 9220681-3
Email: Khazima@comstech.org ; comstech@comstech.org

Venue: COMSTECH Secretariat, Islamabad (Online)

Date: February 25^th, 2026

Flyer: Click Here

Context

Plant species occupy an important place in human life, due to their usefulness in many areas, including food, health, industry, crafts, custom and tradition, etc. (Bognounou and Guinko, 2006; Yaovi et al., 2021). Approximately 60% of the world population, and 80% of the population of developing countries rely on traditional medicine, most often through the use of plants, to meet their primary healthcare needs (WHO, 2008). This dependence to traditional medicine is not only justified by the efficacy of medicinal plants due to their richness in secondary metabolites, but also as an alternative to the health care services of so-called modern medicine, whose costs are beyond reach (Kodio et al., 2023; Bangou et al., 2024).

In West Africa, over 80% of the population use medicinal plants for therapeutic purposes (WHO, 2020). The places where plant organs are harvested are varied and include domestic spaces, classified or unclassified forests, agricultural fields, individual or community groves (Ouoba et al., 2006; Vroh and Koné, 2021). Moreover, policies to promote the use of medicinal plants have tended to focus more on exploitation, and the over-exploitation of medicinal plants, leading to a reduction in biomass, could increase the risk of extinction. We can also add that climate change, in the absence of significant mitigation or adaptation efforts, will have profound negative effects on humanity and other species.

This is why this webinar aim to strengthen the management of natural resources, especially medicinal plants, by those involved in the use of plant species for therapeutic purposes.

Objectives:

OS 1: Training and raising participants’ awareness of strategies for safeguarding medicinal plants;

OS 2: Discuss how to optimize bioactive compounds in the exploitation of medicinal plants;

OS 3: Demonstrate the usefulness of sophisticated extraction devices in the exploitation of plant organs;

OS 4: Planting protected species of medicinal plants.

Target Public:

Participate in this training: Researchers in natural substances; Botanist; Pharmacologists; Phd Students; Traditional health practitioners; Researchers in Schools of Water and Forests;

Outcomes

• Establishment of a collaborative network with scientists at the University of Nazi BONI in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso;
• Discovery of sophisticated extraction methods for plant organs;
• Endangered medicinal plant species are planted and preserved.

Partners

University of NAZI BONI Bobo-Dioulasso (Burkina Faso)

OIC-Secretariat General

Registration Link: Click Here

Contact Persons:

Dr. Gautier Roko (oladele09@yahoo.fr ), and Dr. Akim Socohou (akim@comtech.org)

Zoom Meeting Link: Click Here

Speakers Profiles:

Date: 16, February 2026

Flyer: Click Here

Abstract:

Sudan is facing one of the most severe humanitarian and public health crises in its history. Ongoing conflict has disrupted health services, displaced millions of people, and created conditions that significantly increase the risk of vector-borne diseases and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Weakening disease surveillance, interrupted control programs, population movement, and limited access to clean water and sanitation have further intensified these risks.

This webinar will examine how the conflict in Sudan is reshaping the landscape of vector-borne and neglected tropical diseases, placing already vulnerable populations at even greater risk. It will highlight the direct and indirect impacts of the crisis on health systems, disease prevention efforts, and outbreak preparedness, while drawing attention to urgent gaps that require coordinated action.

Bringing together leading global experts, researchers, and public health professionals, the webinar will provide evidence-based insights and practical approaches to mitigating disease risks in conflict and fragile settings. Discussions will focus on policy-relevant strategies, innovative responses, and collaborative solutions that can strengthen resilience, protect communities, and support continuity of essential health services despite ongoing challenges.

Above all, the webinar aims to move the conversation forward from crisis to action by identifying pathways that promote recovery, resilience, and sustainable public health responses in Sudan and similar contexts worldwide.

Participants Registration link: Click Here 

Profile of Moderators:

Dr. Rasha Siddig Azrag Ahmed
Founder and Director of Vector Genetics and Control laboratory
Faculty of Science, University of Khartoum, Sudan
Research fellow of the IIE-SRF and SAR,
Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Science
University of Buffalo New York, USA

Dr. Rasha S. Azrag is the founder and Head of the Vector Genetics and Control Laboratory at the University of Khartoum, Sudan and currently a Research Fellow with the IIE–Scholar Rescue Fund and Scholars at Risk at the State University of New York at Buffalo, USA. Her research focuses on disease vector surveillance, the population genetics of mosquito vectors, and mosquito ecology in underdeveloped urban environments, with particular emphasis on adaptive traits that drive insecticide resistance and compromise the effectiveness of vector control interventions. A central aspect of her research is strengthening disease vector surveillance through an interdisciplinary One Health framework. Dr. Azrag has contributed peer-reviewed publications, led nationally funded research projects, and contributed significantly to capacity building through the training of public health professionals across Sudan. 

Prof. Dr. Heather Ferguson,
Professor of Medical Entomology and Disease Ecology
School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
University of Glasgow, UK.

Professor Dr. Heather M. Ferguson is an infectious disease ecologist at the University of Glasgow with over 20 years of experience in mosquito-borne diseases, particularly malaria. She holds a BSc from the University of Toronto, an MSc from the University of British Columbia, and a PhD from the University of Edinburgh, where she studied malaria vector–parasite interactions. After postdoctoral research in the UK and Tanzania, she joined the University of Glasgow in 2006 as a BBSRC David Phillips Research Fellow. Her research focuses on malaria vector ecology, mosquito surveillance and control, environmental change and disease transmission, and emerging vector-borne disease risks, with strong collaborations in Africa and the UK. She also evaluates the risks of emerging vector-borne diseases in Scotland and actively supports strengthening vector control capacity in endemic regions. Professor Ferguson maintains a longstanding collaboration with the Ifakara Health Institute as a Visiting Scientist and leads research groups in Infectious Disease Ecology and Host–Parasite Interactions, contributing significantly to evidence-based disease control strategies.

Profile of Speakers:  

Dr. Sara Azhari Hassan,
Director of the Communicable Disease Control Directorate,
Primary Healthcare Directorate,
Federal Ministry of Health, Sudan

Dr. Sara Azhari Hassan the Director of the Communicable Disease Control Directorate (DCD) at Sudan’s Federal Ministry of Health. In this pivotal role, she provides strategic oversight for national programs targeting Malaria, HIV, TB, and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).

With 8 years of specialized expertise in communicable disease and 3 years in programs management and a foundational tenure in primary healthcare setting and Sudan health system, Dr. Sara is a distinguished expert in disease-fighting strategies, strategic planning, and large-scale intervention management. Her academic credentials include an MPH (master degree in public health), specialized training through the Intermediate Field Epidemiology Training Program (IFETP/EMPHNET), and a bachelor’s degree in medicine and surgery (MBBS) from Ahfad University for Women.

Dr. Hamoda Toto,
Directorate General of Global Health
&
Deputy Manager of GF-PMU
Federal Ministry of Health
&
Former director of IVM department,
Federal Ministry of Health Sudan.

Dr. Hmooda Toto Kafy is a medical entomologist and vector control specialist with a BSc in Public and Environmental Health from the University of Khartoum (1999), an MSc in Biology and Control of Disease Vectors from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom (2008), and a PhD in Medical Entomology from Universiti Sains Malaysia (2019).

Since November 2022, he has served as Deputy Manager of the Global Fund Project Management Unit (GF–PMU) in the Directorate General of Global Health, FMoH. From 2013 to 2019, he headed the Integrated Vector Management Department, FMoH. Previously, from 2009 to 2012, he served as Head of the Integrated Vector Management Unit and Deputy Manager of the National Malaria Control Programme (NMCP), FMoH. From 2004 to 2007, he was Head of the Integrated Vector Management Unit, NMCP, FMoH, and from 2001 to 2003, Head of the Vector Control Unit, NMCP, FMoH. He began his career as a Field Supervisor with the Malaria Control Programme, State Ministry of Health, Khartoum State, from 1999 to 2001.

Since 20 May 2020, Dr. Hmooda Toto Kafy has been a Technical Support Senior Specialist with the Country & Regional Support Partner Committee (CRSPC), RBM Partnership to End Malaria, working on a home-based arrangement with significant travel responsibilities. He has been a member of the Technical Advisory Group on the Global Integrated Arboviruses Initiative at WHO Headquarters since 2021. He is a member of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH) since 2014, the Pan-African Mosquito Control Association (PAMCA) since 2013, and the Roll Back Malaria Vector Control Working Group (RBM-VCWG) since 2006.

Dr. Hmooda Toto Kafy has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals on medical entomology and vector control. Since 2022, he has been a co-investigator of the project “Controlling Emergent Anopheles stephensi in Ethiopia and Sudan (CEASE)” and is leading the entomology component of the CEASE project in Sudan.

Prof. Dr. Ahmed Fahal,
Founder & Director of the WHO
Collaborating Centre on Mycetoma

Professor Dr. Ahmed Hassan Fahal, MBBS, FRCS, FRCSI, FRCS(G), MD, MS, FRCP (London), FRCPath. Professor Fahal, is a distinguished Professor of Surgery at the University of Khartoum, Sudan, and a global authority on mycetoma and tropical surgery.

Prof. Fahal is the founding Director of the WHO collaborating Centre on Mycetoma (MRC) at the University of Khartoum, which has grown into a leading international center for mycetoma clinical care, research, education, and advocacy. Under his leadership, mycetoma has been recognized as a neglected tropical disease by the World Health Organization, a major milestone in global health. Prof. Ahmed Hassan Fahal has received numerous prestigious national and international awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to surgery, tropical medicine, mycetoma research, and scientific leadership. His honors include the Donald Mackay Medal from the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene for excellence in tropical health, the Knighthood of Palmes Académiques from the Republic of France and the Knighthood of Merit from the Republic of Italy, and election as a Fellow of the Third World Academy of Sciences and the African Academy of Sciences. At home, he has received multiple awards from the University of Khartoum.

He has held influential leadership roles in medical education and research administration, including Director of the Educational Development Centre, Founding Director of the Self-Evaluation and Quality Enhancement Administration, Academic Secretary of the University of Khartoum, President of the Scientific Research and Innovation, Ministry of Higher Education (Sudan), and advisor to the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. 

Prof. Fahal has an extensive publication record with hundreds of peer-reviewed articles in international journals, book chapters, clinical guidelines, and educational materials that have shaped the field of tropical surgery and mycetoma research worldwide. He is widely recognized for his contributions to clinical care, policy, and capacity building, and he serves on multiple national and international scientific committees and editorial boards.

Prof. Dr. Maowia M. Mukhtar
Bioscience Research Institute Sudan
&
EDCTP Senior Fellow

Prof. Maowia Mohamed Mukhtar (PhD, Cornell University, USA) is a distinguished Professor of Immunology and a leading expert in immunology and molecular biology of tropical diseases at the Bioscience Research Institute, Sudan. He has held several senior academic and leadership positions, including Director of the Institute of Endemic Diseases (2003–2006) and long-standing Head of the Department of Molecular Biology, where he has guided research strategy, postgraduate training, and laboratory development.

He is a member of the technical advisory committee World Health Organization/ Tropical Diseases Research (WHO/ TDR) for Capacity Research Strengthening and a senior Fellow, European Developing Countries Clinical Trial Partnership (EDCTP).His research spans leishmaniasis, tuberculosis, malaria, onchocerciasis, schistosomiasis, measles, and emerging and re-emerging infections, with particular emphasis on host–pathogen interactions, immune correlates of protection, molecular epidemiology, and the development and evaluation of diagnostics biomarkers of neglected tropical diseases. Prof. Mukhtar has played a pivotal role in field-based and laboratory-based studies that directly inform public health policy and disease control programs in Sudan and East Africa.

Prof. Mukhtar has led or co-led numerous internationally funded research projects, supported by organizations such as WHO/TDR, NIH, EDCTP, FIND, ICGEB, DFID, and the European Union. He has extensive clinical trial experience, including Phase I–III evaluations of diagnostics and therapeutics for visceral leishmaniasis and other endemic diseases. His work has contributed to the validation of point-of-care tests and improved access to diagnosis in resource-limited settings.

In addition to his research achievements, Prof. Mukhtar is highly regarded for his commitment to capacity building and mentorship. He has supervised many MSc and PhD students, many of whom now hold academic, clinical, and leadership positions in Sudan and internationally. He has also served on national ethical committees and global health advisory boards, contributing to research governance, policy development, and regional research strengthening.

Prof. Mukhtar has published extensively in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and continues to advocate for equitable access to research outputs, particularly for communities most affected by neglected tropical diseases.

Contact Information:

Md. Rakibul Hasan
Junior Program Manager,
Email: jpmrakib@comstech.org
Phone No. : 92 51 9220681-3
Fax : 92 51 9211115, 9220265, 9205264
COMSTECH Secretariat, 33-Constitution Avenue, G-5/2, Islamabad, Pakistan    

Date: 14^th February 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Pakistan Time)

Registration Date has been extended Upto 08^thFebruary-2026

Registration link: Click Here

COMSTECH Online Seminar
“Promoting Cancer Awareness & Advocacy for Radiation Therapy Technologies and Medical Physics in OIC Countries”
14^th February 2026 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Pakistan Time)

2:00 – 2:05 PM
Opening & Recitation of the Holy Quran

2:05 – 2:15 PM
Welcome & Opening Remarks
Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General, COMSTECH

2:15 – 2:20 PM
Moderator’s Introduction & Session Framing
Dr. Syed Javaid Khurshid, Consultant, Science Comm. & Diplomacy, COMSTECH

2:20 – 3:05 PM Talk 1:
“Advancing Cancer Awareness and Early Detection Strategies in OIC Countries” Speaker: Dr. Nadeem Abbasi (AKUH)

3:05 – 3:50 PM-Talk 2:
“Radiation Therapy Technologies and Strengthening Medical Physics Capacity” Speaker: Dr. Asghar H. Asghar

3:50 – 4:00 PM
Q&A and Closing Remarks

Community education through universities and research capacity building is a strategic pathway toward sustainable social, economic, and health advancement. Strengthening local scientific expertise enables universities to serve as catalysts for community empowerment, innovation, and evidence-based solutions to local challenges.

Within the community education framework, natural product development is a key driver of community capacity building, particularly in biodiversity-rich regions such as Africa. When strategically utilized, local natural resources can support community-based health initiatives, strengthen local industries, and promote sustainable livelihoods. Yet, gaps in advanced analytical skills and structured training continue to limit the translation of this potential into tangible benefits for communities.

To address this gap, OIC-COMSTECH, WUACD (World University Association for Community Development) of Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia, and Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria, are jointly organizing a two-day international workshop aimed at strengthening analytical skills and institutional capacity as a foundation for community development in African universities and related institutions.

This international workshop is designed not only to enhance technical competence in natural product utilization but also to position universities as key drivers of community-oriented research, knowledge transfer, and sustainable development. By strengthening analytical skills and fostering international collaboration, the program supports the broader mission of empowering academic institutions to contribute meaningfully to local and regional development.

Workshop Objectives

• To strengthen university-led community development through enhanced research capacity in natural product sciences
• To build technical competencies that support community-based health, pharmaceutical, and bioresource initiatives
• To enhance understanding of modern extraction, separation, and purification techniques relevant to local resources
• To develop practical skills in chromatographic and spectroscopic analytical methods
• To promote international academic collaboration focused on sustainable and community-responsive research

Target Participants

• Academic staff and researchers engaged in community-oriented research in chemistry, pharmacy, biology, and related fields
• Postgraduate and senior undergraduate students with an interest in applied and community-based research
• Laboratory personnel supporting research and community service programs

Workshop Structure and Community Education Orientation

The workshop is structured over two days, combining scientific knowledge sharing with applied capacity building aimed at strengthening the role of universities in community development.

Day 1: Opening Ceremony & Community-Oriented Scientific Orientation (Hybrid)

Day 1 establishes a shared understanding of how natural product research can support community development and sustainable scientific ecosystems. The sessions are open to both onsite and virtual participants to maximize access and inclusivity.

Key Activities:

Opening Ceremony
Formal inauguration with welcoming remarks from the host institution and organizing partners, highlighting the role of universities in advancing community development through research and international collaboration.

Pre-Training Assessment (Pre-Test)
Participants will complete an online pre-test to assess baseline knowledge and identify capacity-building needs.
Note: The pre-test will be administered via Google Forms.

Guest Lecture: Integrated Metabolism and Its Community Relevance
Delivered by Prof. Dr. Ni Nyoman Tri Puspaningsih (Universitas Airlangga), this lecture will discuss integrated metabolism, its role in understanding bioactive compounds, and its relevance to community health, traditional medicine, and sustainable biomedical applications.

Day 2: Capacity Building in Natural Product Research for Community Impact

Day 2 focuses on strengthening practical and analytical skills that can be directly applied in university laboratories to support community-based research, local innovation, and sustainable utilization of natural resources. This day is open to both onsite and virtual participants.

Core Scientific and Community-Relevant Focus Areas:

Secondary Metabolite Extraction Techniques
Principles and practical considerations in extracting secondary metabolites from local natural sources, emphasizing optimization strategies relevant to community-based research and resource efficiency.

Chromatographic Methods
Foundations and applications of key chromatographic techniques, including:

• Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC)
• Gravity Column Chromatography (GCC)
• Vacuum Liquid Chromatography (VLC)

Structure Elucidation of Natural Products
Introduction to spectroscopic techniques essential for validating bioactive compounds used in community health and applied research:

• UV–Visible (UV–Vis) Spectroscopy
• Infrared (IR) Spectroscopy
• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy

Sessions will be delivered by experienced resource persons from Universitas Airlangga, integrating scientific rigor with applied perspectives relevant to community development. The training aims to enhance research quality, promote responsible use of local biodiversity, and support sustainable community-focused research initiatives.

(Note: Day 3 will consist of hands-on laboratory training sessions for physical participants.)

Registration and Participation Modalities

Participation Mode: Hybrid (Onsite and Virtual)

Virtual Participation Registration: Click Here

Physical Participation Registration (Primarily for participants from Africa): Click Here

Travel & Hospitality (Physical Participants):
Participants will arrange their own travel. Bayero University will provide local hospitality, including accommodation, meals, and local transportation, for confirmed onsite participants.

Workshop Coordinators

Muhammad Haseeb Ahmad
Program Officer, OIC-COMSTECH
Email: Haseeb.ahmad@comstech.org

Dr. Yuni Sari Amalia
World University Association for Community Development (WUACD), Indonesia

Prof. Aminu Mohamad
Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria

Date: 03-04 February, 2026

Flyer: Click Here

Registration link: Click Here

Abstract:

The edible oil industry is essential to global food security, nutrition, and economic development. This two-day lecture series organized by OIC-COMSTECH will highlight recent advances in industrial extraction and processing technologies that enhance oil yield, quality, safety, and sustainability. The program will cover modern mechanical and solvent-based extraction methods, emerging green technologies, process optimization, quality control, and compliance with international food safety standards. Delivered by a leading expert, the lecture series aims to bridge research and industry practices, offering practical insights for researchers and professionals while promoting innovation and sustainable development in the edible oil sector.

Objective:

The objective of the 2-day Lecture Series on “Recent Advances in the Industrial Extraction of Edible Oil and Processing Techniques” at COMSTECH is to provide useful knowledge to the young researchers, students, representatives of industries, members of government organizations and policy makers for the further research and development.

🎯 Targeted Audience

• Food Science, Public Health, and Health Sciences professionals
• Chemical Engineering, Agricultural Sciences, and Industrial Biotechnology researchers
• Research Assistants and Early-Career Researchers
• Edible Oil Industry Professionals and Processing Technologists

Prof. Dr. Syed Tufail Hussain Shah
Professor and Former Director
National Centre of Excellence in Analytical Chemistry (NCEAC) University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan

Profile Of Speakers:

Prof. Dr. Syed Tufail Hussain Shah is a distinguished Professor and Director at the National Centre of Excellence in Analytical Chemistry (NCEAC), University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and completed postdoctoral research at McGill University, Canada. With over three decades of teaching, research, and industrial experience, Dr. Shah has made significant contributions to analytical and industrial chemistry, particularly in edible oil processing and quality analysis.

Before entering academia, he held senior leadership roles in the vegetable oilseed and edible oil industry, including Chief Chemist, Production Manager, and General Manager. His broad research interests span analytical method development, spectroscopy, chromatographic techniques, process optimization, and food quality assurance.

 Dr. Shah has authored more than 225 peer-reviewed research articles, edited books and book chapters, and presented at numerous international and national conferences. He is Editor-in-Chief of the Pakistan Journal of Analytical and Environmental Chemistry and serves on multiple editorial boards. His work has earned him prestigious awards including national research productivity honors, best university teacher accolades, and gold medals from scientific bodies.

Dr. Shah’s leadership and expertise bridge academic research and industrial practice, making him an influential figure in analytical sciences and edible oil technology

Prof.Dr. Hüseyin KARA Ph. D
Professor in Analytical Chemistry
Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry Selçuk University, Türkiye

Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Kara is a senior Professor of Chemistry at Selçuk University, Türkiye, with over three decades of academic, research, and leadership experience. An expert in analytical and food chemistry, his work focuses on chromatographic techniques, edible oil refining, food quality and safety, environmental analysis, and supercritical fluid extraction. He has led and contributed to more than 30 national and international research projects, published over 100 SCI-indexed articles, and supervised numerous MSc and PhD students. Prof. Dr. Kara has also served as Vice-Rector, Dean, and Founding Dean at leading Turkish universities, and continues to contribute to academia and industry through teaching, research, and consultancy.

Program Overview: