The Department of Biological Sciences at International Islamic University Islamabad formally inaugurated the office of the Pakistan Biotechnology Students Society (PBSS) on campus, a step aimed at strengthening student-led scientific initiatives and innovation in biotechnology. The ceremony brought together university leadership, faculty and student representatives to mark a new phase in campus-based support for biotechnology students.
The event was attended by Professor Dr. Mushtaq Ahmed, Dean Faculty of Sciences, who served as Chief Guest, and Dr. Hafiz Ghufran Ahmad, Director Students’ Affairs, who attended as Guest of Honour. The proceedings were hosted by Dr. Asma Gul, Chairperson of the Department of Biological Sciences, and organized under the supervision of Dr. Bashir Ahmad, Associate Professor and founder and patron of PBSS.
PBSS founder Dr. Bashir Ahmad reflected on the society’s journey since its establishment in 2017, outlining its mission to promote academic excellence, cultivate a research culture and foster professional development among biotechnology students. He described PBSS as a bridge between academia, industry and society that encourages students to explore diverse career paths and contribute to Pakistan’s growing bioeconomy.
The society operates through dedicated forums such as the Bio-Readers Forum, Bio-Innovators Forum, Bio-Entrepreneurs Hub, Bio-Connect International Chapter and the Bio-Volunteers Network. Key initiatives under PBSS include the Annual Biotechnology Summit (BioSummit), a Biotech Career Expo & Job Fair, national Bio-Quiz and poster competitions, and public awareness campaigns that aim to boost participation, innovation and collaboration among emerging scientists.
Addressing participants, Dr. Mushtaq Ahmed commended the Department and the student community for launching the PBSS office, noting the important role of student societies in nurturing creativity, research orientation and teamwork. Dr. Hafiz Ghufran Ahmad praised the Department’s efforts to empower students and urged further expansion of PBSS activities at both national and international levels to enhance opportunities for young biotechnologists.
The inauguration concluded with the official opening of the PBSS office, a group photograph and an interaction session between faculty members and student representatives. The new office reaffirms the Department of Biological Sciences’ commitment to cultivating a new generation of biotechnologists and innovators in line with IIUI’s vision of excellence in education and research.
