PAF-IAST Hosts High-Level Academic Delegation from Bangladesh to Strengthen Bilateral Academic Collaboration
The Pak-Austria Fachhochschule: Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (PAF-IAST) had the privilege of hosting a high-level academic delegation from the People’s Republic of Bangladesh on Saturday, 16 May 2026. The visit marked an important step toward strengthening bilateral academic cooperation, promoting knowledge exchange, and exploring collaborative opportunities in research, innovation, and higher education between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
The delegation was led by Prof. Dr. Mamun Ahmed, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Bangladesh, and included distinguished vice chancellors, senior academicians, and officials from leading universities across Bangladesh.
The delegation was warmly received by Prof. Dr. Mohammad Mujahid, Rector PAF-IAST, along with Dr. Nasser Ali Khan, senior university leadership, faculty members, and university officials. The visit formally commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran followed by the national anthems of Pakistan and Bangladesh, reflecting the spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and academic solidarity between the two brotherly nations.
During the welcome address and institutional presentation, the Rector highlighted PAF-IAST’s vision and its unique model of applied sciences and technology education. He emphasized the university’s commitment to innovation-driven learning, industry-oriented research, academic excellence, and international collaboration. The delegation was introduced to PAF-IAST’s state-of-the-art laboratories, modern research facilities, and emerging technology initiatives that are contributing to the advancement of science and technology education in the region.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Dr. Mamun Ahmed appreciated the remarkable progress and modern academic ecosystem established at PAF-IAST. He acknowledged the institution’s strong focus on applied sciences, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, engineering innovation, and industry-academia linkages. He also expressed keen interest in fostering future academic partnerships and collaborative initiatives between higher education institutions of Bangladesh and Pakistan.
As part of the visit, the delegation toured several advanced facilities at PAF-IAST, including engineering laboratories, biotechnology and health sciences laboratories, the Business Incubation Center (BIC), and the Center for Artificial Intelligence (SPCAI). During the tour, the guests were briefed on flagship research projects, student-led innovations, startup initiatives, and entrepreneurial activities being undertaken at the university.
The visit also provided an opportunity for both sides to discuss future avenues of cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Discussions focused on potential student and faculty exchange programs, joint research projects, innovation partnerships, academic networking, and institutional collaborations aimed at strengthening regional academic and scientific cooperation.
The Bangladeshi delegation included senior representatives from leading universities, including the University of Rajshahi, University of Chittagong, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, North South University, State University of Bangladesh, University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, and Daffodil International University, alongside officials from the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh.
The visit concluded with a networking lunch hosted by the Rector, providing an opportunity for meaningful interaction and dialogue among academic leaders from both countries.
PAF-IAST reaffirmed its commitment to promoting international academic engagement and building impactful partnerships that contribute to the advancement of science, technology, innovation, and higher education across the region.
