Islamabad — The Institute of Space Technology (IST) has inaugurated World Space Week (WSW) 2025, marking Pakistan’s largest annual celebration of space science, technology, and innovation. The event is organized by the National Centre of GIS and Space Applications (NCGSA) under the patronage of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), in collaboration with the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO).
Aligned with this year’s global theme, “Living in Space,” the week-long celebration explores humanity’s next frontier — not only the exploration of outer space but also the challenge of sustaining life beyond Earth.
The opening ceremony was attended by Prof Dr Syed Wilayat Husain and Prof Dr Ihtzaz Qamar, both former senior scientists at Dr AQ Khan Research Laboratories, who jointly inaugurated the event. They commended IST’s pivotal role in nurturing scientific curiosity and advancing space education across Pakistan.
For nearly two decades, IST has served as the national focal point for World Space Week, transforming its campus into a hub of exploration and discovery every October. The event has grown into Pakistan’s largest and oldest platform for public engagement in space science, drawing thousands of students, educators, and visitors from across the country.
Dr Najam Abbas Naqvi, Chairman of NCGSA, highlighted the week’s impact on inspiring future generations:
“World Space Week at IST stands as a living example of Pakistan’s scientific spirit. Each year, it turns knowledge into experience, inspiring young minds to explore new horizons. The theme ‘Living in Space’ challenges us to imagine life beyond Earth and to apply space technologies to sustain life on our own planet.”
This year’s celebrations feature over 50 interactive competitions and modules, engaging more than 2,000 participants from over 50 schools and colleges nationwide. Activities include model satellite building, robotics and coding challenges, space art, creative writing, and debates, all aimed at linking imagination with practical innovation.
World Space Week 2025 reaffirms Pakistan’s growing commitment to STEM education, youth engagement, and global space collaboration, positioning IST at the forefront of the nation’s space awareness and education movement.
