UNDP and Islamic Development Bank delegation visits ICON

A delegation from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), comprising notable figures including Mr. Sulayman Janneh, Senior Technology Deployment Specialist at IsDB; Mr. Ousmane Diaby, Lead Youth Empowerment Specialist at IsDB; and Ms. Cissy Shen, Partnerships & Pipeline Development Coordinator at UNDP, visited the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST). This visit aimed to explore potential avenues for collaboration with the Innovation and Commercialization (ICON) team. The delegation’s engagement began with a comprehensive presentation by Ms. Sana Maqbool, Director of ICON, who outlined the myriad achievements of NUST and its associated innovation initiatives. Her presentation highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, illustrating how NUST has become a prominent hub for research and development in the region. The delegation was particularly impressed by the various programs aimed at nurturing homegrown talent and the substantial impact of ICON in enabling start-ups to thrive. Following the presentation, the delegation received a guided tour of the National Science and Technology Park (NSTP). This tour provided firsthand insight into the vibrant start-up ecosystem at NUST, showcasing a diverse array of companies and initiatives that epitomize the university’s dedication to commercializing innovative research. The delegation expressed enthusiasm regarding the dynamic environment at NSTP, acknowledging its potential for fostering youth entrepreneurship, driving technological advancements, and contributing to economic development in the region. its potential for fostering youth entrepreneurship, driving technological advancements, and contributing to economic development in the region.