COMSTECH Awards Research Grants to 19 Female Researchers from OIC States

Islamabad: The Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (COMSTECH) has announced research grants for 19 young female researchers from several OIC member states, including Malaysia, Benin, Mauritania, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, Egypt, and Uzbekistan, as part of the COMSTECH Young Women Researchers Research Grant Programme for 2025-2026. The initiative is designed to enhance scientific capabilities and support innovative research projects led by women across these nations.According to Union of OIC News Agencies, this program aims to promote scientific excellence and strengthen national research capabilities in member states by offering financial aid to young female researchers. Each grant, ranging from US$5,000 to US$7,000, will be allocated for the purchase of scientific equipment, consumables, basic research tools, and specialized scientific references. The selection process involved a rigorous and transparent arbitration procedure, with p roposals undergoing evaluation by independent external experts. A total of 690 research proposals were submitted from various OIC member states, demonstrating a significant level of interest and competition.Professor Dr. Mohammad Iqbal Chaudhry, COMSTECH General Coordinator, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the winning researchers and reaffirmed COMSTECH's dedication to empowering young scientists, particularly female researchers. He emphasized the importance of providing opportunities that promote research excellence and contribute to sustainable development in member states. Dr. Chaudhry also encouraged the recipients to continue their research endeavors with dedication and innovation to ensure valuable scientific contributions to their respective countries.The COMSTECH Youth Research Grants Programme is part of broader efforts to foster scientific collaboration, mitigate brain drain, and reinforce the scientific infrastructure within OIC member states.