COMSTECH Awards Research Grants to Young Women Scientists from OIC States

ISLAMABAD: The OIC Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) has announced the award of Young Women Research Grants to 19 researchers from OIC member states, including Malaysia, Benin, Mauritania, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, Egypt, and Uzbekistan, under the COMSTECH Research Grant Program for Young Women Researchers 2025–26.

The initiative aims to promote scientific excellence, strengthen indigenous research capacity, and support young women researchers by providing financial assistance for innovative and impactful projects. Each awardee will receive a grant ranging from USD 5,000 to USD 7,000 to be used for scientific equipment, consumables, minor research tools, and specialized literature.

The grants were awarded through a transparent and rigorous peer-review process conducted by independent external experts. COMSTECH received 690 research proposals from across OIC member states, highlighting strong regional interest and competitiveness. Following detailed evaluation, the most meritorious proposals were selected for funding.

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Congratulating the awardees, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of OIC-COMSTECH, expressed his appreciation for the successful researchers and reaffirmed COMSTECH’s commitment to empowering young scientists, particularly women. He noted that such initiatives play a vital role in enhancing research excellence and contributing to sustainable development across the OIC region.

The COMSTECH Young Research Grant Program is part of broader efforts to promote collaboration, reduce brain drain, and strengthen the scientific and research ecosystem in OIC member states.