Bridging the Scientific Gap: The Crisis of Underserved Science Research in Pakistan

Despite being the fifth most populous country in the world and home to a vibrant youth population, Pakistan continues to lag behind in the field of scientific research. The country’s scientific community is struggling with limited funding, outdated infrastructure, and a lack of national priority, resulting in a landscape where innovation is stifled and talent remains underutilized.

Pakistan’s contributions to global science remain disproportionately low compared to its size and potential. According to recent statistics, Pakistan spends less than 0.3% of its GDP on research and development (R&D), far below the global average. This underinvestment reflects the broader neglect of science as a strategic tool for national progress.

The Talent Paradox

Ironically, Pakistan produces thousands of science graduates each year. However, due to the lack of research opportunities, many opt to switch fields or migrate abroad in search of better prospects. This “brain drain” results in a continual loss of skilled individuals who could otherwise contribute significantly to national development.

Dr. Farah Qureshi, a molecular biologist at a public university in Lahore, expressed concern:

“There’s no shortage of talent. The issue lies in the absence of vision and facilities. Our laboratories are poorly equipped, and there’s minimal collaboration between academia and industry.”

Neglected Research Areas

Several crucial fields remain underserved. Climate science, agricultural innovation, water resource management, and disease control are areas where Pakistan desperately needs research-led solutions. Yet, these domains are often ignored in national planning and university priorities.

For instance, despite the country’s vulnerability to climate change, including rising temperatures and frequent floods, investment in environmental sciences remains minimal. Similarly, local research on diseases like dengue, hepatitis, and malnutrition is either underfunded or dependent on international donors.

The Private Sector Vacuum

Globally, the private sector plays a significant role in scientific advancement. However, in Pakistan, industries rarely invest in research initiatives. This lack of engagement leads to a stagnant innovation ecosystem. There is minimal technology transfer from academia to business, and patents or locally developed technologies are rare.

Without incentives or government-backed frameworks, corporations have little motivation to fund scientific projects. This situation leaves universities and research centers struggling to finance their work.

Funding Bottlenecks and Bureaucracy

Government-run bodies such as the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) do offer grants, but the application process is often cumbersome, and approvals take months—sometimes even years. Moreover, funding is usually restricted to already-established institutions, sidelining smaller universities and independent researchers.

Many young researchers complain about the red tape involved in importing scientific equipment or accessing international journals. Without modern tools or updated literature, it becomes nearly impossible to conduct groundbreaking work.

A Need for Policy Reform

Experts suggest that science and technology must be placed at the heart of national development strategies. This means increasing R&D budgets, establishing dedicated research universities, and fostering public-private partnerships.

Additionally, there is a growing call to decentralize research funding. Local governments and provincial bodies should also be empowered to fund research initiatives that cater to regional issues like drought, agricultural diseases, or renewable energy solutions tailored to their environments.

Dr. Ahsan Raza, an environmental scientist, believes that a national science council led by researchers—not bureaucrats—could play a transformative role:

“Science policy must be evidence-based and long-term. We need to insulate it from political instability and bring in people who understand the importance of research.”

International Collaboration: A Missed Opportunity

While neighboring countries like India and China have made significant strides by collaborating with international institutions, Pakistan’s involvement in global scientific networks remains limited. Visa restrictions, diplomatic tensions, and lack of funding often prevent researchers from attending international conferences or joining global research initiatives.

If Pakistan is to build a future rooted in innovation, it must actively promote international academic partnerships, exchange programs, and joint research projects.

Conclusion: Time for a Scientific Awakening

Pakistan’s dream of becoming a knowledge-based economy will remain unfulfilled unless science is treated as a national priority. Underserved science research is not just a missed academic opportunity—it is a missed economic, environmental, and health opportunity.

It is imperative that the government, private sector, academia, and civil society work together to transform the country’s research landscape. With strategic planning, financial commitment, and a genuine respect for scientific inquiry, Pakistan can turn its untapped potential into a global force for innovation.