China’s BGI Launches Training for Young Pakistani Researchers
The Beijing Genomics Institute (BGI), the world’s leading genomics research institution, is stepping up efforts to empower young Pakistani scientists by initiating structured training collaborations. According to Gwadar Pro, BGI is committed to supporting scientific capacity building by offering hands-on programs and technical expertise, especially in genomics, health diagnostics, and biotechnology.
Qaiser Nawab, Chairman of the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD), visited BGI’s Shenzhen headquarters to discuss opportunities for bilateral cooperation. He was welcomed by Mao Zhixia, BGI's Senior Official and Head of South Asia Affairs, who detailed the Institute’s rise from humble beginnings to its current global leadership in gene sequencing and precision health.
P.c. China Pakistan Economic Corridor
Both parties shared a vision of mutual growth in global health innovation. They expressed strong interest in establishing formal frameworks to support training initiatives for researchers from Pakistan and other BRI countries. Nawab reaffirmed BRISD’s commitment to inclusive development through science, noting the importance of empowering youth in the Global South with the tools and knowledge to lead tomorrow’s research.
In a related initiative, Nawab also announced Pakistan’s first Virtual Blood Bank Centre, aimed at transforming emergency response by connecting patients with over 30,000 registered blood donors via a dedicated emergency helpline. This innovation underscores the shared goal of improving healthcare accessibility through technology.
Calling BGI a "shining example of innovation," Nawab encouraged Pakistani youth to engage in science, technology, and humanitarian causes like blood donation—emphasizing that "every drop of blood can save a life."