NAROWAL: World Space Week 2026 was celebrated for the first time in Narowal, in collaboration with the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), under the vision of Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal. The initiative aimed to promote awareness of space science, scientific research and modern technology among young people.
Addressing the closing ceremony, Ahsan Iqbal announced that Pakistan’s first space museum would be established at the University of Narowal to encourage young people to explore space science and research.
According to the federal minister, Pakistan’s first astronaut is scheduled to embark on a space mission from a Chinese space facility on November 25. He also said Pakistan has set a target of landing on the Moon by 2035.
Iqbal expressed confidence that cooperation with China would help Pakistan make significant progress in space exploration and research.
He highlighted the growing importance of space technology in various sectors, including agriculture, communications, climate change management, education and national security. He urged young people to prioritise scientific inquiry, research and the pursuit of knowledge.
The minister also praised the University of Narowal for securing first place at the Islamabad Science Festival, describing the achievement as evidence of the talent and potential of Pakistan’s youth.
He said the government was working to provide young people with greater opportunities in emerging scientific fields and modern technologies so that Pakistan could strengthen its position in research, innovation and scientific development.
