The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in cooperation with Intergen Foundation of the Republic of Türkiye and COMSATS University in Islamabad, Islamic Republic of Pakistan, organized a seminar on the challenges of rare diseases in healthcare. The event aimed to discuss the medical, scientific, and ethical implications posed by rare diseases and was held within the framework of ICESCO’s initiative to build the future global genomics workforce.

In his opening remarks at the seminar, held via videoconference on Wednesday 23 October 2023, Dr. Raheel Qamar, Head of ICESCO’s Science and Environment Sector, highlighted the latest developments and discoveries in rare disease research.

Dr. Raheel reaffirmed the Organization’s commitment to fostering innovation and research in technology and healthcare among its Member States through the implementation of various programs, projects, and competitions targeting youth, students, and researchers, most notably ICESCO’s youth training program on creating and developing small-scale projects in technology and innovation, and “My Thesis in 1000 Words” award for PhD students at universities in the Islamic world.

The seminar featured contributions from several experts, scientists, and healthcare officials, and saw the participation of students from six universities across Pakistan and Bangladesh. The speakers discussed various methods and mechanisms for treating rare diseases and emphasized the importance of fostering dialogue and cooperation in the healthcare sector.