The International Conference on Applications of Space Science and Technology (ICAST 2025), organized by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in partnership with several Pakistani and international institutions, concluded on Thursday, 20 November 2025, in Islamabad, with the participation of 70 officials and experts and 2,000 attendees from various countries.

In the opening address, Dr. Muhammad Sharif, Advisor for the Science and Environment Sector at ICESCO, stated that space has become a pivotal tool for addressing pressing global challenges, including climate change, food security, and disaster prediction. He explained that Earth observation through satellites is now an essential component for achieving sustainable development, highlighting the Organization’s initiatives in this field, which include specialized academic chairs, training programs, a workshop for designing an educational satellite (CanSat), and partnerships with leading international space institutions.

Dr. Sharif also reviewed during the conference the rapid economic growth trends in the space sector, pointing to ICESCO’s diverse programs and research aimed at preparing a new generation of youth in the Islamic world trained to work in future space professions.

On the sidelines of the conference, Dr. Sharif held meetings with heads of space agencies and officials from scientific networks and international bodies to discuss future cooperation projects, expand youth-oriented programs, organize joint training sessions, and develop satellite applications to strengthen capabilities in addressing climate change.