The UNESCO Chairs Programme promotes international inter-university cooperation and networking to enhance institutional capacities through knowledge sharing and collaborative work. The Programme supports the establishment of UNESCO Chairs Networks in key priority areas related to UNESCO’s fields of competence. Today, 170 of the University Chairs included in the UNESCO Chairs programme are related to Natural Sciences.

OBJECTIVES

 

The ICCBS as a part of University of Karachi is proud that a Chair of this prestige, a Chair which takes a global and cross disciplinary lead on such an important discipline of Science is designated at the ICCBS, University of Karachi under the expertise and advocacy of the leadership of the ICCBS. 

 

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah has been appointed as the new Chair holder of the UNESCO Chair on Medicinal and Bio-organic Natural Product Chemistry at the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi.

This is an international UNESCO Chair in the field of Medicinal and Bio-Organic Natural Product Chemistry and this would help Pakistan become a center of excellence in this important area of research, especially to address the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a chair holder, Prof. Dr. Shah will continue to foster international collaboration and cutting-edge research in the field of medicinal and bio-organic natural product chemistry.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah is an internationally recognized scientist with a distinguished academic and research career. He has published more than 530 research articles, authored seven books published internationally, and holds multiple US patents. One of his authored book (Elsevier) was declared best book of the year 2017 by HEC.

 Khwarizmi International Award (KIA), from Ministry of Science Research & Technology Iran (2024) and earning the distinguished title of Khwarizmi International Laureate.
 Pakistan Civil Award (Tamgha-i-Imtiaz)
 Top scientist for the year 2019 by the directorate of Science and Technology Government of KPK.
 Avicenna Science & Innovation Award, by Brain Trust UK.
 Abdus Salam Award.

He is member of National Nanotechnology Foresight Committee (PCST) and the COMSTECH consultative working group of scientists from OIC countries, to prepare Ten-Year Plan of Action (TYPOA 2016-2025). He has the fellowship of Pakistan Academy of Sciences, Islamic world academy of sciences, International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), the Chemical Society of Pakistan and Royal College of Physicians Edinburgh.

 Director, The International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi,
 President, The Chemical Society of Pakistan.
 Guest Professor, Nankai University, China.
 Visiting Professor, Hunan University of Traditional Medicine China.
 Secretary, Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) of Sindh Chapter.
 Advisor, of the International Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Registry; China.
 General Manager, Center for Bioequivalence and Clinical Research.
 Editor Journal, the Chemical Society of Pakistan.
 Deputy Coordinator, National Chemistry Talent Contest Program of HEC.

As a UNESCO Chair, Prof. Dr. Shah has made notable progress in the discovery and development of bioactive compounds derived from natural products, with particular focus on their medicinal applications. Several key research projects on natural product chemistry, pharmacological evaluations, and Nano-medicine integration have been successfully conducted.
 

1. Educational Outreach:
He has expanded its educational programs, providing specialized training to over 15 students, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students, in cutting-edge techniques in medicinal chemistry and bio-organic natural product research.
 

2. International Collaboration:
Collaborative research projects with institutions across Asia, Africa, and Europe have been successfully initiated, strengthening global partnerships and knowledge exchange in the field of medicinal chemistry.

3. Symposium and Workshops:
He hosted several symposiums, including the “Chemical & Biological Safety and Security” event, which focused on best practices for handling bioactive compounds and ensuring laboratory safety in natural product research.

 SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being

 

The UNESCO Chair has contributed to improving global health by conducting research in medicinal chemistry and bio-organic natural products. The focus has been on discovering novel bioactive compounds derived from natural sources, which have the potential to be developed into therapeutic agents. These efforts support the development of affordable and effective medicines, particularly targeting diseases prevalent in developing countries. The Chair’s collaborations with national and international research institutions have led to advancements in understanding the pharmacological properties of these compounds, contributing to the global health agenda.

 

The Chair has actively contributed to SDG 4 by providing high-quality education and training to students and researchers in the fields of medicinal chemistry and bio-organic natural products. Through specialized courses, internships, and research programs for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students, the Chair equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become leaders in the field. Furthermore, the Chair has organized international workshops, seminars, and webinars, making education more accessible and enhancing the scientific capacity of students worldwide.

 

 

Through cutting-edge research in the integration of nanotechnology with bioactive natural products, the UNESCO Chair has fostered innovation in drug discovery. This innovative approach aims to improve drug delivery systems, enhance bioavailability, and target specific diseases more effectively. The Chair’s research on Nano-medicine exemplifies how scientific advancements can contribute to the development of new technologies and infrastructure in the pharmaceutical industry, thus supporting SDG 9.

 SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

The UNESCO Chair has played a crucial role in promoting international collaboration by partnering with universities, research institutions, and industry leaders across Asia, Africa, and Europe. These partnerships have enabled the Chair to share knowledge, conduct joint research projects, and strengthen global networks in the field of medicinal and bio-organic chemistry. By fostering these collaborations, the Chair contributes to the achievement of SDG 17, which emphasizes the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals.

Collaboration with UNESCO field offices:

UNESCO Chair have actively participated in various UNESCO programs and forums aimed at promoting global collaboration and knowledge exchange:

 

 Participated in the Priority Africa Flagship Program 2: Contributed to The General History of Africa on 11 December 2024, aligning with our commitment to global education and sustainable development.

 

 Engaged in Collective Reflections at the International Forum of UNESCO Chairs and Partners, fostering cross-disciplinary discussions and strengthening international partnerships.
 

 Attended the UNESCO Report Launch on 6 November 2024, titled "More than Welcome - Intercultural Integration of Migrants in and through Higher Education", supporting UNESCO's initiatives on intercultural dialogue and education.

 

 Participated in the Virtual Global Meet-Up and Virtual Global Symposium of the World Council on Intercultural and Global Competence on 22 November 2024, engaging with global leaders in intercultural competence and education.
 

 Contributed to Discussions at the International Forum: Transforming Knowledge for Africa's Future on 2 October 2024, emphasizing the role of scientific research and innovation in shaping Africa’s future.

 

These engagements reflect UNESCO Chair’s ongoing commitment to UNESCO's mission and the advancement of research in medicinal and bio-organic natural products.