Descon Oxychem Ltd. (DOL), one of Pakistan’s leading chemical companies, has entered into a strategic partnership with LUMS’ Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering to launch a fully funded research and development (R&D) initiative. This groundbreaking collaboration is aimed at developing advanced materials for future industrial applications, setting a new benchmark for industry–academia partnerships in Pakistan.
The signing ceremony was attended by top LUMS leadership including Vice Chancellor Ali Cheema, Provost Tariq Jadoon, and Dean Dr. Walther Schwarzacher, along with the faculty of Chemical Engineering. The event marked a milestone moment, highlighting a shared commitment to innovation, talent development, and impactful research that directly connects academia with industry needs.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Yasir Siddique Sheikh, CEO of Descon Oxychem, emphasized the company’s vision for the future: “At Descon Oxychem, we believe that the future of industry lies in strong collaborations with academia. By partnering with LUMS, we aim to strengthen Pakistan’s R&D ecosystem, foster innovation, and invest in knowledge that will shape industrial applications of tomorrow. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to building local capacity and advancing science for sustainable growth.”
The agreement reflects Descon Oxychem’s long-term dedication to innovation while reaffirming the crucial role of industry–academia linkages in meeting Pakistan’s future industrial and technological demands. By bridging this gap, the partnership is expected to unlock new opportunities for research, nurture the next generation of scientists and engineers, and pave the way for sustainable growth in the country’s industrial sector.
