LOWER DIR: Speakers at a function held at the University of Malakand here on Wednesday emphasised the need for harnessing the power of quantum science and technology to develop new medicines, sustainable energy resources and ultra-fast computers to transform lives. The varsity’s Centre for Computational Material Sciences organised the function to mark 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology as mandated by the UN on June 7, 2024. A cake cutting ceremony and a walk were also held on the occasion. Special assistant to chief minister on prisons MPA Humayun Khan, Vice-Chancellor Prof Rashid Ahmad, educationist Prof Fida Younis Khattak, faculty members and students were in attendance. The speakers lauded the varsity administration and its department of physics for introducing quantum physics in an easy-to-understand scientific manner. Prof Iftikhar Ahmed, chairman of the department of physics, and director of the Centre for Computational Material Sciences, and VC Prof Rashid Ahmed, emphasised that it was necessary to bring innovation in education and research for the development of quantum science and technology in Pakistan to find long-term solutions to the problems faced by the country. They pledged to empower young minds with knowledge, skills and latest research in quantum science and technology to make a positive impact. They said they had to take practical steps to promote quantum science and technology to put the country on the path of social and economic development. Drug inspector Dr Mohammad Saleem Marwat on Wednesday appreciated the Samarbagh Hospital medical superintendent Dr Adil for providing free medicines to poor patients in the emergency unit. He stated this during a visit to the hospital. Mr Marwat also checked medical stores in Samarbagh, Mayar and Kambat Bazaars, and initiated legal action against owners of two medical stores for violating rules and regulations. Members of the district oversight committee for jail have expressed satisfaction over the steps taken by the administration of District Jail Timergara to resolve the problems of inmates. They made the remarks during a meeting of the committee held at the jail on Wednesday with additional deputy commissioner (relief) Mohammad Ishtiaq in the chair. Jail superintendent Mohammad Ayub Bacha informed the meeting that all available resources were being utilised for prisoners’ welfare.