Key Takeaways
- The 10th Space Summer School (SSS-2026) opened at the Institute of Space Technology (IST).
- More than 70 students from over 30 schools across Pakistan are participating.
- The program aims to promote space science, technology and innovation among young learners.
The 10th Space Summer School (SSS-2026) has commenced at the Institute of Space Technology (IST), bringing together over 70 students from more than 30 schools across Pakistan for a week-long program. The initiative, organized by the Space Education Research Lab (SERL) under the National Center of GIS and Space Applications (NCGSA), is designed to inspire young learners in STEM fields.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Dr. Najam Abbas Naqvi, Chairman of NCGSA and Program Director of the Space Summer School, highlighted the importance of introducing space science and emerging technologies early in education. He emphasized that empowering students through quality STEM education is crucial for developing scientific talent to support Pakistan’s future space ambitions.
The academic program is structured around five thematic pathways: Astronomy and Astrophysics, Earth and Atmosphere, Aviation, Rocketry, and Satellite Technology. These pathways offer participants a comprehensive introduction to modern space sciences and their practical applications. Over the course of five days, students will attend lectures on topics such as the creation of the Universe, solar observation, satellite imagery, principles of flight, and rocketry.
In addition to theoretical learning, the program includes hands-on activities like solar observation, RC aircraft design and flight, Aqua Rocket design and launch, CanSat development and launch, and a screening of Jahan Aur Bhi Hain, Pakistan’s first space-themed telefilm. Participants will also visit IST’s Astronomical Observatory and Propulsion Engineering, Research and Launch Laboratory (PEARL) to gain firsthand exposure to advanced space research facilities.
Since its inception in 2017, the Space Summer School has grown into one of Pakistan's leading space education initiatives. Over the past decade, it has conducted 59 program days, engaged more than 2,750 students from over 546 schools and colleges, delivered 173 interactive teaching hours, organized 94 space-based STEM activities comprising 195 hands-on activity hours, and brought together more than 228 national and international experts.
The initiative contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Quality Education (SDG 4), Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), Climate Action (SDG 13), Life on Land (SDG 15), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). By promoting STEM education, technological innovation, environmental awareness, and collaboration among academia, the program aims to foster a new generation of space enthusiasts and innovators.
Dr. Najam Abbas Naqvi stated that initiatives like the Space Summer School not only inspire curiosity but also equip students with the knowledge, skills, and innovative mindset required to address national and global challenges through space science and technology.
Empowering young learners through quality STEM education is essential for developing the scientific talent needed to drive Pakistan’s future space ambitions and technological progress.
Dr. Najam Abbas Naqvi, Chairman of NCGSA and Program Director of the Space Summer School
