The Environmental Microbiology Research Group at the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (SCEE), Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering (IESE), NUST, celebrated International Microorganisms Day on 30th September 2026. The event, coordinated globally by the Federation of European Microbiological Societies (FEMS), focused on the theme “Disinfection Processes for Public and Environmental Health: Role of Microorganisms.” The event highlighted the importance of disinfection in environmental protection, public health, and the management of microbial risks.

The program featured expert talks by Dr. Sehar Saleem, Assistant Professor at SINES, NUST, and Dr. Sidra Abbas, Assistant Professor from Fatima Jinnah Women University (FJWU). The talks explored practical approaches to microbial inactivation and control, highlighting the application of disinfection technologies in different environmental and public health settings. An engaging poster competition was also organized around the event theme, providing undergraduate and postgraduate students an opportunity to communicate scientific concepts related to microorganisms, disinfection, and environmental and public health through creative and informative scientific posters. The posters were evaluated by Dr. Nazish Iftikhar and Dr. Asma Jamil, who assessed the participants based on scientific relevance, accuracy, creativity, and presentation.

The event brought together students and faculty members to enhance their understanding of disinfection processes used to control and inactivate microorganisms in public and environmental settings. The activities encouraged scientific communication, creativity, and awareness of effective microbial control strategies for reducing health risks and promoting environmental safety. The closing ceremony was marked by a cake-cutting ceremony led by Associate Dean, SCEE (IESE) NUST, followed by acknowledgements for the invited speakers, poster evaluators, organizers, and participating students.

International Microorganisms Day 2026 successfully provided a platform for learning and scientific engagement, highlighting the significance of disinfection processes and the role of microorganisms in protecting public health and environmental well-being.