The National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) celebrated the “40 Years Commemoration of NIO” on 2nd January 2023. It was NIO’s first initiative to celebrate 40 years of Commemoration of NIO. Distinguished guests from former DGs NIO and alumni were invited. The program began with reciting the Holy Quran and the National Anthem of Pakistan. The opening program included introductory remarks and a wonderful video presentation of NIO's achievements of NIO in the last four decades such as Antarctic Expedition, Northern Arabian Sea Environment and Ecosystem Research (NASEER), and Continental Shelf Extension Program.

Dr. M.M.Rabbani (Former DG-NIO), Dr. Shahid Amjad (Former DG-NIO), Dr. Asif Inam (Former DG-NIO) addressed 1st Era (1981-1990), 2nd Era (1991-200), and 3rd Era (2001-2020) of NIO respectively. Brig(R) Akram (Associate, Friend of NIO) and Mr. Moazzam Khan (Former DG-MFD) expressed online their remarks of the day especially the role of NIO in Pakistan's first and second Antarctic expeditions. Current Director General NIO Dr. Samina Kidwai addressed a talk on NIO Vision 2040. Dr. Ibrahim Zia, Senior Research Officer and Project Director of GIS and RS Centre of Integrated Physical Oceanography Lab (IPOL) launched IPOL webpage and Weather Bulletin Flip Book. The souvenirs were presented to former Director Generals of NIO and alumni.

Over the years, the NIO has contributed significantly to the understanding of Pakistan's marine biodiversity, oceanography, and coastal processes. Their research has helped to identify and address issues related to marine pollution, climate change, and sustainable management of coastal resources.

Celebrating this anniversary is not only a recognition of the NIO's achievements but also an opportunity to reflect on the challenges that lie ahead. With the growing impacts of climate change and increasing pressures on coastal and marine ecosystems, the work of organizations like the NIO is more critical than ever. The Celebration of 40 Years ended with a Group Photo and refreshment.

On 10th February 2023, the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) was invited to attend three days Pakistan International Maritime Expo & Conference (PIMEC).

The Pakistan International Maritime Expo & Conference (PIMEC) was a significant event for the maritime industry in Pakistan organised by Pakistan Navy under the patronage of Ministry of Maritime Affairs. PIMEC provided a platform for local and international maritime companies, experts, and policymakers to come together to discuss and explore the latest technologies, equipment, and services related to the maritime sector.

The conference brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the latest trends and challenges in the maritime sector. The conference also provided an opportunity for attendees to network, share knowledge, and learn from each other's experiences.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan approved the appointment of DR. SAMINA KIDWAI as the regular DIRECTOR GENERAL (BS 21) of the National Institute of Oceanography Pakistan. She has taken charge of office on 7th January 2021 for a period of 3 years.

Profile: Professional Marine Sciences (Biological Oceanography) research experience of over 29 years, 24 years at NIO with more than 15+ years of post-doctoral experience. Research interests include Biological Oceanography, (zoo)plankton ecology, bio-physical interactions and coastal deep sea interface and its effects on plankton ecology, food-web dynamics using biomarkers, developing Marine Bio-Geographical Information Systems (Marine BioGIS) for Pakistan and for the Northwest Arabian Sea, island and deltaic ecosystems and the impact/resilience to climatic variability on marine ecosystems, Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Member of the NIO team in several international research initiatives and national consultancy projects. Interested in National Capacity Building & Strengthening in Ocean Sciences for Pakistan, and Pakistan preparedness for International programs such as the UN SDG14, Blue Economy, UN OCEAN DECADE program 2021-2030 & IIOE-2. Involvement in International Scientific diplomacy and national coordination for progress in oceanography. Visiting scientist in several countries. Represented Pakistan at several International fora, made oral presentations: Belgium, Bermuda, China, Denmark, India (SAARC), Italy, Kuwait, Lebanon, Malaysia, Norway, Oman, Sri-Lanka, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States of America. Private International travels also include- Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Luxemburg, Switzerland, The Netherlands, UAE, K.S.A. Received YOUNG SCIENTIST CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION IHDP, IGBP,WCRP, Washington, USA, Best oral presentation at Islamic Network Oceanographic Commission (INOC), Lebanon; First Prize for best speaker at the SAARC “Training on Multidisciplinary Oceanographic Observation for Coastal Zone Management at Goa, India. Coordinator of two International collaborations of NIO. Currently, Project Director of a Public Sector Development Project, GOP. Has more than 60 scientific publications (scientific journals/peer reviewed with impact factor, recognised, book chapters, project/technical reports, press releases, general interest articles etc.)