Ahsan Iqbal Stresses Research and Innovation for Pakistan’s Health Sector
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal’s Address
Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, has emphasised the importance of professional dedication, hard work, and modern research in becoming an exceptional health professional. He made these remarks while addressing the Research and Education 2026 Conference organised by Ameeruddin Medical College (AMC) via video link on Wednesday.
Iqbal assured that the government will offer full support to promote innovation and research in healthcare, enabling Pakistan to achieve self-reliance in this sector. He stated that modern research and technology are key drivers of national progress, and by connecting Pakistani doctors with global advancements, the country can enhance its international standing.
Importance of Research and Contemporary Education
The minister highlighted the need to equip medical professionals with modern knowledge and skills, aligning with the future of medicine being closely tied to research and contemporary teaching methods.
AMC’s Principal, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Farooq Afzal, echoed this sentiment, arguing that international-standard doctors cannot be produced without innovation in medical education. He praised AMC and PGMI for their consistent pioneering of new medical teaching approaches, focusing on clinical and research-based education rather than traditional classroom learning.
Recommendations for Modern Medical Education
Distinguished medical educators at the conference offered insights:
- Textbook knowledge alone is insufficient; integration of technology, simulation, and research into medical training is essential.
- Problem-based learning, case discussions, and skills laboratories should replace conventional lectures as mandatory curriculum components.
- Artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and modern public health concepts should be incorporated every three years.
Local Research for Addressing Health Challenges
Participants emphasised the significance of locally generated, data-driven research to tackle Pakistan’s significant health issues, such as hepatitis, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and maternal and child health. They proposed establishing Student Research Societies, dedicated research units, and ethics committees within medical colleges.
Additionally, they urged the government and private sector to provide funding opportunities, grants, and platforms for publishing annual research journals to encourage young researchers.
The conference gathered renowned medical experts like Dr. Muhammad Usman Rashid, Prof. Athar Inam, Dr. Safee Ullah Chaudhry, and many others to discuss and contribute to the advancement of healthcare through research and education.
