Dr. Shaista Sohail stressed the important role that academics and researchers can play in developing fresh approaches to the needs of the health sector.
The round-table conference was organized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to address the issues faced by the health sector and to provide recommendations for improvement. The conference was co-chaired by Dr. Shaista Sohail, executive director of HEC, and Dr. Habib-ur-Rehman, chairman of Shifa International Hospital.
Conference was attended by dignitaries from chambers, the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, ORIC heads of higher education institutions, and eminent academics and researchers.
Dr. Shaista Sohail stressed the important role that academics and researchers can play in developing fresh approaches to the needs of the health sector.
Dr. Habib-ur-Rehman commended HEC’s efforts in bringing together academics and industry focal points for the health sector and emphasized the importance of the role, which calls for immediate collaborative efforts to promote Made in Pakistan solutions to the needs of the health sector.
The participants in the open discussion session to discuss issues, reaffirmed their commitment to cooperate and address the problems facing the health sector. In addition to innovative products, the nation can also reengineer the requirements locally, according to Dr. Shimail Daud, former president of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industries.
He explained that the rising import bill of health-related equipment and products requires interventions from indigenous solutions.
Dr. Shah Rukh, Associate Professor at NUST, shared with the attendees the success story of one of her health projects and urged business professionals to get involved and show an interest in the academics’ research-based solutions.
The health sector in Pakistan faces several challenges, including inadequate healthcare facilities and personnel, lack of access to quality medical care for rural and low-income populations, and insufficient funding for the health sector.
In addition, there are issues related to corruption and mismanagement, which further hinder the progress of the healthcare system in Pakistan. The government and various healthcare organizations are working towards addressing these challenges and improving the overall health sector in the country.