KARACHI, Oct 17 (APP):Healthcare experts and officials, speaking at an international workshop, emphasized the importance of preparedness before the outbreak of any pandemic.They noted that, at the scientific level, it is a collective social responsibility to equip ourselves to deal with unforeseen situations that may arise from disasters or pandemics.
Speakers said that managing an outbreak or pandemic situation requires an integrated and coordinated approach. They also highlighted that the National Institute of Virology (NIV) at the Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research (PCMD), University of Karachi, carried out the highest number of COVID-19 tests in the country during the pandemic.
These views were expressed during the inaugural session of the 45-day international training course titled “COMSTECH–PCMD International Training Course in Virology and Pandemic Preparedness,” jointly organized by the OIC-COMSTECH and Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, University of Karachi. The event was held at the Prof. Salimuzzaman Siddiqui Auditorium, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi, on Friday.
The session was addressed by several prominent figures, including Prof. Dr. Nazli Hossain, Vice Chancellor, Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS); Jamshaid Alam Memon, Sindh Special Health Secretary; Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah, Director ICCBS; Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General OIC-COMSTECH; Ms. Nadira Panjwani, Chairperson, Dr. Panjwani Memorial Trust; and Dr. Saba Farooq.
Chief guest Prof. Dr. Nazli Hossain, the first woman Vice Chancellor of DUHS, emphasized the need for integrated collaboration among stakeholders during pandemics.
She said the recent COVID-19 pandemic redefined the concept of a “global village”, as the world witnessed unprecedented coordination among nations. She appreciated the organizers for holding such a valuable training course in virology and pandemic preparedness and called for more such initiatives to train young scientists.
Jamshaid Alam Memon, representing Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Pechuho, who could not attend the event, welcomed the international participants and highlighted the role of the Sindh Health Department during the pandemic.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Raza Shah stressed that it is our duty to prepare for any adverse situation arising from disasters or pandemics.
He informed participants about the national services rendered by the National Institute of Virology during the COVID-19 pandemic and appreciated the continuous support of the Sindh Government to ICCBS in combating global health challenges.
Referring to ICCBS, he described it as a premier institution with world-class facilities, whose scholars are serving both the nation and the international community.
Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary commended the vital role played by the NIV during the pandemic, describing it as a national service institution.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Dr. Panjwani Memorial Trust and the Sindh Government in addressing the challenges that emerged during the crisis.
Speaking about OIC-COMSTECH, he said the organization is dedicated to promoting science and education among OIC member states. COMSTECH aims to develop a technology innovation platform that enables key actors to showcase innovative solutions and technologies for socio-economic development across the Muslim world.
