ISLAMABAD, FEB 10 /DNA/ – Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University (SZABMU) successfully concluded National Outreach Programme (NOP) for Higher Education Faculty, an initiative of the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE) HEC. The closing ceremony at SZABMU Islamabad, marked a significant step in advancing faculty development in medical, dentistry, and allied health education.
The ceremony opened with a welcome note by Dr. Syeda Kiran Riaz, Director Quality Enhancement Cell, SZABMU, followed by opening remarks from Prof. Dr. Moosa Khan, Vice Chancellor, SZABMU, and address by the chief guest, Mr. Sulaiman Ahmad, Director, NAHE, HEC.
Dr. Moosa Khan underscored the initiative’s transformative impact, stating, “This programme equips early career faculty with innovative teaching techniques, fostering collaborative practices and enhancing the learning experience for students. It demonstrates SZABMU’s commitment to excellence in medical and health education.”
Mr. Sulaiman emphasized that the National Faculty Development Programme aims to improve pedagogical skills, encourage innovation, and equip faculty members with the latest advancements in their fields. Faculty development is essential for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in higher education settings. By improving the capabilities and effectiveness of university faculty, institutions can better contribute to multiple SDGs. Faculty development aligns with and supports various SDGs including SDG-4 (Quality Education), SDG-5 (Gender Equality), SDG-8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG-10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG-13 (Climate Action) and SDG-16 (Peace, Justice and strong Institutions). By investing in faculty development, educational institutions can significantly advance the SDGs, ensuring quality education for all and fostering innovation, and promotes sustainable development across various sectors.
Mr. Ghulam Murtaza Goraya, Assistant Director, NAHE-HEC, highlighted the collaborative roles of training coordinators, resource persons, and participants, ensuring the programme’s success. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Dr. Shahab ud Din, Registrar of SZABMU, who expressed gratitude for this invaluable opportunity for faculty development and commended NAHE-HEC for their visionary support in elevating Pakistan’s higher education standards. Participants who completed the programme received a joint certificate from NAHE and the SZABMU.
 successfully concluded National){kind=link}