By our correspondent
KARACHI: The Vice Chancellor of Al-Kawthar University, Dr Athar Mahboob, underscored the importance of developing human capital to effectively mobilise Pakistan’s vast youth population while addressing the 16th Annual National Medical Conference held in Karachi.
Speaking as keynote speaker at the conference, organized by Muslim Medical Mission in collaboration with The Modern Hospital (TMH), he highlighted that investment in youth through education and values-based leadership is essential for national progress. The conference, themed “Shaping the Future of Medical Ethics”, brought together healthcare professionals to deliberate on ethical challenges in modern medicine.
Dr Mahboob emphasized the integration of faith-based values in academic institutions to promote excellence and a commitment to human service, while also advocating the introduction of social finance courses.
Chief guest Prof Dr S.M. Tariq Rafi, Chairman of the Higher Education Commission Sindh, praised Al-Kawthar University’s efforts in transforming madrassa students through modern education and technological advancement.
Dr Shahzad, Vice Chancellor of Health Services Academy, described artificial intelligence as primarily an economic activity, noting that its application in medical practice dates back decades in the form of clinical decision systems.
Dean of Al-Kawthar University, Dr Minhaj Kidvai, called for a shift towards preventive healthcare by incorporating prevention-focused subjects into medical curricula. Dr Nosheen Raza from the University of Karachi highlighted concerns regarding ethical standards in AI and the increasing commercialization of the medical profession on social media, urging regulatory attention from the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council.
The conference featured participation from senior officials including Sindh Health Secretary Tahir Hussain Sangi and Prof Dr Amjad Siraj Memon, Vice Chancellor of Jinnah Sindh Medical University, along with Prof Saeed Qureshi of Sohail University.
