Over 1,000 Students Gather to Network and Learn at AKU’s Inspiring Event
Karachi: The International Student Research Conference, organized by students from AKU’s Medical College, successfully brought together over 1,000 participants from 30 universities for two days of networking and learning. Themed “Assembling Today’s Brightest for Tomorrow’s Breakthroughs,” the conference featured diverse scientific sessions, journal clubs, and poster presentations.
Keynote speaker Dr. Hasan Badre Alam, Chair of Surgery at Northwestern University, emphasized the importance of purpose in academic journeys. He advised students to identify meaningful surgical problems and set both long-term and short-term goals.
The conference offered a platform for students from various backgrounds to exchange ideas and engage with professors, fostering connections that could lead to future collaborations in research.
Dr. Sohail Khan, CEO of Aria Institute of Medical Sciences, shared his inspiring experience of establishing a hospital and research institute in Quetta, highlighting the vision and leadership necessary for impactful change.
Teaching sessions catered to all levels of expertise, emphasizing research’s role in community service. Journal Clubs enabled students to discuss research papers across various fields, enriching their understanding.
Dr. Russell Martins encouraged students to recognize the influence of their research, while an impactful session on “Overcoming Inequities in Women’s Health” raised critical discussions about women’s healthcare needs. Dr. Zahra Hoodbhoy highlighted the necessity of separating women’s health from maternal health for better care.
Dr. Fyezah Jehan showcased the link between research and policy by announcing that the Governments of Sindh and Punjab will implement the HPV vaccine in schools, a direct result of advocacy from the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health.
