A successful Thalassemia Social Worker Program was held at Bahria University Health Sciences Campus, Karachi (BUHSCK) in collaboration with Afzaal Memorial Thalassemia Foundation (AMTF). This impactful event, held under the recently signed MoU between BUHSCK and AMTF, aimed to raise awareness, educate future healthcare professionals, and build a trained network of social workers for thalassemia care in Pakistan.
The ceremony was attended by MBBS, BDS, and BS Nursing students, along with BUHSCK faculty and staff. The event began with a recitation of Holy Quran followed by Durood-e-Ibrahmi. The program was organized by Prof. Dr. Daud Mirza, Focal Person for the Thalassemia MoU Project, along with Ms. Marvi Bhutto, Manager of the Student Support Centre.
In her welcome address, Dean of Health Sciences and Principal of Bahria University Medical College, Major General (R) Shehla M. Baqai, emphasized the importance of a collective commitment to raising awareness within communities and advocating for preventive strategies such as mandatory premarital screening and family counselling. She highlighted that BUHSCK and AMTF reaffirmed their shared mission to reduce the incidence of thalassemia through collaborative efforts in education, early detection, and comprehensive support systems.
Dr. Asim Qidwai, CEO, Afzaal Memorial thalassemia Foundation (AMTF) shared his vision for a thalassemia-free society: "Thalassemia is a preventable disease. Our mission is not just to treat but to prevent. Awareness, early screening, and education are key. Every individual trained today becomes a torchbearer for tomorrow’s healthier generation. Together, we can ensure no child is born to suffer from this lifelong condition."
In his concluding remarks Director General Vice Admiral (R) Athar Mukhtar HI (M) BUHSCK emphasized that thalassemia is a preventable disease and highlighted the vital role of screening, genetic counselling, and public education. He stressed the need to train future healthcare professionals to actively contribute to thalassemia prevention and community awareness.
In the end Director General, Vice Admiral (R) Athar Mukhtar HI (M) BUHSCK presented the shield to the Chief Guest Dr. Asim Qidwai, CEO, Afzaal Memorial thalassemia Foundation.