A two-day workshop on “Cochrane Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis: Knowledge Synthesis and Translation” was successfully organized on 3rd–4th August 2026 at Bahria University College of Medicine (BUCM), Bahria University Health Sciences Campus, Islamabad. The workshop was organized by Director Research, Sr. Prof. Dr. Wafa Omer, Brig. Dr. Muhammad Babar Khan, and Dr. Saira Karimi, with the objective of strengthening research capacity in systematic review, meta-analysis, evidence synthesis, and knowledge translation.
The program commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran and Durood Sharif, followed by opening remarks by Dr. Saira Karimi, who welcomed the participants and highlighted the significance of evidence synthesis in promoting high-quality, evidence-based healthcare research.
Conducted in collaboration with master trainers from the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), Rawalpindi, the workshop featured a combination of interactive lectures, practical demonstrations, group activities, presentations, and hands-on training. Participants were introduced to key concepts and methodologies related to systematic reviews and meta-analysis, including PRISMA guidelines, systematic review methodology, PICO formulation, building effective search strategies, RevMan software, Forest Plot interpretation, Risk of Bias assessment, and knowledge translation.
The workshop was facilitated by distinguished trainers Brig. Prof. Dr. Sikandar Hayat Khan, Col. Dr. Bushra, and Maj. Dr. Ikram Ullah Khan, who shared their expertise, practical knowledge, and valuable insights throughout the sessions. The trainers guided participants through various stages of systematic review and meta-analysis, enabling them to understand the practical application of evidence synthesis methods.
As part of the academic sessions, Research Officer Dr. Nesheman Huma delivered a detailed presentation on the PICO format and building search strategies. The session provided participants with practical guidance on formulating focused research questions using the PICO framework and developing appropriate and effective search strategies for systematic reviews. The presentation contributed significantly to strengthening participants’ understanding of the initial and essential steps involved in conducting a systematic review.
The interactive activities, hands-on exercises, and group presentations further enhanced participants’ learning and provided opportunities to apply the concepts discussed during the workshop. The practical sessions particularly supported participants in developing a better understanding of research question formulation, literature searching, critical appraisal, data analysis, and interpretation of systematic review findings.
The workshop concluded with closing remarks by the Principal, BUCM, Maj. Gen. Prof. Dr. Shazia Nisar, who appreciated the efforts of the organizers, trainers, and participants. She emphasized the importance of strengthening evidence-based research practices and encouraged continued efforts to enhance research capacity and academic excellence in healthcare.
Overall, the workshop was a valuable academic initiative that provided participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis. The activity served as an important step towards strengthening evidence synthesis, research capacity, knowledge translation, and engagement with the Cochrane Pakistan Program at Bahria University Health Sciences Campus Islamabad.
