02/06/2026
The Department of Public Mental Health, Health Services Academy (HSA), Islamabad, in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh, successfully organised the two-day international conference on “Enhancing Pakistan’s Health System: The Impact of the Healthcare Workforce.”
This event served as a platform for researchers, policymakers, healthcare professionals, academicians, students, and development partners to exchange knowledge, present research findings, and discuss innovative and evidence-informed strategies to address current healthcare challenges and strengthen health system performance in Pakistan. A total of 36 abstracts were received from across Pakistan, of which 12 abstracts and 6 posters were selected after rigorous scrutiny and presented at the conference. Presenters from Punjab, Sindh, AJK, and KPK contributed diverse perspectives, and shields and certificates were presented in recognition of their valuable contributions and academic excellence.
The conference was honored by the presence of distinguished leaders and chief guests including Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath (Minister of State, Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination), Dr. Akhtar Ali Bandesha (President, Pakistan Medical Association Islamabad), Dr. Syeda Rashida Batool (DHO Islamabad), Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan (Vice Chancellor, Health Services Academy), and Dr Babar Tasneem Sheikh (Director ORIC, HSA). Their valuable engagement and perspectives strengthened the dialogue around transforming Pakistan’s health system through evidence, leadership, and workforce development.
The conference was successfully organized under the leadership of Dr. Abid Malik (Head of Department, Department of Public Mental Health, HSA), Dr. Ikhlaq Ahmad (Associate Professor, Health Services Academy), and Dr. Nadia Suleman (Research Manager, Department of Public Mental Health, HSA), whose commitment and vision created a meaningful space for collaboration, research dissemination, and advancing public health discourse.
We extend our sincere appreciation to all speakers, researchers, participants, and partners for their contributions to impactful discussions and collective efforts to build a stronger, more resilient, and equitable health system for Pakistan.
Together, advancing health systems through research, collaboration, and action.