Dr. Aijaz Fatima Women & Children Centre
Dr. Aijaz Fatima Women & Children Centre
Dr. Aijaz Fatima Women & Children Centre outlines a strategic direction focused on advancing research in women and child health while simultaneously providing accessible treatment to women and children. The centre aims to leverage Ziauddin Hospital and University’s research strengths in healthcare to address high-risk pregnancy diseases. By conducting cutting-edge research in fields such as paediatrics, nursing and midwifery, public health, and family medicine with respect to mother and child care, the centre aims to contribute to the advancements in women and child healthcare practices. Additionally, the centre is committed to providing treatment to the underprivileged at subsidised rates, ensuring that healthcare services remain affordable and accessible to all. This approach allows for population-based studies integrating socio-economic factors to better understand and address women and child health challenges in Pakistan.
(Dec 31, 1926 – May 27, 2021)
Dr. Aijaz Fatima was a pioneering figure in the medical community, embodying a relentless commitment to providing quality healthcare to women and children in Pakistan.
Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Aijaz Fatima demonstrated unwavering passion and dedication to her profession. She played a pivotal role in establishing healthcare facilities and services along with her husband, Dr. Tajammul Hussain, starting from a small maternity home and emergency centre in Nazimabad, Karachi. This required a lot of effort but Dr. Aijaz Fatima and Dr. Tajammul Hussain remained enthusiastic about their mission and courageously faced any hurdle they came across. Because of their sheer devotion and commitment, the maternity home and emergency centre evolved into the renowned Ziauddin Group of Companies. This group encompasses tertiary care hospitals, community-based projects, and a university, all of which are dedicated to the promotion of healthcare and education in Pakistan.
Dr. Aijaz Fatima’s legacy extends beyond her professional achievements. She was deeply committed to her father’s vision of empowering women through education and healthcare. Her tireless efforts in providing medical care to women and children, even in the face of challenging circumstances, exemplify her dedication to humanitarian causes.
We envision to cater excellence in advancing women and child healthcare through community-focused services, innovative medical practices, and cutting-edge research.
We aspire to advance clinical practices and enhance medical knowledge intertwined with impactful research for women and child health.
We aim to provide a platform at ZU to elevate standards of care, promote health equity, and foster lasting improvements in the lives of mothers and children within our communities and beyond.
- To excel in mother and child health care through optimal clinical and community services at equitable rates.
- To develop an electronic database/ registry in order to identify the prevalence and real time problems faced by the community in regards to mothers and child care.
- To conduct cutting-edge research for the development of effective diagnostic tools, treatment modalities, and preventive strategies for maternal and child health issues.
- To collaborate with other healthcare providers and community organisations to ensure comprehensive care and support for mothers and children.
- To enhance the competencies of the faculty member/ human resources through capacity building measures.
Ziauddin University and Dr. Ziauddin Hospital, situated in Karachi, Pakistan, represent a distinguished institution recognised for its commitment to excellence in both healthcare provision and academic endeavours. The establishment is renowned for its unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding medical services and fostering a conducive environment for educational advancement.
Within Ziauddin Hospital, a convergence of state-of-the-art facilities and a cadre of proficient healthcare practitioners enables the delivery of specialised care across a wide spectrum of medical disciplines. Complementing the hospital’s pivotal role, Ziauddin University stands as a preeminent centre of learning, renowned for its academic rigour and pioneering research initiatives. Offering a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes encompassing medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and allied health sciences, the university nurtures a cadre of students equipped with the requisite knowledge, skills, and ethical framework requisite for impactful contributions to the healthcare sector. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative endeavours with Ziauddin Hospital, students are afforded invaluable opportunities for hands-on clinical exposure and engagement in cutting-edge research endeavours, thereby fostering a culture of innovation, professionalism, and ethical conduct.
Collectively, Ziauddin University and Hospital form a dynamic symbiotic entity wherein compassionate patient care harmonises with academic excellence, propelling advancements in healthcare delivery and shaping the future landscape of medicine.
Ziauddin University was established to spread knowledge globally and empower Pakistan’s youth with international-standard education. We have made significant strides in this journey, providing high quality education in over fifty fields and pioneering digitalization in healthcare. We have brought digitalization not only to academia but also to healthcare. Our prominent accomplishments include introducing Pakistan’s first virtual reality dental simulators and the Cyclotron Vault Building, which has elevated the healthcare sector.
Our latest step forward, the launch of the “Dr. Aijaz Fatima Women & Children Centre,” fills me with immense pride. This centre outlines a strategic direction focused on advancing research in women and child health, providing accessible treatment to women and children, and leveraging our research strengths to address high-risk pregnancy diseases. We aim to contribute to advancements in maternal and child healthcare practices through cutting-edge research in paediatrics, nursing, and midwifery and provide subsidised treatment to the underprivileged.
Our vision is to excel in advancing women and child healthcare through community-focused services, innovative medical practices, and cutting-edge research, ultimately enhancing medical knowledge and clinical practices. We are committed to making a positive impact on women’s and children’s health.
Dr. Aijaz Fatima Women & Children Centre is a significant milestone in our journey, and we are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of women and children in Pakistan.
In Loving Memory of Dr. Aijaz Fatima
Today marks a momentous occasion as we inaugurate the Dr. Aijaz Fatima Women and Children Centre—an initiative inspired by the enduring legacy of my beloved mother.
She was not only a dedicated doctor but also a compassionate soul whose unwavering resolve was to serve the well-being of women and children. Her persistent commitment to serving her community and providing quality healthcare to those in need was truly remarkable.
Both my parents worked tirelessly to establish Dr. Ziauddin Hospital in 1957 in Karachi, Pakistan. Patient care was their top priority, and they soon established a good reputation. Not only this, but they were also devoted parents, never neglecting their role; they were always there for children, friends and family.
This message is to honour her memory and as we celebrate the opening of this centre bearing her name, I am filled with deep gratitude and pride. This centre stands as a testament to her enduring spirit and her belief in the importance of accessible healthcare for all.
Dr. Aijaz Fatima was passionate about healthcare. Her dedication extended to the empowerment and advancement of women. She had a profound vision for improving education, nursing and healthcare.
She recognised the pivotal roles of nurses in delivering quality patient care. Dr. Fatima was deeply committed to enhancing their skills, knowledge, and professional development, acknowledging their significant contribution to the healthcare sector.
May this centre continue to embody the values and compassion that defined Dr. Aijaz Fatima’s legacy. Let us honour her memory by ensuring that her vision of care and kindness lives on through the work we do here.
With love and remembrance.
I am delighted to learn about the remarkable initiative undertaken by Ziauddin University and Dr. Ziauddin Hospital in establishing the Dr. Aijaz Fatima Women & Children Centre. This initiative holds immense potential to positively impact the lives of mothers and children for generations to come.
Ziauddin University has long been recognised for its provision of high-quality education to Pakistani youth, thereby significantly contributing to the betterment of our nation. Across various domains, including education, healthcare, and pioneering advancements in medical technology, the university has consistently showcased excellence in all its endeavours.
Now, the establishment of the Dr. Aijaz Fatima Women & Children Centre speaks volumes about its commitment to ensuring that everyone has access to quality healthcare services.
The centre’s focus on research and its vision of serving underprivileged communities perfectly align with the objectives of Ministry of Health. On behalf of the Government of Sindh, I extend my wholehearted support to Ziauddin University and Dr. Ziauddin Hospital in this pivotal endeavour.
To further enhance the quality of healthcare services in our region, it is imperative that we join forces. Together, we can more effectively and comprehensively address the healthcare needs of our communities.
I am confident that the Dr. Aijaz Fatima Women & Children Centre will make a significant contribution to the improvement of the healthcare sector, with a focus on child and women health. Let us work together towards a healthier and brighter future for all.
Dr. Zulfiqar Bhutta is a distinguished leader in the field of global health and epidemiology, with a remarkable track record of contributions to maternal, newborn, and child health research, advocacy, and leadership globally.
Affiliations
- Distinguished University Professor and Founding Director, Institute for Global Health and Development, Aga Khan University
- Founding Director, Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University
- Robert Harding Inaugural Chair in Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto
- Co-Director, SickKids Centre for Global Child Health, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto
- Adjunct Professorships at Schools of Public Health: Johns Hopkins (Baltimore), Tufts University (Boston), Boston University, University of Alberta
- Adjunct Professorship, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
Memberships
- Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (Edinburgh & London)
- Fellow of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (London)
- Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics
- Fellow of the Pakistan Academy of Sciences
Professional Leadership:
- Past-President, Commonwealth Association of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition (CAPGAN)
- Past-President, Federation of Asia-Oceania Perinatal Societies (FAOPS)
- Past-President, International Pediatrics Association
Awards and Recognitions:
- Dual recipient of Aga Khan University Distinguished Faculty Award for Research (2005) and AKU Award of Distinction (2012)
- Programme for Global Pediatric Research Award for Outstanding Contributions to Global Child Health (2009)
- American Academy of Pediatrics’ Sam Fomon Award for Lifetime Contributions to Nutrition Research (2014)
- WHO Ihsan Dogramaci Family Health Award (2014)
- TUBA Academy of Sciences Award for global contributions to Health and Life Sciences (2015)
- University of Toledo Medical Missions Hall of Fame Award (2016)
- McKinsey Geneva Forum for Health Award for contributions to maternal and child health globally (2016)
- World Academy of Sciences (Trieste) TWAS Prize in Medical Sciences (2017)
- Canada 150 Medal from the Senate of Canada for contributions to Global Child Health
- BMJ Award for Outstanding Contributions to South Asia
- National Academy of Medicine admission (2018)
- Fellow of the Royal Society (UK) (2020)
Ex-Prof. Gynecology & Obstetrics and Departmental Chairperson Ziauddin University & Hospitals
Group Lead
The Ex-Prof. Dr. Rubina Hussain has extensive expertise doing research on infectious illnesses as well as maternity, infant, child, adolescent, and pediatric health and nutrition. On the occasion of International Women’s Day in 2022, she received the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award/Health ICON Award for her dedication to patients’ well-being. She is the principal investigator of multiple national and international research projects related to maternal, newborn, and child nutrition. She has published several scientific research articles both nationally and internationally in high-impact journals.
Ex- Memberships
- Ex-Chairperson, Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Representative Committee of Pakistan
- Ex-Council of College of Physicians and Surgeons of Pakistan
- Ex-Secretary General & Executive member and treasurer, Society of Gynecologists & Obstetricians (SOGP)
Awards
- Certificate of Outstanding Performance in Documentation & Recording
- HEC Best Teacher Award (2012-2013)
- Menopause traveling Award by RCOG (1997)
- MRCOG(UK), FRCOG(UK), MSC(Reprod&Develop) UK,PGD(Bioethics),
- PHd.Scholar (Molecular Medicine).
- Certificate in Medical Editing and Journalism, Certificate course in Artificial Intelligence in Research.
Affiliation
Academic positions and as a professor of Obstetrics the past 10 years.
Membership
- Fellow of Royal College of Obstetrician and Gynecologists UK
- Member of the University Clinical Research Committee.
- Member of the University Ethics Review Committee.
- Member of the editorial board of SAFOM journal.
Professional Leadership
- In charge of the department of ObGye at Ziauddin Kemari campus for the last 20 years
- Supervisor and Examiner of FCPS of College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan
- Supervisor and Examiner of Diploma in Family Medicine.
- Supervisor and Examiner of MS program at Ziauddin University.
- Active participation in the development of the Curriculum of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Study guide of MBBS at Ziauddin University
Research Initiatives
- Principal investigator of Women Trail an international multicentric trial by the London School of Tropical Medicine. Completed.
- Publications of more than 45 papers in national and international journals.
Prof. Gynecology & Obstetrics Ziauddin University & Hospitals
Focal Person
Prof.Dr. Sumbul Sohail has been a consultant Obs and gynae at Ziauddin University Hospital for the past 21 years, she is also an executive member of the research wing for Obs and Gynae. In 2001 Dr. Sumbul was elected as General Secretary Pakistan Menopause Society till date. On the other hand, she is also Chairperson of Research and Publications at the South Asian Federation of Menopause. She is very competent and skilled in Instrumental Vaginal Delivery by Use of the Kiwi Cup. In addition, she is also been contributing to society with her impact full National and International publications.
Memberships
- General Secretary Pakistan Menopause Society 2001
- Examiner and Paper Setter College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) 2005
- Chairperson of Research and Publications at the South Asian Federation of Menopause
- Professor in obstetrics and gynecology has nineteen years of post-qualification experience in Pakistan as well as abroad
- She has a special research interest and has written several research articles and case reports in national and international journals and has ongoing research in progress. She worked as a member of the Women’s trial team which is an international multicenter trial by the London School of Tropical Medicine.
- She has a keen interest in teaching of undergraduate and postgraduates and has earned a diploma in health professional education. She has organized and facilitated workshops and CME activities in Saudi Arabia as well as Pakistan. Dr.Malik is a dedicated physician interested in reproductive medicine, feto-maternal medicine, and laparoscopy.
- Diploma in Clinical health professional education
- Diploma in gynecological laparoscopy by the University of Schlesing Holstein- Keil Germany.
- Advance Reproductive Technique course from GIVF
- Examiner of Diploma in Family Medicine at ZiauddinUniversity
- Examiner of MS programme at Ziauddin University
- Examiner of undergraduate programme in several Medical Universities in Karachi.
Memberships:
- Fellow and member of CPSP
- Lifelong member of SOGP
- Lifelong member of FIGO
- Worked as a member of hospital administration committee
- Worked as member of quality control committee
- Ex-member of infection control committee.
- Currently working as a member of postgraduate teaching committee
- Member of team of Facilitators for organizing and conducting regular hands-on- training workshops on emergency maternal and neonatal care EMNOC, family planning workshop, and E. MOTIVE workshop.
Associate professor (Obstetrician & Gynaecologist )has 19 years’ experience of working at Ziauddin University & hospital. She has a special interest in research and many publications have been published in national and international journals. She is teaching undergraduates (MBBS) & postgraduates (FCPS, MRCOG). She also has an extraordinary interest in fetomaternal medicine.
Membership:
- Fellow of College of Physicians and Surgeons (CPSP)
- Member of Royal College of Obstetrician & Gynaecologists (RCOG)
- Ex-member of Clinal Research Committee Ziauddin University
- Supervisor approved by CPSP
- Facilitated regular hands-on training workshops on Emergency Maternal and Neonatal Care (EMNOC) at Ziauddin University Hospital. These workshops, spanning three days, cover essential emergency obstetric skills through a structured curriculum comprising ten modules, aiming for the 87th workshop in September 2024.
- Principal investigator (P. I) from Ziauddin memorial hospital for international randomized women’s trial for PPH.
Associate professor and consultant (Obstetrician & Gynaecologist) at Dr. Ziauddin University and Hospital, has experience in this field last 19 years. She is a dedicated teacher involved in teaching undergraduates and postgraduates for the past 12 years. She is also actively involved in organizing and facilitating various, attending conferences conducting research, and having different publications in national journals.
Examiner of MS & MD program at Ziauddin University
Examiner of the undergraduate medical program in various medical universities in Karachi
Membership
- Fellow and member of CPSP
- Lifelong member of SGOP
- Facilitated regular hands-on training workshops in Emergency maternal and neonatal care ( EMNOC) at Ziauddin University Hospital, family planning and E.MOTIVE workshop
- Principal investigator (P.I) from Ziauddin North Nazimabad campus
- Hospital for international randomized women trial for PPH.
Assistant Professor and Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Ziauddin University Hospital. Joined Ziauddin Hospital in 2010 as MS trainee and completed her degree in 2016.Passed MRCOG part 1 in 2019. She has a keen interest in clinical research and published articles in national journals and one international publication. Regular Facilitator, coordinator, and master trainer of EMNOC hands-on workshop since 2015 till date.Expert in arranging workshops for undergraduates and postgraduates.Involved in regular teaching of undergraduates.Working in the field of OBGY for more than 20 years (14 years in Ziauddin).Special interest in subfertility. Other responsibilities include a compilation of monthly statistics of the Gynae and the Obs department at Ziauddin Hospital.
Member
lifetime member of SOGP and PUGA.
Research Initiatives
Presented research papers in national symposiums.
Associate Professor .13 years of work experience in Ziauddin University & Hospitals Teaching undergraduates and postgraduates.Active participation in research and 20 publications in national and international journals.
Membership
- Fellow of College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (FCPS)
- Special interest in laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy.Diploma in Gynecological laparoscopy by University of Schlesing Holstein -Kiel Germany, Certification by MIS Academy Dubai.
Organized and conducted Laparoscopic Workshops
- 20-JAN-2018: Organized hands-on laparoscopic gynecology surgery workshop with Dr. IAN. SCUDANMORE, consultant obstetrician, clinical director of women and children’s services at LEICESTERS Hospital, at Ziauddin Hospital Clifton
- 2.21-02-2019 to 29-02-2019: Organized hands-on laparoscopic gynecology surgery workshop at Ziauddin hospital Clifton. Live laparoscopic hysterectomies transmitted from the theater.
- 3.15-05-2022: Organized hands-on laparoscopic gynecology surgery workshop at Ziauddin Hospital Clifton.
- Organized Ambulatory gynecology workshop.Live operative Hysteroscopic endometrial ablations transmitted from the theatre in collaboration with I.R.C, RCOG Pakistan.22 Oct 2023.
Assistant Professor with extensive experience of over 21 years of in Obstetrics and Gynecology working for various renowned organizations such as Dr.Ziauddin University and Hospital Karachi, Ministry of Hospitals in Oman, and Aga Khan University and Hospital, Karachi among others. She has been engaged in teaching undergraduate and post-graduate medical students. Furthermore, she has organized and facilitated workshops related to awareness of women’s health issues including hands-on training workshops on emergency maternal and neonatal care EMNOC, family planning workshops, and an E. MOTIVE workshop.
She has written several research articles for national and international journals and she is currently doing her research on the betterment of women’s health which will be published soon. She has a particular interest in reproductive medicine and related research.
Memberships
- Member of College of Physicians and Surgeons (CPSP)
- Masters in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Dr. Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
- Diploma in Reproductive Medicine, Keil, Germany
- Diploma in Reproductive Medicine from GIVF – Society for Reproductive Medicine
- Basic Ultrasound
Course from Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center
(JPMC), Karachi
- Lifelong member of International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics plans. Completion of MRCOG and research in OBGY
- ConsultantObstetrician&Gynaecologis
- Member College of Physicians&Surgeons
- Life member Menopause Society
- Member American Institute of Ultrasound Medicines(MAIUM)
- MS (Dr Ziauddin University)
- Has extensive 20 years clinical and practical experience
- Currently conducting and participating regular hands-on training workshops on
- for undergraduates.
- Running contraceptive clinic at Ziauddin Memorial Hospital.
- Have several publications in national and international journals
Senior Registrar and Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Ziauddin Hospital, with extensive experience in clinical practice, teaching, and research. Actively involved in educational activities for students and postgraduates.Interested in Laparoscopic surgeries and Subspecialty gynecological oncology.
Membership
- Competent Consultant FCPS (Fellowship of College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan)
- 6-month training in Ultrasonography from JPMC (Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center).
- Cleared MRCOG part 2 Examination.
- Speaker at International Conferences.
- Contributed to multiple research projects and achieved Certificates in educational methodology and multiple other courses.
- Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist
- Senior Registrar and teaching faculty at Ziauddin University Hospital
- Associated with the obstetrics and gynecology department at Ziauddin University Hospital since 2014
Membership
- Fellow of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan
- Member of the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynecology UK
- Member of Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology Pakistan
Professional Leadership
- As a faculty at Ziauddin University Hospital, teaching undergraduate medical students and postgraduate trainees since 2021.
- Organized the MRCOG part 3 mock exam at Ziauddin University Hospital in collaboration with RCOG IRC Pakistan and Chairman Liaison Committee UK
- Organized the first Feto Maternal Symposium at Ziauddin University Hospital and Postpartum Hemorrhage Workshop for healthcare providers at Ziauddin Memorial Hospital.
- Co-principal investigator for FIGO Leadership Development Initiative Project at Ziauddin University Hospital and leading the Preeclampsia Registry at Ziauddin Memorial Hospital.
- Published research papers in national and international journals
Senior Registrar and consultant Obstetrician and Gynecology at Ziauddin Hospital for
the last 2.5 years, with extensive experience in clinical practice, teaching, and research. Actively involved in the education of undergraduate and postgraduate students. She has a keen interest in the field of reproductive medicine and is involved in research in reproductive medicine as well as maternal and child health. Dr.Shaikh has a special interest in medical education and has attended several workshops on recent advances in medical education.
Membership
- Consultant FCPS (Fellow of College of Physicians and Surgeons)
- Member of a team of Facilitators for organizing and conducting regular hands-on training workshops on family planning at Ziauddin University.
A multidisciplinary team at Ziauddin University consisting of the following departments is participating with the aim of taking forward the aim of Dr. Aijaz Fatima as a tribute for her outstanding services and passion.
At the Dr. Aijaz Fatima Women & Children Centre, our primary aim is to reduce maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity while promoting sexual and reproductive health. We’re committed to enhancing accessibility, equity, quality, and continuity of care, which entails integrated healthcare programmes for reproductive health education, family planning, lactation management, and screening for various obstetrics and gynaecological conditions. We prioritise women and child health outcomes through multidisciplinary collaboration and community engagement. Our focus is on promoting optimal health by advocating for evidence-based practices and utilising technological advancements.
The Department of Paediatrics is well reputed for rendering quality clinical and academic services. We aim to advance these services under the umbrella of AFWCC by providing low-cost quality health care to the community and emphasising connectivity with remote areas across Sindh through the establishment of telehealth clinics.
Through its contribution to AFWCC, the Department of Paediatrics will endeavour to play a pivotal role in conducting research projects to identify and implement interventions addressing major child health issues in the community, such as malnutrition, diarrhoea, pneumonia, and other infectious illnesses. In pursuance of our commitment to provide quality education, we aim to train health professionals who would serve in remote areas across the province. The Department of Paediatrics will collaborate with the eight other disciplines included in the AFWCC to render clinical services, promote health education, and conduct research in the community.
The Department of Family Medicine was established in 1995, making Ziauddin University a pioneer in the field of Family Medicine in Pakistan. With a steadfast commitment to the community to provide care to families at one stop in a cost-effective manner, Family Medicine is the cornerstone of a strong, resilient healthcare system, fostering healthier and happier lives. We offer personalised care, preventive strategies, and compassionate support for every member of the family. In the ever-changing landscape of healthcare, we’re the steadfast anchors. Having familiar faces for the family, family physicians stand as a beacon of support, from prenatal care to postpartum support, identifying nutritional needs to giving mental health support and preventing chronic diseases, hence optimising the health outcomes for women and children. Under AFWCC, we promise to provide care, trust, and confidence to women and children. We’re not just healthcare providers; we’re the guardians of well-being, dedicated to nurturing women and children with the boundless love and unwavering expertise they deserve. Under the umbrella of AFWCC, we aspire to empower communities through health enlightenment! Our awareness camps fuel knowledge, our care nurtures well-being, and our research ignites innovation, all for a healthier, brighter tomorrow.
Nursing department holds the distinction of being the initial academic unit established within Ziauddin University. It was founded in 1986, marking the beginning of academic programmes offered by the university. While empowering individuals through professional education in nursing and midwifery, we also render services to the community at a grass root level. We also work with communities to address women’s and children’s health issues, as well as conduct supervised community-based research on women and child issues.
ZUFONAM aims to contribute significantly to the objectives of the AFWCC by delivering evidence-based services, such as antenatal and postnatal clinics, growth monitoring and nutrition services, women and child immunisation programmes, family planning services, and mental health support. The department also aims to improve the health and well-being of women and children in the community through research initiatives focusing on emerging health issues in sexual, reproductive, and mental health. Faculty members will be academically prepared to support AFWCC activities, and formal and informal training and awareness campaigns will be conducted at a grass-roots level.
The College of Clinical Psychology is committed to delivering exceptional education and clinical services, characterised by a dedication to quality and innovation. Our mission is to foster an inclusive community that values integrity, freedom, and discovery. We are driven by a passion for excellence in teaching, research, and public service. In line with this ethos, we recognise the critical importance of addressing the needs of women and children in our society. By implementing specialised training programmes for mental health professionals focusing on the specific needs of women and children and conducting cutting-edge research on mental health issues affecting women and children, we aim to advance understanding and develop effective interventions. We will actively engage in community outreach activities to promote the well-being and empowerment of women and children. Moreover, we will collaborate with other organisations and stakeholders to advocate for policies and practices that support the rights and needs of women and children. One of our contributions will be leveraging the resources and expertise within our department to provide comprehensive support and advocacy for women and children locally.
The College of Human Nutrition and Dietetics is committed to its mission of establishing internationally comparable education programmes in Human Nutrition and Dietetics, underpinned by rigorous research for evidence-based solutions. With a focus on collaboration with industry to develop nutrition-promoting products and services and engaging stakeholders in projects promoting healthy lifestyles, the college is at the forefront of shaping the future of nutrition science. Offering both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address contemporary challenges in nutrition and dietetics, preparing them for impactful careers in the field.
Furthermore, the college dedicates itself to significantly contributing to women’s and children’s health within the community. In the AFWCC initiative, the college will actively apply strategies to enhance the health of women and children by tackling undernutrition, anaemia, micronutrient deficiencies, and overweight issues, particularly among pregnant and breastfeeding women, while also addressing low birth weight in newborns. Additionally, the college endeavours to implement widespread, evidence-based nutrition programmes and services that prioritise equity, focusing on the critical periods of preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum care for women.
Public Health is related to preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health, so building healthy communities requires a dynamic, equitable public health system that puts women’s and children’s health first. This vision includes an all-encompassing strategy that tackles the socioeconomic determinants of health, guarantees quality healthcare service accessibility, and cultivates a nurturing atmosphere for optimum health and growth. We can end the cycle of poverty, lessen health inequities, and provide the means for future generations to prosper if we prioritise mother and child health.
Our vision states that every mother and child should have access to primary health care services, such as safe delivery practices, prenatal care, and evidence-based treatments for sickness prevention and treatment. Prioritising prevention, early intervention, and community-based treatment, public health projects use cutting-edge technologies and collaborations to reach underserved communities. By placing a high priority on women and child health, we can start a positive chain reaction that will accelerate the development of a healthy society in which every person can realise their full potential.
The Research Department is a directorate to form a central hub for all research activities by the faculty of health sciences that participate in the policy making, governance, oversight, and conduct of research processes across ZU. In this regard, there has been a phenomenal upgrade of the multidisciplinary high technology research laboratories, with a striking uplift in structured postgraduate teaching and training programmes. Clinical evidence-based research is promoted to update disease trends and risk factors, generating data for preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategic planning. The era of precision medicine and personalised therapy has emerged due to technological advances with insight into the molecular genetic mechanisms of diseases. Rooted in our commitment to excellence in education and research, we are at the forefront of the rapidly evolving field of molecular medicine, focusing on the investigation of diseases at the molecular level. By bridging the gap between basic science and clinical practice, we aim to produce a new generation of physician scientists who are equipped for the advancement of medical knowledge and the improvement of patient care pertaining to women and child health at AFWCC. There would be large scale analysis of molecular datasets of genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. Based on genetic and molecular profiling, the research would be focused on personalised treatment approaches for evidence-based solutions. Furthermore, we will provide training to healthcare professionals, researchers, and students. Collaboration with other partner departments within the women and children centre, as well as external research institutions and organisations. Epidemiological and Clinical research will be promoted through the Research Department with support in the planning and development of research proposals to generate data for public health planning and control of diseases. It will accelerate the advancement of knowledge to favour the promotion of health, improvement of care, and quality of life for women and children.
The Office for Research, Innovation, & Commercialization (ORIC) at Ziauddin University plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and excellence within the institution. ORIC collaborates with various departments, including the Clinical Trial Unit (CTU), to advance healthcare solutions and promote well-being for all ages, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG-3).
Within the Dr. Aijaz Fatima Woman and Child Care Centre (AFWCC), ORIC’s primary goal is to lead research initiatives that address critical health challenges faced by women and children in Pakistan. This includes tackling high maternal and child mortality rates, birth complications, malnutrition, and lack of access to healthcare.
To achieve these goals, ORIC employs strategies that emphasise accessibility, equity, and integrated healthcare programmes. This involves facilitating multidisciplinary research projects, securing funding for innovative studies, and forming partnerships with local and international organisations. ORIC ensures that its research is inclusive, targeting underserved communities to make healthcare accessible to all.
ORIC’s research priorities for AFWCC include improving women’s health, addressing child nutrition and malnutrition, and combating stunting. Through multidisciplinary collaboration with clinicians and faculties and active community engagement, ORIC ensures that its research addresses the most pressing health issues and promotes overall community well-being.
ORIC at Ziauddin University strives to improve local healthcare outcomes and influence health policies on a larger scale. Through its dedication to research and innovation, ORIC aims to create a healthier future for all, ensuring better health and well-being for women and children.
1. Research and Academic Contributions
The Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at Ziauddin University and Hospital is recognized for its significant contributions to women's health. Within our department, there is a valued focus on extensive research and academic endeavors that have advanced the field. Research interests within the department cover a wide range of women's health issues, including domestic violence during pregnancy, metabolic syndrome, anxiety disorders in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), menopause-related implications, and ovarian cancer among post-menopausal women. The findings from this research have been presented at prestigious international conferences such as the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) Conference in Oman, London, and Dhaka, as well as the South East Asian Federation of Menopause Conference in Singapore and Tokyo. These presentations not only contribute to the global body of knowledge in women's health but also highlight the significant issues faced by women in Pakistan and South Asia.
2. Certifications and Collaborations
The department takes immense pride in the certification with the Wellbeing of Women (WOW) accreditation, showcasing our commitment to prioritizing women's health and empowerment through comprehensive and inclusive initiatives. This accreditation underscores our department's dedication to advancing the well-being of women by ensuring high-quality healthcare services and support systems.
Moreover, our department has fostered collaborations with esteemed organizations such as the Special Olympics. This collaboration reflects our commitment to promoting the holistic well-being of women and marginalized populations, underscores our department's values of inclusivity and compassion in healthcare delivery.
Through these initiatives, the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at Ziauddin University and Hospital continues to make significant strides in advancing women's health and empowerment, both within our local community and beyond.
3. Emergency Maternal and Neonatal Care (EMNOC) Workshops
Dr. Rubina Hussain is dedicated to enhancing emergency obstetric care skills among medical students and healthcare providers. Since 2009, she has been conducting regular hands-on training workshops on Emergency Maternal and Neonatal Care (EMNOC) at Ziauddin University Hospital. These workshops, spanning three days, cover essential emergency obstetric skills through a structured curriculum comprising ten modules. Dr. Rubina has conducted numerous workshops, with the 75th workshop held in February 2021, and plans for the 87th workshop in September 2024. Through these training initiatives, she has significantly contributed to improving the quality of emergency obstetric care and reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates in Pakistan.
4. Research done by the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics
The Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics is at the forefront of conducting extensive research aimed at advancing women's health. With a dedicated team of researchers and clinicians, the department actively engages in a wide array of research initiatives spanning various facets of gynecological and obstetric care. From exploring innovative treatment modalities for gynecological cancers to investigating the efficacy of prenatal screening methods, the department's research endeavors are diverse and impactful. Additionally, the department collaborates with national and international institutions to contribute to the global body of knowledge in women's healthcare. Through its commitment to cutting-edge research, the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics continuously strives to improve patient outcomes, enhance medical practices, and shape the future of women's health on both local and global scales.
Evaluating the use of an FDA-cleared, novel vaginal speculum for gynecologic procedures
This project aimed to evaluate the practicality and efficacy of a newly FDA-cleared vaginal speculum for gynecologic procedures. Led by Principal Investigator Dr. Rubina Hussain and Co-Principal Investigator Dr. Fatima Jehangir, the study sought to determine whether the novel speculum could enhance patient comfort, improve procedural outcomes, and provide healthcare providers with a more ergonomic and efficient tool for gynecologic examinations and interventions. Through a prospective clinical study involving patients and healthcare provider feedback, the research aimed to assess the real-world usability and effectiveness of the new speculum compared to traditional specula, with the overarching goal of improving the quality of care for women undergoing gynecologic procedures at Ziauddin University and Hospital's Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics.