PESHAWAR: Prof Zulfiqar A Bhutta has said that research publications alone are not sufficient as their true value lies in their impact on policymaking, healthcare systems and meaningful improvements in human lives.
Speaking at a seminar at Khyber Medical University here the other day, he urged institutions to align their research with local needs while elevating it to meet global standards, according to a statement.
He highlighted the importance of early childhood education, which he described as the foundation of human development and consciousness. He said that every university bore the responsibility of positively impacting society through its scientific and research work.
Prof Zulfiqar highlighted the significance of scientific inquiry during crises, the pursuit of indigenous solutions and inter-institutional collaboration.
Encouraging young researchers, he remarked that youth had the power to change the world. “We need scientists, who are driven by innovation, compassion and purpose,” he added.
The session also included a lively question and answer segment where faculty members raised questions related to research funding, international collaborations, policy impact and mentorship for young professionals.
Prof Zulfiqar is an internationally recognised Pakistani clinician and researcher. He has made revolutionary contribution to the field of maternal, newborn and child health. He is currently serving as co-director of Centre for Global Child Health at SickKids Foundation, Toronto, Canada, and works as senior scientist with Child Health Evaluative Sciences Programme.
His research and practical works have laid foundation for various local programmes in South Asia and Africa, in addition to influencing global health policies at World Health Organisation. He is also the founding director of Institute for Global Health and Development at Aga Khan University and led Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health from 2012 to 2024.
KMU Vice-chancellor Prof Ziaul Haq expressed gratitude to Prof Zulfiqar for his inspirational presence and praised his global contribution to healthcare. He stated that KMU was fully committed to strengthening its research capacity and playing a knowledge-based role in societal development.
The academic session concluded with renewed enthusiasm and a shared commitment by the faculty to position KMU as a leading institution in addressing global health challenges through research, policy formulation, and academic excellence.
Published in Dawn, April 26th, 2025
