ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Medical and Dental College (IMDC), in collaboration with Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Medical University (SZABMU), has launched a clinical artificial intelligence (AI) healthcare certificate programme aimed at equipping healthcare professionals with the international standard skills.

The one-month weekend programme has started with participants from medical, dental, nursing and allied health sciences, including students, young doctors and other healthcare professionals.

The programme was inaugurated by SZABMU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Tanwir Khaliq.

Speaking on the occasion, the VC said artificial intelligence had become an important component of modern healthcare and medical education.

“This is the direction in which healthcare education is moving globally,” he said, adding that the university would continue supporting AI-based academic initiatives.

The programme has been designed and is being delivered by faculty from Ulster University, Belfast, under the leadership of Assistant Professor Dr Usman Hadi.

According to the organisers, the curriculum has been developed in line with evolving healthcare requirements in the United Kingdom, the United States and other advanced healthcare systems.

GAK HealthCare International Group Chief Executive Officer Yasir Khan Niazi said artificial intelligence was increasingly becoming an essential competency for healthcare professionals.

“Artificial intelligence is no longer the future of healthcare. It is the present,” he said.

According to the organisers, the programme aims to provide participants with practical knowledge of clinical AI applications and prepare them for technology-driven healthcare environments.

The World Health Organisation has identified artificial intelligence as a technology that can strengthen health systems, improve clinical decision-making and expand access to quality healthcare when implemented responsibly.

Many countries, particularly in Europe and the United Kingdom, are investing in developing AI-ready healthcare workforces.

Published in Dawn, August 9th, 2026