MWAP celebrates Int’l Women’s Day with focus on gender equity in healthcare

(Web Desk): The Medical Women Association of Pakistan (MWAP) celebrated International Women’s Day with a vibrant event that highlighted the importance of equity and inclusivity in healthcare.

The gathering was graced by esteemed guests of honor, including Rushdah Lodhi, Parliamentary Secretary; Salma Butt, MPA; Senator Bushra Butt; and former Health Minister Prof. Javed Akram. Prof. Shamsa Humayun and a large number of senior doctors were also present at the occasion.

After the recitation of the Holy Quran and the national anthem, the event commenced with a warm welcome from Prof. Mahwish Arooj, Principal of UOL and Senior Vice President of the Medical Women's Association of Pakistan. She emphasized the urgent need to accelerate efforts towards achieving gender equity and inclusivity in the medical field.

Dr. Wajiha Rizwan, President of MWAP, expressed her gratitude to the University of Lahore for their unwavering support and hospitality. She also acknowledged the dedication of her team and commended the Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, for its progressive initiatives aimed at health and women empowerment.

During her address, Dr. Wajiha brought attention to the critical shortage of residential facilities for women doctors in public hospitals. She called for the construction and renovation of hostels and residences dedicated to women health professionals, especially postgraduate residents and senior faculty members. Additionally, she advocated for the establishment of 24-hour daycare centers, lactation rooms, and prayer areas to support women in the healthcare workforce.

Dr. Wajiha also outlined MWAP’s mission to facilitate women health professionals and promote academic and research opportunities within the field. The event featured a panel discussion chaired by Rushda Lodhi and co-chaired by Prof. Shamsa Humayun, Senior Vice President of MWAP.

The Chief Guest, Shahnaz Raoof, congratulated Dr. Wajiha Rizwan and her team for their commitment to MWAP and its goals. Recognizing exceptional contributions to the field, renowned researcher Prof. Shakila Zaman was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Additionally, the Impactful Woman Leader Awards for 2024 were announced by Prof. Saima Batool and Aisha Sajid. The awardees included Prof. Haleema Yasmin, Prof. Mohsina Noor, Prof. Lubna Kamani, Prof. Mah Muneer, Prof. Naseem, Prof. Saba Mehsud, Prof. Sayeda Asiya Bukhari, Dr. Nabiha Farasat, Prof. Tayyaba Khawer Butt, Prof. Zohra Khanum, and Prof. Shizra Nadeem from all provinces.

Notable guests present included Prof. Javeria Manan, Prof. Attia Mubarak (Lifetime Achievement Award recipient of 2023), Prof. Gohar Wajid (WHO), Prof. Ayesha Humayun, Prof. Bilqees Shabbir, Prof. Nabila Talat, Prof. Tayyeba Waseem, Prof. Nazish Imran, Prof. Somia Iqtidar, Prof. Noreen Akmal, Mr. Shaukat Javed, Dr. Izhar, Dr. Ghazala Moeen, and Nadeem Anjum.

Shahnaz Rauf, the chief guest, along with the other guests of honor, distributed the awards. The event attracted a large audience, including students, faculty, and distinguished guests from across the country.

Prof. Saima, the advisor of MWAP, concluded the event with a heartfelt vote of thanks, reiterating the significance of unity and collaboration in advancing the cause of women in healthcare.