Islamabad Inaugurates New School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
The Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Syed Mustafa Kamal, officially inaugurated the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the Health Services Academy (HSA), Islamabad. This development marks a significant step in enhancing pharmaceutical education, research in public health, and workforce development within Pakistan’s healthcare sector.
During the inauguration, Mustafa Kamal emphasized Pakistan’s existing talent pool and institutional capabilities as foundations for establishing a stronger and more resilient health system domestically. He highlighted the critical role of educating competent doctors, pharmacists, and public health professionals who can serve society with integrity, professionalism, and responsibility.
The minister called for a strategic shift in health policy focus from treatment to prevention, stating, “Our goal should be to keep people healthy and prevent them from becoming patients.” He stressed that merely expanding hospital infrastructure would not sufficiently address the country’s healthcare challenges. Instead, investments must prioritize primary healthcare, disease prevention, and health promotion initiatives.
Mustafa Kamal further noted that a robust health system is essential not only for public wellbeing but also for Pakistan’s economic stability and sustainable development. He underscored the need for a trained, ethical, and prevention-oriented health workforce capable of protecting communities, promoting healthy lifestyles, and reducing disease burden before illnesses arise.
The Vice Chancellor of the Health Services Academy, Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan, remarked on the importance of pharmaceutical sciences as a vital component of the healthcare system. He expressed confidence that the newly established School of Pharmaceutical Sciences would enhance academic excellence and contribute meaningfully to policy development in pharmacy regulation and health systems strengthening.
This initiative reflects Pakistan’s commitment to advancing health education and research to build a more effective and sustainable healthcare infrastructure, ultimately improving public health outcomes across the country.