KARACHI: Pakistan’s first one-year Postgraduate Diploma Program in Thalassemia has been launched through a joint collaboration between Bahria University of Health Sciences Karachi, Saylani Welfare International Trust, and Sindh Blood Transfusion Authority.
The two-semester program aims to develop trained Thalassemia professionals through academic learning at Bahria University of Health Sciences and clinical training at Saylani Blood Bank & Thalassemia Center.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Secretary Sindh Blood Transfusion Authority Dr Durr-e-Naz Jamal emphasised the need for public awareness, trained doctors, and healthcare professionals to prevent Thalassemia. She termed the diploma program a valuable initiative and expressed hope that it would become a new ray of hope for suffering mothers and children.
She stressed the need for global recognition of the program and highlighted that artificial intelligence can further enhance its effectiveness. She also regretted the lack of expected cooperation from NADRA Mega Centers regarding pre-marital screening awareness.
Director General Bahria University of Health Sciences Karachi Vice Admiral Athar Mukhtar (retd) in his online address appreciated the efforts of the Blood Transfusion Authority and Saylani Welfare, saying that this first step would grow into a major movement. He emphasized collective efforts against Thalassemia to protect future generations.
Dean Health Sciences Prof Dr Shazia Shakoor and Principal Bahria University of Health Sciences Prof Dr Mehreen Latif briefed participants about the objectives and structure of the program, expressing confidence that it would produce highly skilled Thalassemia professionals within a year. Acting DG Commodore Owais Haider also participated in the ceremony.
Director Saylani Blood Bank & Thalassemia Center Dr Ghulam Sarwar highlighted the growing challenge of Thalassemia, stating that around 10,000 new cases are added annually, creating a serious health concern. He thanked Bahria University and Sindh Blood Transfusion Authority for their support and shared that Saylani Founder and Chairman Maulana Bashir Farooq Qadri remains deeply committed to preventing the disease.
Video messages from the heads of Hussaini Blood Bank, Muhammadi Blood Bank, and Kashif Iqbal Blood Bank & Thalassemia Center were also presented, appreciating the launch of the diploma program.
The ceremony was attended by Bahria University faculty members and scholars, along with Saylani Member Managing Committee Iqbal Qasimani, Imam Ahmed Raza University of Emerging Sciences nominee Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Rashid Kamal Ansari, and Director Prof Dr Faisal Afridi.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026