Commend contributions of Women Physicians in health services
Women’s Day Celebrations at FJMU
LAHORE: Fatima Jinnah Medical University organized a meeting to celebrate the International Women’s Day at its campus on March 15th 2025. Punjab Health Minister Punjab, Mr. Khawaja Salman Rafique, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Parliamentarians of Punjab Assembly, including Chairman of the Standing Committee on SHC&ME Department Mr. Adnan Afzal Chatha, Parliamentary Secretary Health Ms. Rushda Lodhi, Ms. Sonia Aasha (MPA), Ms. Sumbal Malik (MPA), and Mr. Shahbaz Khokhar (MPA), were also present. Dr. Noor Amna Malik, Managing Director, National Academy of Higher Education, HEC, joined the event online and emphasized the significance of women’s empowerment.
In his address Khawaja Salman Rafique commend the contributions of female physicians and emphasized the importance of gender equality as they play a significant role in a nation’s development. He highlighted that Islam has been a guiding force in granting women respect and dignity. He cited the example of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, a great woman in Pakistani politics. His take home message was that men must respect women, and only through a balanced society can a nation truly progress.
Parliamentarian Mr. Shahbaz Khokhar highlighted the importance of daughters and women. According to Islamic teachings, daughters are indeed considered a blessing from Allah. He emphasized the value of treating daughters with kindness, respect, and care.
Parliamentarian Ms. Sumbal Malik highlighted the significance of women’s rights. He recognized the importance of women’s contributions and empowerment every day. He encouraged to learn from the exemplary life and character of Hazrat Syeda Fatima Zahra (R.A).
Parliamentarian Ms. Sonia Aasha commended the work being done by Chief Minister Punjab for women’s empowerment. She has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting women’s rights and economic empowerment, she added.
Parliamentarian Ms. Rushda Lodhi paid tribute to Chief Minister Punjab and Khawaja Salman Rafiq. She highlighted the significance of women’s empowerment and the importance of supportive individuals in their lives. She emphasized the value of having encouraging partners, family members, or mentors who help women achieve their goals. She also acknowledged Almighty Allah’s gift of empowerment to women.
Mr. Adnan Afzal Chatha, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Specialized Health Care and Medical Education Department, highlighted the invaluable contributions of women to Pakistan. He acknowledged the pivotal role of Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah in the country’s founding and admired Pakistani doctors serving globally. He emphasized the need to adapt to modern technology and face emerging challenges. He commended Chief Minister Punjab’s initiatives, which include courses exclusively for women in e-commerce, IT, and other sectors. These programs aim to empower women with digital skills, increase employability, and provide international certifications from renowned organizations like Microsoft, Adobe etc.
Former Vice-Chancellors Prof. Shireen Khawar, Prof. Shamsa Humayun, former Principal Prof. Noreen Akmal, Deans Prof. Munazza Iqbal, Prof. Muniza Qayyum, Principal Prof. Abdul Hamid, Registrar Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nadeem, Chairperson Medicine/ Director Quality Enhancement Cell Prof. Bilquis Shabbir, President Medical Women Association of Pakistan Dr. Wajeeha Rizwan, female faculty members, and a large number of students participated in the event.
Earlier in his welcome address Prof. Khalid Masood Gondal, Vice Chancellor FJMU commended the contributions of women healthcare professionals. FJMU, he said was a shining example of women’s empowerment. He also highlighted the importance of women’s rights in Islam, noting that women have been given a high status and that Allah Almighty has placed heaven under the feet of mothers and sent daughters as blessings. He specially requested the Chief Minister of Punjab for the inauguration of a gymnasium and swimming pool, as well as the construction of a new auditorium at FJMU. This request aims to enhance the university’s infrastructure and provide better facilities for its students, he added.
