LAHORE:The International Women’s Day was celebrated under the auspices of Medical Women Association of Pakistan (MWAP) with a vibrant event that highlighted the importance of equity and inclusivity in healthcare. The urgent need to accelerate and make effective efforts towards achieving gender equity and inclusivity in the medical field was emphasised.
Parliamentary Secretary Rushdah Lodhi, MPA Salma Butt, Senator Bushra Butt, Mrs Shahnaz Rauf, former health minister Prof Dr Javed Akram, Prof Shamsa Humayun and a large number of senior doctors were present on the occasion.
MWAP President Dr Wajiha Rizwan expressed her gratitude to the University of Lahore (UoL) for their unwavering support and hospitality. She 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 women empowerment. 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 centres, lactation rooms and prayer areas to support women in the healthcare workforce.
MWAP Senior Vice President and Principal of UOL Prof Mahwish Arooj 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 Mrs Rushda Lodhi and co-chaired by Prof Shamsa Humayun, Senior Vice President of MWAP. Recognising exceptional contributions to the field, renowned researcher Prof Shakila Zaman was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition, MWAP advisor Prof. Saima and Aisha Sajid announced the Impactful Woman Leader Awards 2024 for 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. The event attracted a large audience, including students, faculty and distinguished guests from across the country.