The International Nurses and Midwives Day Conference, hosted by the Aga Khan University School of Nursing and Midwifery (AKU-SONAM) in collaboration with the Division of Nursing Services, Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), successfully convened to commemorate the invaluable contributions of nurses and midwives worldwide.
The conference, titled "Economy and Environment: Impact through Nursing and Midwifery care", highlighted the pivotal role healthcare professionals play in shaping economies and environmental sustainability.
The conference, held on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at the AKU Stadium Road campus in Karachi, featured distinguished speakers and experts in the field who offered insights and perspectives on the diverse benefits of nursing and midwifery care.
Mr Noor Ahmed Samoo, Secretary, Department of Universities and Boards, Government of Sindh, graced the event as the Chief Guest. His presence added significant value to the discussions surrounding the intersection of healthcare, economy, and environment. “The efforts we see at the AKU-SONAM in the nursing and midwifery sectors have set an admirable benchmark and become a role model in the country” said Mr Samoo.
“We are grateful to the University in providing us assistance in our common cause of advancing nursing and midwifery practices across the country. According to WHO, there are 15 million vacancies globally for healthcare workers, and so it can have a huge impact on the economy worldwide.”
As Pakistan’s first private institution to establish a School of Nursing and Midwifery, the AKU-SONAM faculty has made significant contributions in the field through its outstanding academic services, research work, and awareness programmes.
Esteemed speakers delivered keynote addresses and talks, including Dr Farhat Abbas, CEO of AKUH, who shared profound insights into the economic dimensions of nursing and midwifery care, stressing their role in driving positive healthcare outcomes and economic growth. Meanwhile, Ms Khairunnissa Hooda, Chief Nursing Officer at AKUH, shed light on the critical contributions of nurses in patient care, hospital management, and healthcare system sustainability. Furthermore, Dr Tazeen Saeed Ali, Interim Dean of AKU-SONAM, emphasized the importance of nursing and midwifery education in fostering a sustainable healthcare workforce and addressing environmental challenges.
The conference provided a platform for engaging discussions, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among healthcare professionals, policymakers, educators, and stakeholders. Attendees actively participated in interactive sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities to further the conversation about nursing and midwifery's impact on the economy and the environment.
"Investing in nursing and midwifery is not only beneficial for healthcare but also for society as a whole. By doing so, we invest in the health and wellbeing of the future generations, create opportunities for individuals to lead healthy, productive lives, and contribute to sustainable development,” said Dr Tazeen Saeed Ali, Interim Dean of AKU-SONAM.
"Their tireless efforts and commitment to excellence are instrumental and leading, innovating, advocating and navigating best practices for a healthier future for all in Pakistan." added Khairunnissa Hooda, Chief Nursing Officer, AKUH.
The International Nurses & Midwives Day Conference underscored the importance of recognizing and supporting the contributions of nurses and midwives in building resilient and sustainable healthcare systems for the benefit of society as a whole.