Karachi, Caretaker Chief Minister of Sindh, Justice (R) Maqbool Baqir, has raised concerns over the imbalance in the ratio of doctors to paramedics in Pakistan, noting the country’s tendency to produce more doctors relative to nurses, midwives, Lady Health Visitors (LHVs), and medical technicians. Addressing this issue, he spoke at the inauguration of a Skill Lab for Pediatric and Neonatal Care Technician course at the College of Nursing, Kohi Goth, Malir. The event was attended by notable figures including Prof. Tipu Sultan, Chairman of Attia & Zafar Foundation and Charitable Trust, Dr. Shershah Syed, and UNICEF Sindh Field Office Chief Mr. Prem Bahadur Chand.

According to Sindh Chief Minister House, the skewed ratio of healthcare professionals is a significant challenge for Pakistan, particularly in light of the country’s high infant mortality rate. He pointed out that one in every 14 Pakistani children does not survive past their fifth birthday, a statistic that is worsened by the lack of proper and timely preventive treatment. To address this issue, the establishment of the College of Nursing and the initiation of the technician course are seen as crucial steps. He expressed hope that the institute would produce skilled pediatric and neonatal technicians, which could help reduce infant and neonatal mortality rates.

Justice Baqir also acknowledged the support of UNICEF and the Department of Health in establishing the skill lab and launching the technician course, underscoring the Sindh government’s commitment to addressing challenges in the health sector. Prof. Tipu Sultan highlighted that the hospital, treating women and children free of charge, handles an average of 600 deliveries per month and offers free training for nurses and other technical courses.

The Chief Minister’s visit to various departments of the hospital and interactions with trainee nurses and technicians further demonstrated the government’s support for initiatives aimed at balancing the healthcare workforce and improving the overall quality of health services in Pakistan.