Islamabad: In a significant step towards combating breast cancer in Pakistan, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Pink Ribbon Pakistan have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration aims to intensify awareness efforts about breast cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment across educational institutions nationwide.
According to Higher Education Commission of Pakistan announcement issued on 13 September 2024, the country faces the highest incidence of breast cancer in Asia, with over 10 million women at risk and more than 40,000 succumbing to the disease annually. In response, October will be observed as ‘PINKtober’, dedicated to widespread awareness activities in universities and colleges to educate students and mobilize them as advocates for this cause.
The MoU signing ceremony, held at the HEC Secretariat in Islamabad, was attended by Ms. Noor Amna Malik, Managing Director of the National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE), and Mr. Omer Aftab, CEO of Pink Ribbon Pakistan. Prof. Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum, Executive Director of HEC, served as the chief guest, highlighting the critical role of educational institutions in reducing the stigma attached to breast cancer and promoting preventive measures.
Ms. Malik emphasized the growing prevalence of breast cancer in Pakistan and the pivotal role of the higher education sector in driving awareness. “Through this MoU, we aim to equip students, faculty, and communities with the knowledge needed to combat this disease effectively,” she stated.
Furthermore, Pink Ribbon Pakistan committed to providing diagnostic and treatment support for breast cancer to HEC staff at both the head office and regional offices, including highly subsidized chemotherapy treatments at Pink Ribbon Hospital in Lahore.
The initiative will also feature preventive awareness sessions for faculty members, workshops for students, and the distribution of educational materials across universities. This partnership underscores both organizations’ commitment to improving community health and moving towards a breast cancer-free society in Pakistan.