Lahore: In a landmark development, the University of Health Sciences Lahore and the University of Health Sciences Istanbul have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation in medical education and research. The agreement was inked during a significant meeting of faculty members from both institutions, chaired by Punjab’s Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique from Istanbul.
According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab announcement issued on 07 August 2024, the meeting saw participation from key academic leaders including Vice Chancellor Professor Ahsan Waheed Rathor and Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Nadia Naseem from Lahore, alongside their counterparts from Istanbul. The event was marked by discussions on educational advancements and mutual interests in the medical field.
Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique, speaking from Istanbul, highlighted the deep-rooted ties and shared values between Pakistan and Turkey, emphasizing the exemplary status of Turkey’s health system globally. He noted the recent achievements in Punjab’s healthcare infrastructure, including the launch of the first air ambulance service and the establishment of specialized institutes for cancer and cardiology.
Dr. Oner Guner, Secretary General of Istanbul University of Health Sciences, welcomed the Pakistani delegation and underscored the university’s role in advancing medical research and education since its establishment under Sultan Abdul Hamid VIII. He expressed a keen interest in collaborating on postgraduate programs with UHS Lahore.
The meeting also served as a platform for both universities to explore ways to further academic relations, with a special focus on postgraduate opportunities and faculty exchanges. Vice Chancellor Rathor expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and extended an invitation to continue collaborative efforts.
The session concluded with the presentation of a commemorative shield to Minister Rafique, symbolizing the strengthened ties and shared objectives between the two institutions.