Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique announced on Saturday the provincial government’s ambitious plan to revolutionize healthcare through digital transformation and advanced medical research. Speaking as chief guest at the National Research and Innovation Conference 2025 at King Edward Medical University (KEMU), Rafique outlined a vision incorporating smart hospitals, telemedicine networks, and AI integration into clinical practice.
Under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, Punjab has launched landmark initiatives including the Children’s Heart Surgery Programme, Dialysis Programme, and mobile “Clinic on Wheels” services. The minister highlighted the establishment of premier specialty institutions like the Nawaz Sharif Institute of Cancer Treatment and Research, noting, “We’re embedding AI education in medical curricula and creating dedicated research labs across colleges to foster innovation.”
Academic leaders including KEMU Vice Chancellor Professor Mahmood Ayaz and FJMU’s Professor Khalid Masood Gondal applauded Punjab’s healthcare advancements, with Gondal praising the conference for showcasing local medical talent. The event concluded with Rafique awarding gold medals and cash prizes to top-performing students after reviewing innovative medical projects at exhibition stalls.
The conference brought together faculty, students, and healthcare professionals, signaling Punjab’s commitment to positioning itself as a leader in medical technology and evidence-based care. These reforms aim to not only elevate healthcare standards but also enhance Pakistan’s contributions to global medical research and practice.