KARACHI: In a major event hosted at Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), the Pro Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jehan Ara Hasan, underscored the essential role of research and technology in advancing Pakistan’s healthcare system. Speaking at the “Healthcare Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Business Opportunities” symposium, held at DUHS Ojha Campus, she emphasized how the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies can enhance patient care, diagnostics, and medical research.
The symposium, organized by the Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialization (ORIC) at DUHS in collaboration with OPEN (Organization of Pakistani Entrepreneurs of North America), brought together prominent healthcare professionals, academicians, and entrepreneurs. This one-day event attracted over 200 participants, making it a crucial platform for discussing the future of healthcare and business opportunities in the sector.
Innovative startups and entrepreneurial spirit
One of the key highlights of the event was the “Startup Corridor,” where over 15 innovative startups from DUHS displayed their ideas and solutions. The startups, representing various departments within the university, demonstrated a range of creative projects aimed at addressing the challenges faced by the healthcare industry. The display of these entrepreneurial ventures caught the attention of both local and international attendees, reflecting the growing spirit of innovation at DUHS.
AI, innovation, and entrepreneurship: Shaping the future of healthcare
Prof. Jehan Ara Hasan, in her address, praised the efforts of DUHS and its partnership with OPEN in fostering a culture of research-driven innovation and entrepreneurship. She noted:
“Through ORIC, DUHS is committed to shaping the future of healthcare in Pakistan by equipping students and professionals with the knowledge and tools to drive innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector.”
The symposium also featured expert discussions from distinguished panelists, including Dr. Adeel Ahmed, Managing Partner at Advantage Health, and Dr. Babar Rao, President of APPNA 2026. These experts highlighted the importance of clinician-led innovation and the potential for global academic and business collaborations in advancing healthcare startups in Pakistan.
Dr. Bilal Hamid, Professor and Transplant Hepatologist at the University of California, San Francisco, emphasized how the judicious application of AI and digital technologies could significantly improve patient care and research outcomes.
“Technology-driven solutions are the future of healthcare,” Dr. Hamid remarked, “and it is imperative to integrate them into medical education and practice.”
Entrepreneurship and intellectual property: Key focus areas for growth
The importance of intellectual property (IP) and commercialization also took center stage during the discussions. Dr. Irij Haq, a Life Sciences Patent Attorney, stressed that early-stage awareness of patents and regulatory strategies is crucial for attracting investment and ensuring the sustainability of healthcare technologies. “Entrepreneurs in healthcare need to understand the value of their innovations and how to protect them,” Dr. Haq stated.
A unified vision for the future
The event concluded with Prof. Jehan Ara Hasan presenting shields to the speakers in recognition of their valuable contributions. As the symposium closed, all attendees reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the integration of research, entrepreneurship, and technological advancements in Pakistan’s healthcare sector.
Prof. Hasan concluded, reinforcing the university’s commitment to innovation and global partnerships:
“Through initiatives like these, we can make significant strides in improving healthcare outcomes and creating opportunities for students, professionals, and entrepreneurs alike.”
