Lahore, Pakistan: Aga Khan University's School of Nursing and Midwifery Pakistan and the Program Implementation Unit of the Punjab Nursing & Health Workforce Reform Program, under the Government of Punjab's Specialized Healthcare & Medical Education Department, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance nursing education, faculty development, research, and health workforce capacity in Punjab.
According to Aga Khan University, the five-year agreement establishes a framework for collaboration between the university and the Punjab Nursing & Health Workforce Reform Program, supporting the Government of Punjab's efforts to strengthen nursing and allied health education based on international standards. The program is funded by the Asian Development Bank and is scheduled for implementation from 2026 to 2030.
Under the partnership, AKU's School of Nursing and Midwifery will work with the program on various initiatives, including increasing access to postgraduate nursing education, faculty development, curriculum reform, continuing professional development, research, and knowledge sharing. The collaboration will also focus on simulation-based education, learning management systems, and nursing leadership.
The agreement provides opportunities for nursing professionals and educators in Punjab to pursue advanced degrees through AKU's Masters of Science in Nursing and PhD in Nursing programs. Planned initiatives include faculty exchanges, joint research, technical advisory support, visiting professorships, and the development of simulation laboratories and digital learning resources.
Dr. Salimah Walani, Dean of AKU's School of Nursing and Midwifery, emphasized the potential impact of the partnership on nursing education standards and leadership in Pakistan. Tariq Mehmood, Program Director for the Punjab initiative, highlighted the collaboration's role in enhancing the province's health workforce.
The partnership aims to create sustainable opportunities for improving nursing education and healthcare delivery in Punjab, with specific programs to be developed through agreed-upon activity agreements and work plans.