Karachi: Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, addressing a convocation ceremony at Jinnah Sindh Medical University, emphasized the crucial role of doctors in strengthening the public healthcare system. He highlighted the importance of healthcare professionals having a significant voice in shaping health policy, public health reforms, and medical education, stating that a society which fails to respect and protect its healthcare workers cannot be considered truly civilized.
According to a press release issued by Media Cell Bilawal House, Bhutto Zardari attended the ceremony as the chief guest, where he underscored the dual significance of the occasion — a personal milestone for the graduates and a pivotal moment for the nation as these young doctors face unprecedented healthcare challenges. He noted that the graduates' education coincided with an era marked by global pandemics, climate emergencies, mental health issues, and healthcare inequalities. Bhutto Zardari praised the university for carrying a name synonymous with vision, discipline, and service, reflecting on Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's belief in education and health as the foundations of a strong Pakistan.
Bhutto Zardari articulated that medicine transcends diagnostics or pharmacology, embodying humanity itself. He urged that healthcare professionals deserve not only gratitude but also dignity, protection, and resources to perform their duties safely. Addressing Pakistan's ongoing healthcare challenges such as maternal and child mortality, malnutrition, mental health neglect, climate-related diseases, and unequal healthcare access, he asserted that resolution lies in skilled, ethical, and committed doctors willing to serve where needed.
Reassuring young doctors of their vital role in shaping the country's health policy and reforms, Bhutto Zardari called for doctors who are competent, ethical, and accountable. He acknowledged their importance to Pakistan, Sindh, and humanity at large and commended the faculty and administration of JSMU. The event was attended by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Sindh Minister for Universities and Boards Muhammad Ismail Rahu, BC Amjad Siraj Memon, and other dignitaries.