Speakers at a seminar have stressed the need to promote factual knowledge, accurate information, and social awareness about HIV/AIDS.
Fatima Jinnah Medical University arranged the event on Tuesday in connection with World AIDS Day.
FJMU Vice Chancellor, Professor Khalid Masood Gondal, was the Chief Guest, while Administrator, Punjab Human Organ Transplant, Prof Aamer Zaman Khan, and Dr Abdul Majid from The Royal Australasian College of Family Medicine, Australia, joined as the guests of honour.
Representing the Punjab AIDS Control Program, Dr Qurat-ul-Ain briefed the participants about the current HIV/AIDS situation in Punjab and Pakistan. Through a video message, Dr Fizza Gilani emphasised the importance of HIV prevention, while Dr Saima Abbas participated as a technical expert.
Prof Khalid Masood Gondal highlighted the importance of timely diagnosis, safe practices, and dispelling misconceptions about the disease. He stressed that breaking the “silence” surrounding HIV is essential to ensure timely treatment and adequate social support for patients.
Warning against quack practitioners, he stated that ignorance and substandard treatment often worsen the illness. He revealed that the FJMU will launch a Department of Infectious Diseases and a PhD Nursing program, while the Department of Family Medicine will also be strengthened during 2026.
Dr Abdul Majid emphasised the importance of preventive measures in controlling AIDS. He appreciated the collaboration of CPSP & FJMU and reaffirmed continued collaboration to promote Family Medicine in Pakistan.
During the ceremony, Dr Fizza Gilani’s new book, “Enhancing HIV Care Capacity in Pakistan,” was also launched. In the end, honorary shields were presented to the distinguished guests as a token of appreciation.
