During the Fall 2024 semester, Ms. Areeba Gul, a student of BS Psychology at the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), successfully completed her exchange semester at Maryville College, Tennessee, USA, under the prestigious UGRAD (Global Undergraduate Exchange) Program.                                                              

Areeba Gul was selected among the top 54 students from across Pakistan as a Principal Candidate for this fully funded scholarship. The program covered all academic, travel, and living expenses, along with a stipend for books and other essentials.

Throughout the semester, she demonstrated exceptional academic performance and actively participated in various cultural, educational, and community engagement activities. She completed 80 plus community service hours, volunteering with six organizations:

• United Way
• Blount County Public Library
• Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center
• Day Care Dementia Despite
• Best Buddies International
• Emerald Youth Foundation

Her volunteer work provided meaningful exposure to community development, leadership, and social inclusion. Through this experience, she gained valuable insights into American society, strengthened her intercultural understanding, and enhanced her sense of global citizenship.

The UGRAD Exchange Program served as a transformative experience for Areeba Gul, broadening her academic and personal horizons. Her participation reflects the university’s commitment to promoting international learning opportunities and fostering cross-cultural connections.

The National University of Medical Sciences extends its congratulations to Areeba Gul for successfully completing the UGRAD Exchange Program and representing NUMS and Pakistan with excellence.

A two-day hands-on training workshop titled “Managing Aggressive Attendants in Health Care Settings” was organized at Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Quetta, conducted by Ms. Saira Javed, PhD Scholar in Psychology, NDP from NUMS, Pakistan, under the supervision of Brigadier Imran Ahmad (Professor, Neurology).

The workshop aimed to enhance the professional competence of doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff in effectively managing aggression and maintaining composure in challenging healthcare situations.

Objectives of the training included:

• Understanding triggers and psychological factors behind aggressive behaviors.
• Mastering verbal and non-verbal de-escalation techniques.
• Managing emotions and maintaining professional boundaries.
• Encouraging teamwork and resilience in high-pressure environments.

Participants engaged in practical demonstrations, simulations, and scenario-based exercises, gaining skills directly applicable to clinical practice.

The training was highly appreciated by all attendees and the hospital command. Commandant CMH Quetta, lauded Ms. Saira Javed for her commendable performance, leadership, and outstanding contribution during her tenure.

Ms. Saira also completed her 2000-hour Clinical Neuropsychology Internship at CMH Quetta, involving EEG training, case handling, psychological assessments, diagnostic procedures, and therapeutic interventions.

Her work was recognized as a significant step toward fostering mental wellness and professional excellence within the healthcare teams of the Armed Forces

As part of the Millennium Fellowship 2025 under the Millennium Campus Network (MCN), Ms. Areeba Gul (BS Psychology/ Member Civic Society, NUMS) NUMS Campus Director, MCN, initiated a community-focused project titled “Empowering Women Through Entrepreneurship” under the supervision of Ms. Saira Javed (Lecturer Clinical Psychology, NDP/ Convener, Civic Society NUMS). This report outlines I Phase of the initiative, which was executed in collaboration with The Citizens Foundation (TCF). The goal of this phase was to empower young girls from underserved communities by equipping them with essential developmental and entrepreneurial skills. The focus was on building self-confidence, independence, and a long-term sustainable mindset to support their future success as impactful and self-reliant individuals.

The project was conducted in collaboration with The Citizens Foundation (TCF), which helped reach female students from underserved communities with limited access to skill-building and empowerment opportunities. This partnership ensured the program supported girls who could benefit most from mentorship and personal development.

The project spanned six consecutive Saturdays between August and October, 2025. Throughout this time, project lead along with team of volunteers, conducted interactive mentoring sessions with female mentees at TCF schools. The curriculum was grounded in developmental psychology and gradually progressed from foundational self-exploration and basic goal-setting to developing a purpose-driven and entrepreneurial mindset. The sessions were designed to nurture personal growth through skills like self-awareness, emotional intelligence, decision-making, and resilience; qualities that are essential not only for future entrepreneurs but also for confident and capable individuals navigating personal and social challenges.

To ensure meaningful engagement, we employed creative and activity-based learning strategies. Group discussions, role-playing activities, and short dramas were incorporated to create an interactive and supportive learning environment. These techniques encouraged students to express themselves, think critically, collaborate with peers, and build communication and leadership competencies. The sessions also introduced the concept of entrepreneurship by highlighting how innovation and problem-solving can be used to create opportunities, uplift communities, and encourage financial independence, especially for women in underserved environments.

Throughout the weekly sessions, we observed a visible transformation in the mentees. Their confidence grew, their communication skills strengthened, and they demonstrated enthusiasm, creativity, and openness to new ideas. The improvement in their self-expression, ability to collaborate, and willingness to participate reflected the success of the initiative. Beyond academic learning, these girls developed a belief in their personal potential, which is essential for long-term empowerment and resilience. Each session reinforced the concept that education, when paired with mentorship, emotional support, and empowerment, becomes a transformative force capable of shaping confident and capable young women. The progress witnessed through this initiative strengthens the belief that investing in young women today creates a ripple effect that can reshape families, communities, and societies for the better.

This project was aligned with key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing its global relevance and impact. It supported SDG 1, 3, 8, 10, & 17

Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – As part of the ongoing Institutional Research Fund (IRF) NUMS project titled “Examining Transdiagnostic Features and Shared Neural Mechanisms of Psychological Disorders Through EEG Microstate Analysis,” a delegation from the Department of Psychology, National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), visited the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at Pak-Austria Fachhochschule: Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (PAF-IAST), located on Khanpur Road, Mang, Haripur.

The research project is led by Prof. Dr. Shazia Khalid, Dean and Head of the NUMS Department of Psychology, as the Principal Investigator (PI), with Ms. Saira Javed, Lecturer in Clinical Psychology and Incharge Psychologist at NTPRC, serving as the Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI).

The purpose of the visit was to strengthen the interdisciplinary application of artificial intelligence in neuropsychological research, particularly focusing on the analysis of EEG microstates in understanding the shared neural mechanisms across psychological disorders.

The delegation also included a group of MPhil Psychology students and faculty members from NUMS, who actively participated in the academic interactions and technical demonstrations. Their presence enriched the exchange of ideas and underscored NUMS’ commitment to collaborative and experiential learning.

During the visit, the NUMS team explored the cutting-edge resources of the AI Lab and engaged in discussions with faculty and technical experts from PAF-IAST’s Departments of Psychology and Artificial Intelligence. The visiting team expressed heartfelt gratitude to the respected Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty, and staff of PAF-IAST for their warm welcome and generous academic cooperation.

Students from NDP remarked that the exposure to such a technologically advanced and research-driven environment has significantly enhanced the feasibility and timely execution of the ongoing IRF-funded project. The collaboration is expected to facilitate the integration of AI-driven analytical models into psychological research and open up new avenues for interdisciplinary innovation.

This visit marks a promising step toward future partnerships between NUMS and PAF-IAST, paving the way for joint research, student training, and scientific exchange in the overlapping domains of neuroscience, psychology, and artificial intelligence

On May 8, 2025, the Department of Psychology successfully organized an insightful seminar titled “Application of Psychometrics in Psychology”, expertly coordinated by Dr. Syeda Rubab Aftab. The event aimed to deepen the understanding of psychometrics and its vital applications in the field of psychology.

The seminar featured a distinguished speaker, Dr. Aftab Ahmer, Senior Psychologist at the Psychological Testing Wing of the Federal Public Service Commission. Dr. Ahmer delivered an engaging presentation that highlighted the critical role psychometric tools play in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and research.

Key highlights of the seminar included discussions on the development, validation, and implementation of psychological tests and measurements. Dr. Ahmer emphasized the importance of reliability and validity in psychometric instruments to ensure accurate and meaningful results. He also illustrated how psychometrics aids in personnel selection, clinical diagnosis, and educational evaluations, thereby enhancing decision-making processes.

Participants gained valuable insights into contemporary psychometric techniques and their practical applications across various psychological domains. The seminar fostered an interactive environment, encouraging questions and discussions that enriched attendees’ knowledge.

Overall, the event was a resounding success, reinforcing the significance of psychometrics in advancing psychological science and practice.

The 5th National Conference on Social Psychiatry, themed "Trauma, Disaster & Terrorism: Building Resilience in Community," held on Saturday, 3 May 2025, at the Pearl Continental Hotel, Rawalpindi, featured significant contributions from the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS). Prof. Dr. Muhammad Rizwan, a distinguished NUMS faculty member, presented his compelling research on "The Psychological Impact of Terrorism in Swat Tehsil Matta, Pakistan." Adding to NUMS' presence, Ms. Kiran Shahzadi, a Master's student from the Department of Clinical Psychology, shared her insightful findings on "Childhood Trauma and Dissociative Experiences: Moderating Role of Perceived Social Support among Adults." Notably, the NUMS Logo, commemorating the Decade Celebration, was prominently displayed on all presentation slides, garnering considerable attention and appreciation from the session chairs and attendees.

Organized collaboratively by the Pakistan Association of Social Psychiatry (PASP) alongside esteemed institutions such as Watim Medical College and Hospital, Health Services Academy, Pakistan Psychological Association, Pakistan Academy for Family Physicians, and Pakistan Medical Association Islamabad, and led by Chief Organizer Prof. Dr. Mazhar Malik FCPS (Psych), the conference drew leading psychiatrists and psychologists from across Pakistan. This platform facilitated crucial dialogue and knowledge sharing on the complex mental health challenges arising from trauma and terrorism.

The impactful participation of NUMS researchers, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Rizwan and Ms. Kiran Shahzadi aligns with NUMS' commitment to producing relevant research that addresses critical societal issues and contributes to advancing health sciences. Their work on the psychological consequences of terrorism and trauma directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to health and well-being. The positive reception of their research, coupled with the attention drawn to the NUMS Logo of Decade Celebration, further enhances the university's visibility and reinforces its dedication to impactful contributions in the field.

On May 29, 2025, the Department of Psychology successfully organized an insightful seminar titled “Community Mental Health”, expertly coordinated by Dr. Syeda Rubab Aftab. The event aimed to deepen the understanding of mental health challenges within communities and explore effective strategies to promote psychological well-being at the grassroots level.

The seminar featured an esteemed speaker, Dr. Aftab Hussain, Director of Self-Care Trust International, who shared his expert insights on the critical role of community-based mental health initiatives. Dr. Hussain emphasized the importance of early intervention, public awareness, and accessible mental health services to reduce stigma and improve overall community resilience.

Key highlights included discussions on the integration of mental health care into primary health services, the role of self-care and peer support, and innovative approaches to mental health education. Dr. Hussain also underscored the need for collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders to build sustainable mental health support systems.

The seminar encouraged active participation, fostering meaningful dialogue on challenges and solutions in community mental health. This event marked a significant step toward enhancing mental health literacy and care at the community level, reflecting the Department of Psychology’s dedication to social well-being.

On June 11, 2025, the Department of Psychology hosted an enlightening seminar on “Forensic Psychology”, expertly coordinated by Dr. Syeda Rubab Aftab. The session provided an in-depth exploration of the vital role forensic psychology plays in the legal and criminal justice systems.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Waqas Ahmed, a distinguished forensic psychologist, certified sports therapist for special children and psychometrician and clinical psychologist at various Combined Military Hospitals (CMHs). His multifaceted expertise brought a unique perspective to the seminar, highlighting the practical applications of forensic psychology in diverse settings.

Participants gained valuable insights into the complexities of offender profiling, mental health evaluations for courts, and the ethical considerations in forensic practice. The seminar emphasized the significance of forensic psychology in bridging the gap between mental health and law enforcement, ultimately contributing to fairer legal outcomes.

This event successfully enhanced awareness and professional competence in forensic psychology, inspiring future psychologists to contribute meaningfully to this critical field.

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The Department of Psychology hosted a thought-provoking seminar on “Cognitive Neuroscience” on May 15, 2025, under the expert coordination of Dr. Syeda Rubab Aftab. The seminar was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the fundamental principles of cognitive neuroscience, exploring how brain processes underlie human thought, perception, memory, and behavior.

The event’s main speaker was Dr. Muhammad Aqeel, Assistant Professor at Fauji Foundation University. Dr. Aqeel delivered an engaging presentation on the latest research in cognitive neuroscience, highlighting how advancements in brain imaging and psychometric assessment are transforming our comprehension of mental processes, learning, memory, and decision-making. He discussed the interplay between neural mechanisms and cognitive functions.

Key highlights included interactive discussions on the use of neuroimaging techniques, the significance of cognitive assessment tools, and real-world applications in clinical and educational settings. Participants gained valuable insights into the neural basis of cognition, the impact of technology on neuroscience research, and emerging trends in the field.

Overall, the seminar was a resounding success, fostering intellectual curiosity and professional growth among attendees.

The NUMS Department of Psychology, in celebration of NUMS’ 10-year anniversary, organized a seminar titled “Professional Ethics and Law” on May 27, 2025, at the NUMS PWD Campus. The event was expertly coordinated by Ms. Hafiza Maryam Rafique, Lecturer at the Department of Psychology, NUMS.

This seminar on ethics in professional practice featured Miss Hafiza Amina Sadia, Assistant Professor at the Department of Law, Bahria University, Islamabad, and a British Council Master Trainer, as the distinguished Guest Speaker. The Chief Guest, Air Commodore Muhammad Ismail, SI (M), (Retired), Head of NCL and Consultant for Quality Assurance at NUMS, added further significance to the occasion.

The event was hosted by Semester VII BS Psychology students, Khadija and Abeer, who demonstrated outstanding professionalism. The seminar began with a recitation and the national anthem and aimed to raise awareness of professional ethics and law in Pakistan among students and professionals.

Miss Amina Sadia’s powerful session emphasized the role of law in professional ethics, discussing how legal frameworks influence ethical practices across various fields.

Key outcomes of the seminar included:

• Greater understanding of law and ethics in professional environments
• Increased awareness of ethical responsibilities across professions

The interactive question and answer session allowed participants, including students and faculty from various departments, to engage deeply with the speaker. The guest speaker offered thoughtful responses that further enhanced learning. Positive feedback and closing remarks by the Chief Guest reaffirmed the seminar’s impact.

A formal vote of thanks was delivered by the Department of Psychology. The department plans to host more university ethics events in the future to foster professionalism and ethical conduct.

Overall, the seminar was a resounding success, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the organizers, the expert guest speaker, the honorable Chief Guest, and the engaged participants.

The Department of Psychology at the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) hosted a vibrant and intellectually enriching event on 20th May 2025 at the NUMS PWD Campus, as part of the course titled “Cross-Cultural and Cognitive Psychology.” Designed to deepen understanding of how culture shapes human cognition and behavior, the event was held under the supervision of course instructors Dr. Syeda Rubab Aftab and Ms. Hafiza Maryam Rafique. Faculty members from diverse departments, including HND, Clinical Psychology, and Humanities, actively participated.

The event began with a compelling video on stereotypes and cultural perceptions prevalent in Pakistani society, featuring collaborative contributions from students of Quaid-e-Azam University, NDU, COMSATS, and Foundation University. This presentation offered a thought-provoking analysis of how cross-cultural misunderstandings develop and influence everyday behavior. Another independently produced video paid tribute to Punjabi culture through authentic clips showcasing traditions, lifestyle, and vibrant community practices.

Cultural expression was further amplified through immersive visual displays. Stalls showcasing traditional Punjabi jewelry and attire highlighted how material culture contributes to individual and collective identity. Visitors actively engaged in a lively game of musical chairs played to traditional luddi music, celebrating the joyful communal spirit of Punjabi culture. The winner received complimentary mehndi, adding a festive touch. Art and food stalls adorned with colorful posters and traditional Punjabi dishes provided a multisensory cultural experience.

The next segment featured a rich presentation on Sindhi and Siraiki heritage, offering insights into the province’s historical, literary, and cultural depth. Visitors learned about Sindh’s tourist attractions, folklore, and the cognitive significance of its traditional narratives. An interactive booth allowed attendees to create cultural bookmarks and stamps inspired by Sindhi Ajrak, encouraging hands-on engagement. A photobooth decorated with Ajrak and Sindhi Topi gave participants a chance to capture memories while celebrating cultural identity.

A creative quiz segment linked culture with cognition by asking participants questions rooted in global, national, and regional knowledge. This “memory crash quiz” emphasized how memory, perception, and context influence understanding of cultural information and demonstrated cognitive psychological concepts in practice.

Pashtun and Balochi cultural presentations provided a thoughtful overview of these communities’ origins, languages, values, and traditions. Presenters explored how deeply ingrained cultural frameworks shape behavioral norms and decision-making processes. Attendees viewed traditional items illustrating everyday life, while a food stall served popular dishes such as Balochi Sajji, offering a taste of authentic regional cuisine. A beverage counter featuring gur ka sharbat, a sweet Pashtun drink, further enriched the experience. Cultural storytelling sessions captured the essence of oral traditions, linking them with psychological principles such as memory encoding, emotional expression, and identity development.

The event offered a holistic understanding of Pakistan’s rich cultural mosaic through the lens of psychology. By bridging culture and cognition, it fostered meaningful conversations and enhanced cross-cultural understanding within the academic community.

In line with its commitment to promote health literacy and community resilience, the NUMS Department of Psychology, in collaboration with NUMS Civic Society (NCS), organized a one-day training workshop titled “Medical and Mental Health First Aid for Community Workers” on Friday, 16th May 2025, at NUMS PWD Campus, Rawalpindi.

The workshop was conducted with Prof. Dr. Shazia Khalid, Dean Social and Behavioral Sciences and Head of the NUMS Department of Psychology, who served as the Chief Organizer of the event. The workshop aimed to provide foundational training to students and aspiring community workers for effective response to both physical and psychological health emergencies in community settings. The workshop was facilitated by two experts: Dr. Muhammad Shehroz Aamir (MBBS, RMP; Member Resuscitation Council UK/PAFIIC), and Ms. Saira Javed (Certified Trauma Counselor, TILTI; Lecturer Clinical Psychology, NDP NUMS), who led the two core sessions of the workshop. A total of 64 participants attended the training session, representing a diverse mix of academic disciplines and professional expertise.

This included 37 students from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, 19 students from the School of Allied Health Sciences and other multidisciplinary programs, and 6 community doctors from Combined Military Hospital (CMH). In the Medical First Aid segment, Dr. Muhammad Shehroz briefed participants about emergency response protocols, explaining the difference between ER and OPD cases. Participants were introduced to the internationally recognized ABCD protocol (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability) and were provided with hands-on training using medical mannequins. Attendees practiced basic first aid techniques under expert supervision, enabling them to respond more effectively during real-life emergencies. The Mental Health First Aid session, conducted by Ms. Saira Javed, focused on psychological responses to crises.

The session explored the emotional and cognitive impact of trauma, natural disasters, and community-level psychological distress. Students were guided on how to provide psychological support during acute distress and build mental health resilience in communities. The training emphasized trauma-informed care, crisis communication, and immediate emotional support. The workshop concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session where students engaged directly with both facilitators. Prof. Dr. Shazia Khalid delivered the closing remarks, commending the facilitators and appreciating the proactive role of the NUMS Civic Society in implementing socially relevant educational initiatives. She stressed the importance of first aid awareness for every community worker, particularly in resource-constrained and crisis-prone environments.

The activity aligned with Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The event was organized by the NUMS Civic Society Cabinet under the supervision of Ms. Saira Javed, Convener NCS, and received positive feedback from attendees who expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage in practical, life-saving training

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Rizwan, Professor of Clinical Psychology from the Department of Psychology at the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), was invited by the Pakistan Health Parliament (PHP) to deliver an insightful seminar on "Psychological Distress and Academic Performance" at Riphah University, G-7 Campus, Islamabad. The seminar was conducted for Pharm-D students on 4th September from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Dr. Rizwan's energetic presentation captivated both students and faculty members.

The lecture, which concentrated on the practical strategies for managing stress and anxiety, provided students with invaluable insights into the impact of psychological distress on academic performance. The audience's enthusiastic response, which included gratitude for the knowledge Prof. Dr. Muhammad Rizwan imparted, underscored the seminar's significance.

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On 2nd August 2024, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Rizwan, Head of Clinical Psychology, conducted a highly engaging workshop on Emotional Resilience and Stress Management for the teachers and administrative staff at Alhuda International School, H-11, Islamabad. The session focused on equipping participants with practical strategies to enhance their emotional resilience and effectively manage stress in personal and professional settings. Dr. Rizwan's expertise in clinical psychology provided invaluable insights into the importance of maintaining emotional well-being, particularly in demanding environments like education, enlightening the audience.

The workshop was well-received by the attendees, who actively participated in discussions and exercises designed to reinforce the concepts presented. The interactive nature of the session, which fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas and ensured everyone's voice was heard, created a supportive atmosphere for learning and growth. The event benefited the participants and contributed to the overall mission of promoting mental health awareness within the educational community.

The NUMS Department of Psychology recently conducted a Personality Development Workshop as part of the NUMS Community Engagement Program, held at the Sir Syed School & College of Special Education Rawalpindi. The workshop aimed to equip participants with essential skills and a renewed sense of purpose, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 4, and 5, focusing on good health and well-being, quality education, and gender equality.

Dr. Sadia Mushtaq, Assistant Professor in the NUMS Psychology Department, served as the resource person for the workshop. The event was designed to be interactive, featuring group activities, self-assessment exercises, and discussions on personal development. Participants actively engaged in exploring strategies for building strong interpersonal relationships and effective stress management.

The impact of the workshop was tangible, as attendees left with newfound knowledge, sharpened skills, and increased motivation to enhance their personal and professional lives. Participants gained insights into various facets of their personalities, enabling them to set development goals and action plans.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills were emphasized, with attendees learning the importance of active listening, non-verbal communication, and assertiveness through role-playing and practical exercises. Stress management techniques were also covered, equipping individuals with tools to navigate life's challenges.

Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing how the workshop has already positively impacted their lives. This initiative has empowered individuals to take control of their growth and contribute positively to their communities.

The Personality Development Workshop's success reaffirms our commitment to community engagement. We look forward to bringing more transformative events to the community, empowering individuals to lead more fulfilling lives and make positive contributions to society.

A project named “Tackling The Taboo of Red Marks” (T3ORM) is a collaborative project of NUMS Department of Psychology (NDP) and NUMS Civic Society (NCS). Which has been selected as a community action project in the Khud Ko Pehchaano program implemented by Greenstar Social Marketing and funded by Punjab Population Innovation Fund. This project meets the Sustainable Development Goal No 3 “Good Health”,4 “Quality Education”,5” Gender Equality”,6” Clean Water and Sanitation”,8 “Good Jobs and Economic Growth”,10” Reduced Inequalities”,11” Sustaiable Cities and Communities”, 16 “Peace and Justice” & 17 “Partnerships for Goals”.

On August 17, 2023, a project has been executed with the facilitation of Special Talent Exchange Program (STEP) at National Library Islamabad. Keeping the slogan of NCS “You Matter” a project has been meticulously designed and mentored by Ms. Saira Javed (Lecturer Clinical Psychologist, NDP/Incharge Psychologist, N-TRC/ Convener, NCS). The project, driven by students, was divided into two teams: Team A led by MPhil Psychology Scholar Ms. Sadaf Arif (with members Ms. Smaha Seher & Ms. Pireh Fareed), and Team B led by BS Psychology Scholar Ms. Kinza Maryum (with member Ms. Anosh Shahid).

In total, 25 individuals with physical disabilities took part in this workshop, with an additional 7 caregivers expressing interest to join the session, upon request. The primary objective of this one- day awareness and training workshop was multifaceted. It aimed to impart knowledge about the menstrual cycle and reproductive health to individuals with physical disabilities, address the distinctive challenges and requirements associated with menstrual hygiene among disabled females, provide accessible and inclusive hands-on training, and establish psychological and social support networks. These support networks aimed to assist individuals with physical disabilities in managing their day-to-day menstrual health matters, including issues like premenstrual syndrome, while also fostering a positive and empowering outlook on menstruation within this specific population.

The comprehensive workshop covered a range of sensitive topics, encompassing reproductive health, the menstrual cycle, hygiene practices, product usage, and the specific needs of differently- abled individuals. The day was enriched with engaging activities such as Muscle Relaxation therapy, stress management balloon exercises, and meditation. These activities not only catered to managing premenstrual syndrome but also provided valuable tools for addressing the everyday stresses encountered by individuals with disabilities.

Adhering to the NUMS commitment of "Zero Waste," the T3ORM team introduced Eco-Friendly Menstrual kits to all participants. Each kit included Cloth Menstrual Pads, a Razor for hair removal, a surf sachet for pad cleaning and reuse, wet napkins for hygiene, chocolate biscuits, and coffee sachets to alleviate premenstrual symptoms. The distinctive feature of these kits was their presentation in clay pots. Participants were encouraged to plant seeds of their choice in these pots, thus fostering a sense of connection with nature that contributed to their psychological well-being.

The participants were greatly intrigued by the innovative and eco-friendly menstrual kits and their unique presentation in ceramic pots. Speaking on behalf of all participants, Ms. Saima Aslam, the focal person for the STEP organization, shared positive feedback that emphasized the need for

more practical hands-on training in the future. She also highlighted the importance of creating smaller support groups to eliminate the social taboo around menstruation ("Red Marks") and expressed the need for initiating a psychological helpline for counseling. These sentiments solidified the event as a successful initiative in heightening awareness about menstrual health within the differently-abled community.

Notable figures who graced the event included Muhammad Atif Sheikh, President of the STEP Organization, who commended the initiative's focus on hygiene education and reproductive health tailored for females with diverse abilities. Mr. Israr Ahmed, Deputy Director of the National Library of Pakistan, served as the Guest of Honor, praising Team T3ORM's efforts, innovation, and the dedication of the mentor, Ms. Saira Javed. He extended a warm welcome to NUMS for future activities at the National Library of Pakistan and concluded the event by presenting certificates to the workshop participants.

The success of the workshop owes gratitude to several key individuals including Prof. Dr. Shazia Khalid (Head of NDP), Dr. Erum Monis (Deputy Director QA NUMS/Gynecologist), Dr. Sadia Mushtaq (Assistant Professor, NDP), and Ms. Saira Javed (Project Mentor). They played pivotal roles in providing pre-event training to student leaders and their teams, ensuring the dissemination of accurate information to the wider community. Special acknowledgment was also extended to

Air Cdre Muhammad Ismail, SI (M), (Retd) Consultant QA, NUMS for sponsoring lunch for the workshop participants. In essence, the workshop stands as a commendable effort to bridge the gap in menstrual health awareness among differently-abled individuals, emphasizing empowerment, inclusivity, and environmental mindfulness.

NUMS Department of Psychology organized an awareness seminar on "Thriving Together: Unleashing the Positivity" aim of promoting a shift towards human strengths, positive individual traits and highlighting the transformative power of mindfulness in our lives. The event featured a diverse range of activities including Engaging Talks, Captivating Skits, Thought-provoking activities, and a Poster presentation competition.

The seminar began with soulful recitation and translation of Surah Al-Duha, Ayat No. 1-10 following National Anthem played during the opening session.

Dr. Sadia Mushtaq, Assistant Professor Psychology and focal person Psych Talk forum, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the significance of positivity and the need to focus on human strengths and positive human traits. This set the tone for the engaging TED talks that followed. Ms. Nimra Tahir delivered a thought-provoking talk on "Unleashing the Power of Conscious Awareness," providing practical ways to cultivate mindfulness. Ms. Khadija and Ms. Anosh inspired the audience with their talk "To Live, To Suffer," encouraging them to embrace sad times as they enable true happiness. Ms. Zainab Fatima shed light on the significance of recognizing and appreciating hidden blessings in life through her captivating talk "Hidden Blessings."

Captivating skits were performed to convey powerful messages. One such skit, titled "Life Goes On," narrated by Ms. Khadeeja, emphasized the importance of focusing on the positive aspects of life despite temporary adversities. Another skit, titled "Peace over Anything," highlighted the value of peace and emphasized that pursuing other things in life should not come at the expense of losing this invaluable treasure.

Participants actively engaged in interactive activities designed to foster positivity and gratitude. The "Emo-match" activity allowed participants to exchange compliments and share positive thoughts. In the "Blessing" activity, participants wrote down one thing they considered themselves blessed with, fostering a sense of gratitude.

A captivating documentary titled "Different Perspectives of Psychology" was presented by Ms. Pireh Fareed and Ms. Kinza. The documentary explored various perspectives of psychology, enriching the audience's understanding of the subject.

The poster presentation competition provided participants with a platform to showcase their creativity and knowledge related to positivity under the theme "Thriving Together: Unleashing the Positivity." Handmade and electronic posters were displayed, adding vibrancy to the event.

The Head of the Psychology Department, Professor Dr. Shazia Khalid appreciated the efforts of organizing committee and all the members who were involved on successfully achieved its goal of promoting a shift towards positive psychology. It left participants motivated to unleash the power of positivity in their lives, contributing to their personal growth and well-being. At the end Dr. Erum Monis (Deputy Director Quality Assurance) Distributed certificates to the winners of the poster presentation competition and appreciated the participants.

NUMS Department of Psychology has taken an initiative to address the socio- emotional and wellbeing needs of vulnerable communities in surroundings areas of PWD targeting institutes including orphanage also which are meeting both basic necessities and educational expenses of their children.

Special teams comprising students of NUMS Department of Psychology, led by its Assistant Professor Dr. Sadia Mushtaq, were trained in effective communication and potent demeanor skills before the start of this training session. They were divided into three groups which visited two orphanages for five days and interacted with children on how to strengthen themselves emotionally. The orphanages were reluctant to disclose their identity for reasons of privacy. The activities were conducted to develop their socioemotional, moral and creativity skills.

NUMS Psychology Department organized these visits to give its students, studying Social Work and community development, an idea of community development, and what would be the significance of their role in future in this regard.

The activities included puppet show and puppet making, storytelling, painting and drawing. The children of orphanages were asked to write letters to their friends and teachers and express their love and significance which would develop their vocabulary to expressive their emotions and feelings. To boost the creativity skills, they were involved in puppet making, drawing and paintings. The children were excited to participate in the puppet show. Puppet show and storytelling are a healthy and powerful teaching tools to develop social and emotional strengths of the children. This activity was found very valuable and incredible as the children were enthusiastic. The Department of Psychology would continue these initiatives so that it could contribute to community building.

These training sessions were conducted in accordance with UN Sustainable Development Goals(SDG)6, SDG 3 (Good health and well-being), SDG 4 (Quality education) and 10: Reduced Inequalities. NUMS department of Psychology aims to continue conducting such training sessions in various schools in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

Center of Advanced Studies in Health and Technology (CASHT), in collaboration with Riphah International University, IBADAT University, and a few other renowned institutions, conducted the event in the presence of Vice Chancellors from various public sector Universities of Pakistan as well as the chairman and director generals of valuable institutions. The event was executed at Pak-China Friendship Centre, Islamabad, on 22nd December 2022. Ms. Halima Sadia Qureshi (Lecturer, Clinical Psychologist, National University of Medical Sciences) was invited to give a talk as a guest speaker on this prestigious forum linking mental health with one health.

Ms. Halima Sadia Qureshi, after encouragement from the head of department NUMS Department of Psychology (NDP) and approval from higher management of NUMS, delivered her talk on “Co-existing Mental Health Conditions and Noncommunicable Diseases.” She discussed the general idea about NCDs and later identified the indigenous data of people suffering from NCD and its impact on their mental health and vice versa. Also, she discussed the risk factors of NCDs and mental health issues. The comorbidities and multimorbidities of physical and mental health conditions and their impact on the individual’s life were further elaborated. Finally, the causal mechanisms and treatment for NCD and mental health conditions were proposed.

Ms. Halima Sadia Qureshi also concluded the event with closing remarks. She has been presented with a souvenir for her contribution by the worthy Vice Chancellor University of Haripur, Prof. Dr. Shafiq ur Rahman. Honorable VC gave positive feedback regarding the talk and, in the end, announced the poster competition winners as well.

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The City School invited Ms. Halima S. Qureshi to give a talk to the faculty of The City School PWD campus on 3rd November 2022. The talk was related to the individual's self-awareness and helping them improve their personal and professional lives. This talk has given the opportunity to the teachers to understand their maladaptive thoughts leading to unfavourable reactions in daily life. The target of the talk was to teach the required knowledge to the teachers to be self-aware of their emotions, feelings and behaviours to control their consequences.

Participants of the talk had an open opportunity to discuss, which helped the attendees to understand the mechanism involved in self-improvement. Also, the awareness regarding emotional intelligence helped them understand the components of being aware of themselves and utilize their knowledge to understand others. Participants also learned ways of coping and improving their emotional intelligence and situational coping. The positive feedback from the participants at the end of the talk was terrific. The event was concluded with the thank you note and appreciation followed by souvernir to the speaker by the head of the institution

World Mental Health Day 2022 was celebrated by Students of Allied Health Sciences, Semester II of AFPGMI under the mentorship of Ms. Saira Javed ( Lecturer Clinical Psychology/NDP, Incharge Psychologist, N-TRC).

The theme of 2022's World Mental Health Day, set by the World Federation for Mental Health, was 'Make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority'.World Mental Health Day is also a chance to talk about mental health in general, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to talk about things and get help if you are struggling.

In this regard students from the course of Behavioral Sciences (Semester II) at AFPGMI displayed their projects in form of roll plays.

Prof. Dr. Shazia Khalid (Head, NUMS Department of Psychology) was invited as Chief Guest of the event and Ms. Taskeen Mansoor (PhD Scholar, Quaid-i-Azam University) was invited as judge of the event. Total 55 participants took the part in today's event. Whereas, 9 projects where displayed on various burning psychosocial issues which includes:

1. Defamation

2. Broken family

3. Post traumatic stress disorder 

4. Neglected transgenders 

5. Smiling depression

6. Gender discrimination

7.  Bulling

8.  Cyber Harassment and

9.  Gas lighting

Chief guest and judge highly appreciates the efforts of students and mentor. They extended their gratitude to all teams for highlighting such sensitive issues so gracefully and swiftly delivered a message on importance and seriousness of mental health. At the end of the event, certificates were distributed among top three best projects and souvenir were presented to guests and supervisor.

The day was celebrated and projects were displayed in compliance to SDG 3 “Good Health and Wellbeing”, SDG 4 “Quality Education”, SDG 5 “Gender Equality” and SDG 17 “ Partnerships for the Goals”

Awareness Seminar on Her invisible illness was conducted by the students of Psychology Semester III (Roman Jalil, Ifrah Arshad & M. Mukaram Bin Afzal) on 12th May 2022.

Guest Speaker for the event was Dr. Erum Monis (Deputy Director Quality Assurance & Public Health Practitioner, NUMS).

An interactive session took place with students and questions, queries, myths and misconceptions were addressed regarding the 

“Poly cystic ovarian syndrome". PCOS is a hormonal issue and quite common in girls these days. were discussed. 

It was elaborated how a girl faces stress of dysmenorrhea, PMS, depression, weight gain, eating disorders, mood swings alone. She feels embarrassed with symptoms like Hirsutism (excessive growth of dark or coarse hair in a male-like pattern — face, chest and back) and sometimes delayed menarche.

Through this talk an effort was made to spread factual and scientifically correct information regarding the issue which has actually become a taboo. 

Possible options for control of symptoms and various treatment modalities were discussed too. But most importantly the need for peer and family support was highlighted to lessen the psychosocial stressors of the condition on girls.

It was reiterated that generating a discussion around this topic and making more and more people aware of the situation is the only way to normalise behaviour of society towards the females suffering from PCOS. For better biological and psychological wellbeing it is really important to talk about such issues at college and university level for factual guidance. 

This icebreaking seminar was conducted under supervision of Ms. Saira Javed ( Lecturer Clinical Psychology/NDP, Incharge Psychologist, N-TRC).

This program was held in compliance to SDG 3 “Good Health and Wellbeing”, SDG 4 “Quality Education”, SDG 5 “Gender Equality” and SDG 17 “ Partnerships for the Goals”

Keeping the ritual alive of conducting series of training workshops for completion of psychological research projects of  Mid-Career Course of Army Student Officers (Psychologists) Personnel Administration Directorate, AG's Branch, GHQ, Rawalpindi had invited Ms. Saira Javed (Lecturer Clinical Psychology, NDP/Incharge Psychologist, N-TRC) from National University of Medical Sciences on 20th September, 2022 as Resource Person to deliver a Training Workshop on "Psychological Research Writing and Publication". The workshop was held at Armed Forces Post Graduate Medical institute, Rawalpindi. The participants of the workshops were Army Student Officers (Psychologists) from Mid-Career Courses (MCC) batch 09. In the first half of this current training workshop student officers had covered all segments of scientific writing followed by understanding of research ethics in the field of psychology. Since the participants were expected to do their own research project as part of their course a thorough discussion on synopsis of officers and hands of training has been provided to them to fill the gaps of lacking proportion in their proposed research projects. Whereas, the second half of the training workshop was all about article writing according to author guidelines of targeted journals, duties of corresponding author and other elements of article publication.

This workshop was facilitated in compliance with SDG  4 “Quality education”, SDG10 “Reduced Inequality” and SDG 17 “Partnerships for the Goals”

Since August 2019, the Social Sciences Lecture Series at NUMS has been run under the professional guidance of Professor Dr. Azam Chaudhary, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. Whereas, Professor Dr. Shazia Khalid (Head, NUMS Department of Psychology) and Ms. Saira Javed (Lecturer Clinical Psychology, NDP/ Incharge Psychologist, N-TRC) are members of the organizing committee. The prime objective of the series is to engage academicians, practitioners, and visionaries in an intellectual discourse on diverse global and indigenous challenges and discuss effective mechanisms and strategies for social change and transformation.

The 1st seminar under the umbrella of Social Sciences Lecture series were delivered by Dr. Malik Hammad Ahmad (Director, Implementation of Action Plan for Human Rights, Ministry of Human Rights, Pakistan)  on the topic of “Role of Human Rights in Implementation of SDGs 2030 in Pakistan”.

Whereas, 2nd seminar of Social Sciences Lecture series had through light on “Nanoscience and Technology and its Societal Impact” by Pro. Dr. N.M. Butt (Chairperson, Preston Institute of Science and Technology, Islamabad).

This program was held in compliance to SDG  “Good Health and Wellbeing”, SDG 4 “Quality Education”, SDG 16 “Peace Justice and Strong Institute” and SDG 17 “ Partnerships for the Goals”

Session was organized by the students of Department of Psychology Semester III (Jannat Shakir, Mehroosa Shireen, Fizza Rehman) on 9th May 2022, Monday.  

Dr. Saqlein Malik (Doctor of Pharmacy & CRCP, currently working as a lecturer of Clinical Pharmacy at Yusra Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacist in Westridge Hospital) was invited as Guest Speaker. The event started with the Recitation of the Holy Quran by Nimra Tahir followed by Jannat Shakir’s hosting & having a question-answer session with Dr. Saqlein to shed light on this issue. Dr. Malik explained to the audience that more than 88% of people were on self-medication during the Covid Pandemic and the majority comprised of females. He said that Self-Medication starts with Self-Diagnosis. People look up their illnesses online and diagnose their illnesses themselves. He explained that if a person takes a specific painkiller every time they feel pain, they will eventually build immunity to that painkiller and the medicine will no longer work for their body. According to Dr. Malik, a painkiller has three properties; Anti- Inflammatory, Analgesic, and Non-steroidal. Prof. Dr Shazia Khalid (Head NUMS Department of Psychology) also graced the event and informed audience about potential risks of self-medication practices include: incorrect self-diagnosis, delays in seeking medical advice when needed, infrequent but severe adverse reactions, dangerous drug interactions, incorrect manner of administration and incorrect dosage

At the end of the session, all the students thanked Dr. Saqlein Malik and got a group picture together. The event was organized under mentorship of Ms. Saira Javed (Lecturer Clinical Psychology, NDP/Incharge Psychologist N-TRC).

This program was held in compliance to SDG 3 “Good Health and Wellbeing”, SDG 4 “Quality Education”, SDG 5 “Gender Equality” and SDG 17 “Partnerships for the Goals”