Events/ Seminars/ Workshops

The NUMS Department of Public Health, in collaboration with Integrated Health Services (IHS), organized a week-long School Health Services certificate course for a dedicated group of BSPH students. This initiative was inspired by the memorandum between IHS and NUMS, emphasizing practical education and community wellbeing.

Following the course, students conducted awareness sessions at educational institutes, focusing on creating a healthier community. On December 4, 2023, a comprehensive visual acuity screening and awareness program occurred at Roots International School, PWD Rawalpindi. This initiative aligned with Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health & Wellbeing) and 10 (Reduced Inequality).

The session began with informative posters and charts to captivate students' attention, covering topics like maintaining optimal eye health, healthy diets, and eye exercises. A screening process identified potential vision problems, with interactive games like darts and a visual memory game enhancing the educational experience.

The overarching goal was to raise awareness about visual acuity, empowering students with practical knowledge and habits for eye health. Dr. Tamkeen Nishat Jaffry and Ms. Rubab Zulfiqar coordinated the activity, with students from BSPH Batch 3 and Batch 4 participating. Prof. Dr. Uzma Hassan, the head of the Department, praised the initiative, encouraging students to persist in contributing to a more educated and healthier community through informed choices. The school administration also appreciated the informative and engaging session on this critical aspect of health.

          


Reproductive Health Hygiene is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, particularly among adolescent girls who are at a crucial stage of physical and emotional development. The importance of addressing reproductive health hygiene in schools cannot be overstated, as it plays a pivotal role in shaping the future health and happiness of young individuals. The transition from childhood to adolescence is marked by significant changes in the body, and providing education and guidance on reproductive health hygiene at this stage is essential to empower girls with the knowledge and skills necessary for maintaining good health.

In accordance to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), NUMS Department of Public Health conducted an awareness session promoting Reproductive Health Hygiene among adolescent girls at Federal Government College of Home Economics and Management Sciences F-11/1 Islamabad on Wednesday 08 November 2023.

This session plays a crucial role in empowering young girls with essential knowledge and the transformative changes occurring during puberty, developing a sense of confidence and control. Moreover, a comprehensive understanding of reproductive health hygiene is instrumental in preventing a spectrum of health issues, from infections to unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Addressing these aspects in a supportive and educational environment not only contributes to psychosocial well-being by reducing stigma and promoting a positive self-image but also ensures educational continuity. Lack of awareness can lead to disruptions in education, as girls may miss school days due to menstrual hygiene-related discomfort.

Dr Raima Asif (Assistant Professor Public Health) moderated the session along with Noor Ul Ain Shah, Fizza Javed and Saarma Saleem (Batch 1 Students). The event started with a brief introduction of the subject followed by distribution of a questionnaire assessing the existing knowledge regarding the reproductive health hygiene. This was followed by a video presentation highlighting the importance of maintaining the menstrual hygiene as the habits and knowledge cultivated during adolescence form the bedrock for lifelong health practices. In the end a PowerPoint presentation was given to the students, providing education, fostering awareness, and promoting positive attitudes towards reproductive health.

The College administration appreciated and acknowledged the efforts of the faculty and students of NUMS Department of Public Health for conducting such an interactive session on an important health issue.

The Head of the Department, Prof. Dr. Uzma Hassan, appreciated the initiative taken by NUMS Department of Public Health. She also stressed on the importance of such sessions as they go beyond the classroom, extending to the overall well-being and empowerment of adolescent girls.

          



Prizes and can be a source of pride and a positive reinforcement for students. Monetary enticements act as a constructive support as well, since it helps students to strive for betterment and further improvement in academic performance. Universities that provide this incentive extend beyond just the monetary value. For this purpose, NUMS Department of Public Health arranged a prize distribution ceremony at the National University of Medical Sciences, PWD Campus on Monday, 29th May 2023 to honour the position holders of BSPH Batch I, II & III students.

The event was moderated by Dr Nasir Javaid (Lecturer Public Health). The event commenced with recitation of the Holy Quran. After that, Dr. Uzma Hassan, Head of Department Public Health distributed the cheques of Rs. 15,000/-, 10,000/- and 5,000/- to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd position holders respectively in their semesters. They are: -

• Batch 1 Semester VI: Saleha Ahmed (1st position), Fizza Javed (2nd position), and Yousaf Tariq (3rd position).

• Batch II Semester IV: Waleed Qaiser Sheikh (1st position), Fatima Saleem (2nd position), and Noor Fatima Khan (3rd position).

• Batch III Semester II: Ayesha Jamshed (1st position), Zahra Batool (2nd position), and Sofia Naseem (3rd position).

Apart from regular studies, extracurricular activities play a crucial role in a student's overall development. They provide opportunities for skill development, personal growth, social interaction, well-being, and exploration of interests. Engaging in these activities can have a positive impact on academic success, personal fulfillment, and future opportunities. The Department of Public Health decided to form multiple committees that will be handling various aspects of all events in order to effectively and efficiently manage them and to instill leadership, teamwork, and responsibility among students. Badges were awarded by the HoD to committees’ leads, coordinators, and secretaries as follows: -

• President: Fizza Javed (Batch-I)

• Vice-President: Hasnain Sabir (Batch-II)

• Event Committee Coordinator: Iffa Zahid (Batch-I)

• Event Committee Secretaries: Hamda Noor and Ayesha Jamshed (Batch-III)

• Entertainment Committee Coordinator: Eman Fatima Sahir (Batch-I)

• Entertainment Committee Secretaries: Hadiqa Mughal and Zehra Batool (Batch-III)

• Literary Committee Coordinator: Noor ul Ain Shah (Batch-I)

• Literary Committee Secretaries: Afreen Jamal and Salwa Manzoor (Batch-III)

• Media Committee Coordinator: Yashfa, Khan (Batch-I)

• Media Committee Secretaries: Ayesha Zubair and Saba Mushtaq (Batch-III)

The Head of the Department Public Health Prof. Dr. Uzma Hassan in her closing remarks appreciated the students for scoring positions and receiving incentives for their hard work. She also congratulated them for fulfilling their responsibility and managing different areas of their expertise to make each event of the department a complete success. She was highly appreciative of the focal person of the event Dr Nasir Javaid (Lecturer Public Health) for his remarkable job. She also appreciated other members of her team of Department of Public Health; Dr. Tamkeen Jaffry, Dr. Hina Shan, Dr. Raima Asif ,Ms. Rubab Zulfiqar and Mr Attique Arshad on their hard work and commendable job. At the end, she thanked the Digital Technologies Directorate, Administration Directorate, Public Affairs Directorate and Department of Student Affairs for facilitating in the successful conduct of the event.

        


Raising our voices against sexual harassment and gender-based violence is an ongoing effort that requires persistence and collective action. By advocating for change, supporting survivors, and promoting education and awareness, we can work towards creating a society that is free from harassment and violence. The NUMS Department of Public Health conducted an awareness talk on “Breaking the Silence: Empowering Voices against Sexual Harassment and Gender-Based Violence” held at the National University of Medical Sciences, PWD Campus on Monday, 29 May 2023 at 1100 hours to enlighten students about sexual harassment and gender-based violence. This is also in line with various Sustainable Development Goals including SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reducing Inequalities)

Dr. Erum Monis (Deputy Director Quality Assurance & Public Health Professional) was the guest speaker at the event. It was a very instructive and encouraging session. Dr. Erum highlighted how essential it is for the survivors to break the silence and share the experiences which can help to create a supportive environment and challenge the culture of victim blaming. She stressed on engaging in conversations about gender equality, toxic masculinity, and the importance of consent while encouraging positive portrayals of relationships and promoting gender equity which can contribute to changing cultural attitudes and behaviors. She also emphasized on the importance of promoting platforms for survivors to share their stories and supporting dialogue around these issues for changing societal attitudes.

The Head of the Department Public Health Prof. Dr Uzma Hassan in her concluding remarks emphasized on raising awareness about sexual harassment and gender-based violence. She stressed upon the importance of educating individuals about harassment, consent, and respectful behavior as it helps to foster a culture of respect and understanding.

At the end, the HoD expressed her gratitude for the guest speaker for taking out her precious time to grace the event and sharing valuable information. She also appreciated her departmental and other staff for the smooth conduct of the event.

        


In this fast-paced and demanding world, prioritizing and empowering our wellness is crucial for accomplishing sustainable health. This journey towards sustainable health involves embracing practices that support physical, mental, and emotional well-being while encouraging long-term balance and resilience. It focuses on self-reflection, experimentation, and embracing what works best for our well-being.

NUMS Department of Public Health in collaboration with Firefly NGO, a premier Non-Government Organization for Mental Health is dedicated to raise awareness, change the talk, and find solutions for the youth. In this regard a Seminar titled “Empowering Wellness: A journey to Sustainable Health” was held at the National University of Medical Sciences, PWD campus on Wednesday 24th May 2023 which is also in line with various Sustainable Development Goals including SDG 3 ( Good Health and Wellbeing) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). Prof Brig(Retd) Naila Azam HOD Department of Community Medicine Foundation University Medical College graced the occasion with her presence as a guest speaker.

The event started with a recitation of the Holy Quran. The lead of NUMS Firefly Committee highlighted the achievements of organization since its collaboration and briefed about the future goals.  It was followed by the presentation on the journey of World Health Organization (WHO)  a Primary arm of UN since its inception in 1948, titled  “ 75 Years History of  WHO in Improving Public Health” . The most exciting segment of the event was Arts and Fun activities focusing on the cognitive physical and mental skills in which BSPH students from all the batches and the esteemed DPH faculty participated enthusiastically. The activities included tongue twisters, wanna spoon, an eating challenge, tug of war, a spelling bee, dumb charades and Chinese whisper. Sketching, Drawing, poster, and painting competitions that reflected the talent of skillful students were also held and the winners were awarded certificates.

Another highlight of the event was Handprint Activity that took place in the university compound area to allow students come together as a community and demonstrate their unwavering support for individuals facing physical or mental illnesses.

Prof Brig(Retd) Naila Azam was very pleased by the performance of the BSPH students. She shared her valuable insights and words of sage, which were very stimulating and motivational.  The Head of Department Public Health Prof.Dr Uzma Hassan in her concluding remarks stressed on the importance of such events for students as it provides insight into diverse topics and motivate them to explore new areas of interest. She congratulated and appreciated the focal person of this seminar Dr. Tamkeen Jaffry (Associate Professor) for this commendable job. She also appreciated  Dr. Hina Shan(Assistant Professor) ,Dr. Raima Asif(Assistant Professor),  Ms. Rubab Zulfiqar(Lecturer), Dr Nasir Javaid (Lecturer),  and Mr. Attique Arshad(Sub Office Assistant)for organizing the event. The HoD applauded the efforts of all the students, stating that these activities were vivifying and gave a sense of gratification for the holistic well-being of the students and encouraged to keep conducting such events in future too. At the end, she also appreciated the Digital Technologies Directorate, Administration Directorate, Public Affairs Directorate and Department of Student Affairs for providing conducive environment facilitating the successful conduction of this seminar.

        


Maintaining a positive mental health and treating any mental health conditions is crucial to stabilizing constructive behaviors, emotions, and thoughts. Focusing on mental health care can increase productivity, enhance our self-image, and improve relationships. By making a concerted effort to spread mental health awareness, we can work to de-stigmatize how we think about, approach, and identify mental health issues in our society. For this purpose, NUMS Department of Public Health conducted an awareness session for BSPH Students on Importance of Mental Health held at the National University of Medical Sciences, PWD campus on Wednesday, 24 May 2023 at 11:00 hours, which is also in line with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing).

Prof Brig(Retd) Naila Azam Head of Department Community Medicine, Foundation University Medical College was the guest speaker of the session. She is known for her extensive knowledge and vast experience in this field and addressing various aspects of Public Health issues. It was a very instructive and encouraging session, highlighting how essential it is to focus on mental health, as both mental and physical health are equally important components of overall health. She also emphasized on the importance of early diagnosis of mental health problems because poor mental health can lead to problems such as the inability to make adequate decisions, substance use disorders and can affect our thoughts, actions & interactions. Furthermore, she highlighted the importance of Public Health in the coming era and appreciated the efforts of BSPH Students for the community work they are doing for the wellness of Humanity.

The Head of the Department of Public Health Prof.Dr Uzma Hassan in her concluding remarks emphasized on importance of addressing the mental health issues to stay psychologically healthy and keeping up with educational and personal goals. She also discussed the significance of stress management, as it can be a vital aspect of student success, especially for busy students who are successful academically but managing to improve mental health outcomes. She congratulated the focal person of this event Dr. Raima Asif (Assistant Professor Public Health) for successfully organizing this session. She also appreciated the efforts of her faculty and students for organizing this valuable talk.

The HoD also expressed her gratefulness to honorable guest for taking out her precious time to grace the event with her presence and presented a certificate and Shield. At the end, she also appreciated the Digital Technologies Directorate, Administration Directorate, Public Affairs Directorate and Department of Student Affairs for providing conducive environment facilitating the successful conduction of this session. 

        










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