The sports nutrition course visit to fitness centers is paramount for nutrition students. It provides a unique opportunity to bridge the theoretical understanding of sports nutrition with its practical application in a fitness setting. This hands-on experience is invaluable for students, enhancing their comprehension and skills in the field.

On December 12, 2023, students in their sixth semester, currently undertaking the sports nutrition course at the NUMS Department of Nutrition and Dietetics (NDND), visited Bahria Active in Bahria Town Rawalpindi. This fitness institution is renowned for its cutting-edge services and state-of-the-art facilities, featuring a well-equipped gym and expert trainers. Dr. Sana Ikram and Miss Tara Khursheed accompanied students during this educational excursion.

Ms. Shah Taj Butt, a certified fitness trainer and other experts at Bahria Active, conducted a comprehensive workshop, engaging students in different workout activities, emphasizing the alignment of proper nutrition with specific fitness goals. This experience promotes a holistic understanding of the interdisciplinary collaboration needed to enhance overall health and well-being, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 on Good Health and Well-being.

The tailored question/answer session facilitated students in addressing uncertainties and gaining insights from experienced professionals. The visit highlighted the pivotal role of sports nutrition, unveiling it as a promising career path for aspiring nutritionists. This connection between academic learning and practical exposure benefits individual students. It aligns with SDG 4 on Quality Education by fostering experiential learning and preparing students for impactful roles in promoting health and well-being.

NUMS's Department of Nutrition and Dietetics organized a practical visit to the Mother & Child Health Care Centre at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad on December 20, 2023, to connect theoretical knowledge to practical implementation. The visit included 21 VI Semester students enrolled in the Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) course and their teacher, Ms. Juweria Abid.

During a visit, Dr. Mahzeb from a health center talked about the importance of breastfeeding and Kangaroo Mother Care. The session emphasized the significance of breastfeeding for infant health, aligning with SDG 3. Students observed breastfeeding practices and counseling sessions in the hospital's gynecology wards, promoting experiential learning and aligning with SDG 4.

Furthermore, this practical visit exemplifies SDG 17 on Partnership for Goals, fostering collaboration among educational institutions, healthcare providers, and students and enhancing efforts for sustainable and inclusive IYCF practices.

The visit to PIMS was an incredibly valuable opportunity for students to learn hands-on about infant and young child feeding concepts. The focus on promoting Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) and breastfeeding, which aligns with the SDGs, added depth to their understanding and prepared them to make meaningful contributions in the field of IYCF.

The Food Science Research Institute (FSRI) at the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) is a distinguished national institution dedicated to food and nutrition research and development. Renowned for its excellence in food analysis services, including physio-chemical, nutritional, microbiological, and food safety analysis. FSRI is also crucial in training small businesses and entrepreneurs for cottage industry food production.

On December 18, 2023, Dr. Zehra Parveen guided fourth-semester students from the NUMS Department of Nutrition and Dietetics during an educational visit to FSRI. This visit gave students practical insights into various food analytical protocols, enhancing their understanding of food processing, safety, and innovation.

This visit is a valuable platform for students to engage with experts, exchange ideas, and expand their knowledge. It aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2 on Zero Hunger and Goal 3 on Good Health and Well-being. It represents a unique opportunity for students to enhance their practical understanding of food analytical protocols, enriching their knowledge in food processing, safety, and innovation. Ultimately, this prepares them for dynamic roles in global food security.

Education is crucial for individual, community, and national development. NUMS is committed to quality education and gender equality. Merit scholarships are awarded to top performers in various disciplines to foster healthy competition and academic excellence, in line with Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 5.

The NUMS Department of Nutrition and Dietetics awarded merit scholarships to three batches of BS Human Nutrition and Dietetics students based on their Spring 2023 GPA. Dr. Umar Farooq, Head of the Department, distributed scholarship cheques to the highest achievers at a ceremony held on December 14, 2023, at NUMS Basement Hall.

The following students received the merit scholarship cheques:

Semester VI (Session 2021-25)

1.         Maryam Nisar                                            1^st Position                                          

2.         Mahnoor Aslam                                          2^nd Position                                        

3.         Aimen Abid                                                3^rd Position                                         

Semester VI (Session 2022-26)

1.         Wajeeha Sakina                                          1^st Position                                         

2.         Shaiza Zulifqar                                           2^nd Position                                        

3.         Ayesha Wahid                                            3^rd Position                        

Semester II (Session 2023-27)

1.         Syeda Hiba Ajmal                                      1^st Position                                         

2.         Manaal Saeed                                             2^nd Position                                        

3.         Ayesha Awan                                             3^rd Position                                         

One of the most important aspects of overall health of an individual is a good nutritional status. One of the most crucial factors influencing an individual's overall health is maintaining a good nutritional status. Consequently, the significance of nutrition education and awareness cannot be overstated in terms of sensitizing the community to healthy eating habits and adopting a healthier lifestyle. Generally, there is a limited understanding of nutrition and health-related knowledge among the masses in Pakistan. Therefore, it is imperative to raise awareness about the importance of a balanced diet, physical activity, stress reduction, and sleep quality.

With this in mind, Dr. Abdul Momin, Assistant Professor at the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, NUMS, conducted three distinct nutrition awareness and community outreach sessions at Mobilink Microfinance Bank Limited (MMBL), F-8, Islamabad. Two of these sessions were centered around the topic "Healthy Lifestyle in the Corporate World – Is it Possible?" and were attended by more than 90 MMBL employees each.

The third session, tailored specifically to meet the needs of the janitorial staff, took place at MMBL, Koral Head Office, Judicial Colony, Islamabad. Titled "Budget-Friendly Meal Planning," this session was attended by over 40 janitorial staff. The session was designed with a focus on the principles of "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion," addressing how underserved community females and males could fulfill their daily caloric and nutritional requirements on a tight budget.

These nutrition awareness sessions and community outreach programs align with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). The NUMS Department of Nutrition & Dietetics is committed to continuing such awareness sessions and community outreach programs in the twin cities and beyond.

One of the most important aspects of overall health of an individual is a good nutritional status. One of the most crucial factors influencing an individual's overall health is maintaining a good nutritional status. Consequently, the significance of nutrition education and awareness cannot be overstated in terms of sensitizing the community to healthy eating habits and adopting a healthier lifestyle. Generally, there is a limited understanding of nutrition and health-related knowledge among the masses in Pakistan. Therefore, it is imperative to raise awareness about the importance of a balanced diet, physical activity, stress reduction, and sleep quality.

With this in mind, Dr. Abdul Momin, Assistant Professor at the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, NUMS, conducted three distinct nutrition awareness and community outreach sessions at Mobilink Microfinance Bank Limited (MMBL), F-8, Islamabad. Two of these sessions were centered around the topic "Healthy Lifestyle in the Corporate World – Is it Possible?" and were attended by more than 90 MMBL employees each.

The third session, tailored specifically to meet the needs of the janitorial staff, took place at MMBL, Koral Head Office, Judicial Colony, Islamabad. Titled "Budget-Friendly Meal Planning," this session was attended by over 40 janitorial staff. The session was designed with a focus on the principles of "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion," addressing how underserved community females and males could fulfill their daily caloric and nutritional requirements on a tight budget.

These nutrition awareness sessions and community outreach programs align with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). The NUMS Department of Nutrition & Dietetics is committed to continuing such awareness sessions and community outreach programs in the twin cities and beyond.

National Institutes of Health (NIH), Islamabad is a prestigious public health organization providing various aspects of healthcare and facilities. NIH is actively involved in multi-disciplinary technical, administrative and health facilities. This organization aims at combating the challenges of epidemics, outbreaks of viral diseases and emerging infections in the population. NIH has introduced new advancements in the field of laboratory, diagnostics, vaccines & immunization and food & drug quality control. At the same time, NIH has well equipped training facilities for health professionals.

A group of students of NUMS Department of Nutrition and Dietetics (NDND) visited National Institute of Health (NIH) on 25th May 2023. The students were accompanied by Miss Tara Khursheed, Dr. Sana Ikram and Ms. Juweria Abid. The purpose of the visit was to engage students in practical learning experience in the field of Nutritional Biochemistry. The event was specifically intended to enhance their understanding of the subject through practical activities and demonstrations regarding food analysis, DNA Extraction, use of HPLC, spectrophotometer and hands on experiments related to nutrition. The visit also exposed students to the research facilities and resources available at NIH. All students actively participated in practical sessions conducted by experienced Biochemist and Researchers at NIH. They had the opportunity to explore state of the art laboratories, research equipment, and observe ongoing research projects related to nutrition and health sciences. The event provided a platform for students to network with professionals in the field of nutrition and health sciences. A dedicated question/answer session allowed to students to clarify doubts and gain insights from experienced professionals.

The visit acknowledged positive feedback from the students, who appreciated the interactive nature of the visit, the expertise of the facilitators, and the opportunity to engage in practical activities.

Everyone wants their child to grow up not only healthy and confident, both also physically and intellectually. Your child's health is significantly affected if you do not take into account the significance of healthy eating and dietary choices. Therefore, giving your child the right nutrients at a time when their growth and development are accelerating can prepare them for a healthy and balanced life.
Pakistan is facing a serious problem of child under malnutrition. On one side, we are facing the problems of stunting, wasting and underweight, while on the other side, 9.5% Pakistani children are also overweight. Understanding the appalling status of Pakistan's nutrition indices and the necessity of delivering nutrition education at the local and state level, NUMS department of Nutrition & Dietetics conducted two training sessions for students at SLS School Senior branch, PWD campus on 13th February 2023 (Monday). In the 1st session, Grades II & III students were trained regarding the “Importance of Milk” by Dr. Zehra and Miss Tara. In the 2nd session, Dr. Sana Ikram talked about the “Importance of Breakfast” which was attended by Grade IV & V students. In the first session, 320 students and 15 teachers participated while in the second session, the number of students was 217 along with 7 teachers.
These training sessions were conducted in accordance with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good health and well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality education). NUMS department of Nutrition & Dietetics aims to continue conducting such training sessions in various schools in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

NUMS Department of Nutrition & Dietetics (NDND) organized an orientation session for the newly admitted students of BS – HND (Human Nutrition & Dietetics) program on February 20, 2023. The session was chaired by the Head of the Department Dr. Abdul Momin Rizwan Ahmad. Other faculty members included Dr. Umar Farooq (Associate Professor), Dr. Zehra Parveen and Dr. Sana Ikram (Assistant Professors), and Miss. Juweria Abid and Miss Tara Khursheed (Lecturers).

Dr. Umar Farooq started the session with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a welcome note by the worthy Dean, Prof. Dr. Aisha Mohyuddin.  After that, the HoD, Dr. Abdul Momin addressed the students, highlighting the significance of university education and the field of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. All the faculty members then introduced themselves to the students followed by students’ introduction to the faculty members. Dr. Zehra Parveen then introduced the program BS – Human Nutrition & Dietetics to the students. Dr. Sana Ikram presented the session titled “Introduction to Academics”, followed by Ms. Juweria Abid, who talked about “Examination and Assessment Policy” at NUMS.

After that, a Question and Answer session was held in which students asked several queries regarding the scope of degree, the future prospects, further fields of specialization and link with other degrees. Next, Ms. Aqsa from the Digital Technology Directorate presented in detail regarding the use of Moodle, which is the online Learning management software for students at NUMS. At the end of the session, Dr. Umar Farooq thanked all the participants for attending the orientation session. Students were also provided with refreshments.  

More Detail: Click Here

Keeping this in view, nutrition education needs to be imparted from the very beginning. Sadly, most of the developing countries such as Pakistan have not been able to focus on this particular aspect, resulting in poor nutrition-related national indicators.

Considering the severity of this grave problem, NUMS department of Nutrition & Dietetics arranged two training sessions for the students of SLS Montessori School & College, PWD campus. The first of these training sessions was organized on February 09, 2023, for students of Junior Montessori and Senior Montessori. Dr. Zehra Parveen and Ms. Tara Khursheed conducted the session which was attended by 151 students. A second session was arranged on February 10, 2023, for students of Advanced Montessori and Grade I. Dr. Abdul Momin and Dr. Sana Ikram conducted the session which was attended by 348 students. Overall, around 17 teachers along with the principal also attended the sessions on both days.

The topic for both the sessions was healthy versus junk foods. Students were initially shown two videos focusing on healthy and junk foods and the effects that their consumption has on our health. After that, a brief orientation was given to the students as per their level of understanding. Students were then asked about which foods were healthy and which were unhealthy. These training sessions were conducted in accordance with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good health and well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality education).

NUMS department of Nutrition & Dietetics aims to continue conducting such training sessions in various schools in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

NUMS team of nutritionists visited The Great Maple School, PWD campus as part of its campaign to create awareness about nutrition. A total of 19 students and 3 teachers attended the training session. They told the students that adapting to healthy eating patterns at a young age was very important for the appropriate growth and development of an individual. This does not only improve the immunity of individuals but is also associated with diseased risk for development of different diseases and fewer hospitalizations.

Dr. Umar Farooq and Miss. Juweria conducted the session for students of Grade IV to VIII. Their topic was “My Plate – The Guide to Healthy Eating”. During this activity, the resource persons focused on the significance of consuming foods regularly from 5 food groups, that is, fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, and dairy. The key takeaways from the activity were: a) fill half of the plate with vegetables and fruits: b) make at least half of the plate filled with whole grains c) take fat-free or low-fat milk and water rather than sugary drinks; d) don't consume oversized portions.

These training sessions were conducted in accordance with UN Sustainable Development Goals(SDG) 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good health and well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality education). NUMS aims to continue conducting such training sessions in various schools in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

NUMS Department of Nutrition and Dietetics has initiated a nutrition awareness and training program amongst   school students. In its first nutrition education and training session a team of nutritionists visited the Montessori class of “The International School System, PWD campus and informed the students that eating healthy could enhance the growth and development of a child's physical and mental capabilities. It also wards off potential health issues such as eating disorders, dental cavities, nutritional deficiencies, obesity, and others.

Considering the importance of nutritional awareness for the children, 40 students attended the session who were educated to adapt healthy eating patterns and avoid the frequent consumption of junk foods.

Dr. Sana Ikram and Mrs. Tara Khursheed conducted the session on Feb 6, 2023 (Monday) and motivated the children to start their week with a healthy meal. The Montessori students were provided with placards which helped them to distinguish the healthy food items (fruits, vegetables, and meat) from the unhealthy junk items (pizzas, burgers, and soft drinks). The seminar was conducted under the banner of “Eat Healthy Today for A Better Tomorrow (Healthy V/S Junk food)”.

These nutrition education training sessions were conducted in accordance with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good health and well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality education). NUMS department of Nutrition & Dietetics aims to continue conducting such training sessions in various schools of the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

A well-balanced diet is very important for the growth and development of children. Milk although is one of the primary foods for children of growing age, it has been seen that its consumption greatly decreases after infancy. As a good source of many important nutrients including calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and protein; this group is a crucial part of a well-  balanced diet. Eating or drinking dairy products offers several health benefits such as building and maintaining strong bones and teeth and increased absorption of Vitamin D.

Generally, Pakistani children do not consume enough milk daily. This fact is also evident from the results of the National Nutrition Survey of Pakistan 2018-19, which shows that 13.3% children under the age of 5 had severe vitamin D deficiency. Taking it into consideration, the NUMS department of Nutrition and Dietetics conducted yet another productive training session for students of Grade I to IV at the United Charter School, PWD campus on Feb 8, 2023 (Wednesday). Dr. Zehra Parveen and Dr. Sana Ikram enlightened a group of 20 students and 6 teachers on the importance of daily milk & dairy consumption.

These training sessions were conducted in accordance with UN Sustainable and Development Goals (SDG) 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good health and well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality education). NUMS department of Nutrition & Dietetics aims to continue conducting such training sessions in various schools in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.