Empowering Healthcare: Pakistan Launches First-Ever BSc in Midwifery Program
Islamaba : vThe Government of Pakistan has proudly launched its first-ever Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Midwifery Program, a significant milestone in advancing maternal and child healthcare and achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). This landmark initiative was inaugurated by Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on National Health Service Regulations & Coordination, during a ceremony attended by distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and future leaders in midwifery.
Dr. Bharath emphasized the Government of Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Universal Health Coverage. He highlighted the pressing need for a robust health workforce to address Pakistan’s critical shortage of trained midwives, community health workers, and pediatric specialists. This shortage poses a significant challenge to maternal and child health outcomes and affects the quality and availability of healthcare nationwide.
“Evidence shows that trained midwives can prevent over 80% of maternal deaths, stillbirths, and newborn deaths when they work within a strong health system,” said Dr. Bharath. “This is why the launch of Pakistan’s first-ever Bachelor of Science in Midwifery Program is a landmark achievement.”
The BSc in Midwifery Program is a collaborative initiative supported by UNFPA, the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination, and the Government of Pakistan. The program is being offered through the Health Services Academy and Fatima Jinnah University Lahore, with its first batch of 80 students enrolled in Spring 2024.
Dr. Bharath described the program as more than an academic endeavor. “This initiative empowers women, promotes gender equity, and brings meaningful change to healthcare in Pakistan,” he stated. By equipping midwives with advanced skills and knowledge, the program aims to tackle Pakistan’s maternal and newborn health challenges while fostering women’s empowerment and advancing social progress.
He extended his gratitude to UNFPA for its generous support and acknowledged the leadership of the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination in making this program a reality. “The launch of this program reflects our collective commitment to creating a healthier, more equitable Pakistan,” he added.
The program’s focus on maternal and newborn health aligns with Pakistan’s broader health goals, including reducing maternal, newborn, and infant mortality and managing population growth. As Dr. Bharath highlighted, these efforts have far-reaching implications for the nation’s economic and social well-being.
Looking ahead, Dr. Bharath expressed optimism that the program will accelerate progress toward achieving Universal Health Coverage in Pakistan. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting the midwifery profession and improving healthcare outcomes for all.
