The International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) University of Karachi, took the lead in emphasizing global preparedness for future pandemics during the inauguration of a 45-day international training course on virology and pandemic response.
Healthcare experts, researchers, and senior government officials attending the event stressed that preparedness before the onset of any pandemic is a collective responsibility requiring an integrated and coordinated approach. They underlined that the National Institute of Virology (NIV), housed within ICCBS’s Dr Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research (PCMD), conducted the highest number of COVID-19 tests in Pakistan, playing a crucial national role during the crisis.
The workshop, titled “COMSTECH–PCMD International Training Course in Virology and Pandemic Preparedness,” is jointly organized by OIC-COMSTECH and the Dr Panjwani Center at the University of Karachi. The inaugural session was held at the Prof. Salimuzzaman Siddiqui Auditorium, ICCBS.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Prof Dr Nazli Hossain, Vice Chancellor of Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) and chief guest of the event, emphasized the importance of collaboration among institutions and nations during pandemics. She noted that COVID-19 redefined the meaning of a “global village,” as it united countries through shared challenges and coordinated responses. She praised ICCBS and COMSTECH for creating a platform that equips scientists with essential skills to tackle emerging global health threats.
Sindh’s Special Health Secretary, Jamshaid Alam Memon, representing Health Minister Dr Azra Pechuho, highlighted the Sindh Health Department’s significant role during the pandemic and welcomed international participants to the training program.
Prof Dr Muhammad Raza Shah, Director of ICCBS, reiterated that preparedness for future pandemics is not optional but essential. He lauded the unwavering support of the Sindh Government in ICCBS initiatives and called the institute a “premier national facility” serving both Pakistan and the global scientific community.
OIC-COMSTECH Coordinator General, Prof Dr Iqbal Choudhary, praised the NIV’s national contributions during the pandemic, describing it as a model of scientific excellence and service. He said COMSTECH is committed to strengthening research collaboration and innovation among OIC member states to boost resilience against global health crises.
Ms Nadira Panjwani, Chairperson of the Dr Panjwani Memorial Trust, urged global health institutions to adopt proactive measures against future pandemics. “Pandemics do not respect borders, rules, or regulations—they can be fatal,” she warned, recalling historical outbreaks such as the Black Death and HIV/AIDS to emphasize the dire consequences of complacency.
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The ICCBS continues to play a pivotal role in advancing scientific research, health security, and international collaboration through its state-of-the-art facilities and global training initiatives, positioning Pakistan as a key contributor to pandemic preparedness and virology research.