Home Blog Page 187

Hepatitis C control pilot program launched in GB

0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP):The government has started Hepatitis C control pilot program in two districts of Gilgit-Baltistan under the Prime Minister’s  National Program for the Elimination of Hepatitis C infection in Pakistan.
According to spokesperson of the Ministry of Health, under the program, people are being provided free access to screening and treatment facilities.
Coordinator to Prime Minister on Health, Dr. Mukhtar Bharath said that with the support of Aga Khan Development Network, a pilot phase has been started at two locations in Gilgit-Baltistan, MC Chalas Diamer and UC Markunja Shagar.
 Dr. Mukhtar Bharath said that after learning from this pilot program, the main program will be started this year in Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan and all districts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and all other provinces.
He said that Hepatitis C is a major public health disease in Pakistan. He added Pakistan now ranks first in the world with the highest prevalence of hepatitis.
 Dr. Mukhtar Bharath said that the prevalence of Hepatitis-C is increasing continuously in Pakistan.
He said that the program of Rs 68 billion has been started with the cooperation of the federation and the four provinces.
He said that the Ministry of Health has formulated an integrated strategy to ensure the eradication of hepatitis.
 Dr. Mukhtar Bharath said that the aim of this program is to prevent the widespread spread of hepatitis C in Pakistan.
He said that early detection and treatment of patients through screening and testing is essential to eradicate the disease.
He said millions of Pakistanis remain unaware of their infection status due to lack of timely awareness screening.
 Dr. Mukhtar Bharath said that the program will educate communities, community workers and health care providers about disease prevention.
 He said that Hepatitis C can be cured with only three months of treatment.
He added timely detection of hepatitis C infected patients in screening is a major challenge. Liver failure and liver cancer can be avoided with timely treatment, he added.
He said that the support of civil society, professional groups, and media is very important for the success of this national goal.
He said that provision of information to the public and provision of equipment to health care providers will also be ensured.

Second day of exhibition at SCCI held

0
SARGODHA, Feb 22 (APP):The second day of exhibition was held at Sargodha Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SWCCI) on Saturday.
The aim of this exhibition was the showcasing of business ideas for woman exhibition was underway with full public interest.
According to a spokesperson,the event was attended by SWCCI President Shammim Aftab,Senior Vice President(VP) Sumaira Hurraira,Vice President(VP) Adila Aslam,Former Vice President(VP) Tanzila Fayyaz,Sadia Khan,newly elected executive members and representatives from Sanatzaar,TEVTA, and various other organizations.
The exhibition received widespread appreciation from women in the business community,who lauded the organizers for their efforts in creating a platform to support aspiring female entrepreneurs.
President SWCCI Shammim Aftab highlighted the organization’s commitment to fostering collaboration and empowering women eager to start their own businesses.
She further said that such initiatives play a crucial role in uniting diverse groups and promoting economic opportunities for women.

Death anniversary of renowned Urdu poet Josh Malihabadi observed

0

ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP): The 43rd death anniversary of legendary Urdu poet Shabbir Hassan Khan, popularly known as Josh Malihabadi was observed on Saturday.

Born on December 5, 1898, in Malihabad, Josh contributed poetic works in Urdu and he was given the title of “Poet of Revolution and Youth”.

His work “Yadon Ki Baarat” became famous as a poetry collection.

Josh Malihabadi wrote numerous books comprising poems and ghazals and also wrote some books of prose.

He was posthumously awarded Hilal-e-Imtiaz in 2013.

He died on February 22, 1982.

Commissioner for stern action against overcharging in cattle markets

0
MULTAN, Feb 22 (APP):Commissioner district Aamir Kareem Khan on Saturday directed officers concerned to ensure strict action against overcharging in the 10 cattle markets of the division.
According to a spokesperson,Commissioner directed the district administration to closely monitor the pricing in these markets to prevent any exploitation of buyers and traders.
He issued a stern warning,stating that legal action will be taken against those involved in overpricing.
He further instructed that the official rate list be prominently displayed at all cattle markets to ensure transparency.
He stated that any complaints from citizens or traders regarding excessive prices should be addressed immediately.”The establishment of cattle markets aims to provide convenience to both buyers and traders,” he added.
The commissioner has directed the model cattle market authorities to collect only the officially approved fees.
He also stressed the need to improve sanitation conditions in the markets to create a better environment for all stakeholders.

MD APP felicitates IRNA chief for 90th anniversary

0

ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP): Managing Director, Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), Muhammad Asim Khichi on Saturday felicitated Dr Hossain Jaberi Ansari, Managing Director of the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) and his team on achieving the incredible milestone of 90 years of dedicated service in journalism.

“Your unwavering commitment to truth, awareness, and progress has played a vital role in shaping public discourse and strengthening the foundations of your nation”, said MD APP in his felicitation message to MD IRNA.

He said that over the past 90 years, the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) has been a beacon of reliable information, empowering citizens with knowledge and upholding the principles of free and responsible journalism.

“This remarkable achievement is a testament to your hard work, integrity, and dedication to the greater good,” he added.

“As you celebrate this historic moment, we extend our best wishes for continued success and innovation in the years ahead. May you keep inspiring, informing, and guiding generations to come,” MD APP added.

He said that APP and IRNA have had a news exchange agreement since 1981 and sharing news of mutual interests and regional and international development.

Asim Khichi said the world has now become a global city in which media play a very important role, adding that news collaboration among regional news agencies is a must to give first-hand and reliable information to its people.

He said official news agencies of Pakistan and Iran –APP and IRNA are disseminating accurate, rapid information and providing a true image of events to their subscribers and audience.

He said the news exchange agreement between APP and IRNA would be further strengthened for benefit of the people of brotherly countries.

AKFP to extend health services

0
BAHAWALPUR, Feb 22 (APP):Al-Khidmat Foundation Pakistan (AKFP) on Saturday has made preparations to extend its health services program to far flung areas of the country.
A ceremony of fund generation was held here that was organized by AKFP.
It was presided over by Vice President(VC),AKFP,Air Marshal (retd) Arshad Malik and other leaders.
The participants of the ceremony were apprised that AKFP had planned to extend its health services program to more far flung areas of the country.
Malik said that AKF had been running operation of 56 hospitals and health centers where 4.2 million patients were provided health services including medical treatment of major diseases.
He further said that AKFP had been caring 32 thousands orphan children in different ways including provision of food,education and healthcare.
He said that AKFP had spent a sum of Rs 6 billion in assistance in Gaza belt for welfare of oppressed people of Palestine.
Vice President(VP),Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan,South Punjab chapter,Syed Zeeshan Akhtar said that AKFP had been running several social welfare projects in the region,in different fields including education,health services and financial assistance.

Pakistan reports 3rd polio case

0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP):The Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication at the National Institute of Health (NIH) has confirmed the detection of the third wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) case of 2025.
The lab confirmed a polio case from District Larkana, Sindh.
This is the second polio case reported from Sindh this year, bringing the total number of cases to two in Sindh and one in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Last year in 2024, a total of 74 cases were reported. Of these, 27 were from Balochistan, 22 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 23 from Sindh, and one each from Punjab and Islamabad.
Polio is a paralyzing disease that has no cure. Multiple doses of the oral polio vaccine and completion of the routine vaccination schedule for all children under the age of five is essential to provide children high immunity against this terrible disease.
The Pakistan Polio Program conducts multiple mass vaccination drives in a year, bringing the vaccine to children at their doorsteps, while the Expanded Program on Immunization provides vaccinations against 12 childhood disease free of charge at health facilities.
It is crucial for parents to ensure vaccination for all their children under the age of five to keep them protected.
The first nationwide polio campaign of 2025 has been successfully concluded, with 99% of the targets achieved across the country.
The campaign was conducted from February 3 to 9, 2025. During this campaign, more than 45 million children were administered the polio vaccine.
A second round of the Big Catch-Up activity is currently underway in the country, to vaccinate children up to 5 years with EPI antigens.
The Pakistan Polio Program launched a Fractional IPV-OPV Polio campaign in Quetta Division and Karachi on February 20 and February 22 respectively.
Around one million children are being targeted for vaccination in this campaign.
Moreover, a vaccination activity targeting 104 UCs bordering Afghanistan or having Afghan refugee camps/populations is scheduled from 24 – 28 February.
A total of 0.66 million children will be targeted for vaccination during this activity.

Traffic police issues 385 challans,imposes over Rs two lac fine in a single day

0
MUZAFARGARH, Feb 22 (APP):Traffic police on Saturday launched a significant crackdown on traffic rules violations,issued 385 challans and imposed fine amounting Rs.267,450 in a single day.
Additionally,FIRs were registered against 13 vehicles.To prevent road accidents,reflective strips were installed on more than 50 trollies and handcarts as part of the safety initiative.
District Police Officer (DPO) Dr. Rizwan Ahmed Khan emphasized the continuation of public awareness campaigns on a regular basis.
He stated that all possible resources would be utilized to ensure the safety of human lives.
According to the police spokesperson,DPO Dr. Rizwan Ahmed Khan has issued firm instructions to District Traffic Officer (DTO) Muhammad Abu Bakar to ensure smooth traffic flow and prioritize the protection of human lives.
He clarified that the traffic police have no revenue targets for fines; however,strict penalties will be imposed for serious violations that endanger lives.
Dr.Rizwan Ahmed Khan highlighted that the performance of the traffic police was being monitored daily.
He urged officers to treat drivers with respect and professionalism.
Addressing concerns about corruption,the DPO revealed that secret teams are conducting surprise checks.
He warned,“If any employee was found involved in corruption,not only will they lose their job,but they will also face strict legal action.”
DPO Dr. Rizwan Ahmed Khan reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring complete transparency in traffic management operations.
He assured the public that all efforts would be made to maintain law and order on the roads,with a special focus on safeguarding human lives.

Sukkur IBA University to host vibrant Flower Exhibition 2025

0
SUKKUR, Feb 22 (APP):Sukkur IBA University is set to host the Flower Exhibition 2025 on Sunday, February 23, 2025. The event, open to the public, will showcase a stunning display of flowers, plants, and creative floral arrangements.
The exhibition aims to promote environmental awareness, celebrate nature’s beauty, and encourage gardening among attendees. A variety of flowers, ornamental plants, and floral arrangements will be on display, making it an ideal outing for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Syed Khurshid Ahmed Shah, a Member of the National Assembly, will grace the event as the Chief Guest. Visitors can expect interactive activities, engaging sessions on gardening and horticulture, and a visually captivating experience.
The exhibition will be held from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, with free entry. Sukkur IBA University invites the community to join in this delightful celebration of flowers and greenery.

48 miscreants in Kurram arrested: IGP told

0
PESHAWAR, Feb 22 (APP):At least 48 miscreants in Kurram tribal district has been arrested and further actions would continue to ensure lasting peace in the region.
This was told during a meeting attended  by Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Shahab Ali Shah and Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Zulfiqar Hameed in Kohat district where they chaired a high-level meeting to review the overall security situation in Kurram.
The meeting assessed the latest law and order developments, recent incidents, and the measures taken to address them, said an official communique issued here.
It was decided during the meeting that operations against terrorist elements involved in recent incidents would be further intensified.
The protection of citizens’ lives and property, along with efforts to improve their quality of life, will remain a top priority, and peace will be restored in all circumstances.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police and other law enforcement agencies are implementing a comprehensive strategy to eliminate miscreants effectively. Additionally, the crackdown on those providing support and facilitation to such elements is being tightened.
The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reiterated that there was no room for miscreants or their facilitators, and all individuals involved would be held accountable under the law.

NDF & IUCN conducts training on boat engine operation, maintenance for Fishermen in Sujawal

0

SUJAWAL Feb 22 (APP):In an effort to promote the development of coastal areas and improve the welfare of fishermen in Pakistan, the National Development and Development Forum (NDF) organized a training workshop on boat engine operation and maintenance in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

This workshop aimed to provide fishermen with essential knowledge on engine repair, maintenance, and operation.

During the training, participants were given detailed information about engine repairs, solutions to various technical issues, and general maintenance practices.

The training not only included theoretical knowledge but also offered practical lessons in boat engine repair and maintenance skills.

The goal of the training was to increase the fishermen’s self-reliance in their daily activities and equip them with modern technical skills to enhance their performance.

This collaboration between NDF and IUCN represents a significant step in improving the economic conditions of fishermen in Sujawal’s coastal areas and enhancing their professional capabilities.

UNSC urges Rwanda to pullout troops from Congo; Pakistan pushes for peace talks

0

UITED NATIONS, Feb 22 (APP): The UN Security Council unanimously has adopted a resolution condemning Rwanda for backing a rebellion in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and ordering its troops to withdraw from the country, with Pakistan urging the parties to comply with the verdict to restore peace and stability there.

“All parties must prioritize dialogue and diplomacy and recommit to the peace and mediation processes in place, going forward,” Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, alternative permanent representative of Pakistan to the UN, told the 15-member Council as the situation as the situation in DRC worsened.

The meeting took place as M23 rebels and Rwandan soldiers took over two main cities in Congo’s mineral-rich east over the last month and continued to expand their territory, displacing nearly a million people and bringing the central African Great Lakes region to the brink of war.

The resolution called on the Rwanda Defence Forces to stop supporting the armed group and immediately withdraw from Congolese territory “without preconditions.”

The Council reiterated its urgent appeal for all parties to conclude an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, as called for by leaders from East and Southern Africa.

They also strongly urged the DRC and Rwanda “to return without preconditions to diplomatic talks as a matter of urgency to achieve a lasting and peaceful resolution of the protracted conflict in the region.”

The resolution was submitted by France whose Ambassador, Nicolas de Rivière, who thanked Council members for their commitment during negotiations over the past week.

“This delivers a clear message: there is no military solution to the conflict in the east of the DRC,” he said. “The offensive carried out by the M23 supported by Rwanda must be put to an end.”

The situation in the eastern DRC has deteriorated since January as M23 fighters advanced across North and South Kivu provinces, with the crisis spreading to Ituri.

They have captured the regional capital Goma and the second city, Bukavu. Thousands of people have been killed and even more displaced, including to neighbouring countries such as Burundi.

The resolution strongly condemned all attacks directed against civilians and infrastructure, including UN, humanitarian and medical personnel.

It also condemned summary executions and maiming, sexual and gender-based violence, human trafficking and the recruitment and use of children.

The Council demanded all parties to allow and facilitate safe, immediate and unhindered humanitarian access to all people in need, as well as the restoration of basic services such as healthcare, water, electricity and communications.

The Council also reaffirmed full support to the UN mission in the DRC, MONUSCO, and stressed that attacks against peacekeepers may constitute war crimes.

In his explanation of vote, the Pakistan envoy said there was no military solution, only a peaceful settlement through dialogue.

“All parties must prioritize dialogue and diplomacy and recommit to the peace and mediation processes in place, going forward,” Ambassador Asim Ahmad said.

” We cannot afford a failure,” the Pakistani envoy said. “We must not let everything unravel before our eyes.”

Pakistan, he said, believes that the resolution was an important and necessary step towards that objective.

Noting that the resolution reaffirms the Security Council’s strong commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of the DRC, he welcomed the regional efforts and processes, and high-level engagements led by the African Union and other sub-regional organizations to bring peace to the DRC.

“We expect and call on all parties to cooperate and fully comply with the provisions of this resolution and their respective obligations in a genuine and timely manner,” Ambassador Asim Ahmad added.

APP/ift

SU to conduct MPhil, PhD entry test on Feb 23

0
HYDERABAD, Feb 22 (APP):The University of Sindh, Jamshoro has scheduled the pre entrance rest for admissions to MPhil and PhD programs for February 23, 2025, at 9:00 AM sharp.
A total of 838 candidates for both the programs will appear for the test across various disciplines.
The test will be conducted at different institutes and faculties, including Institute of Physics (Physics & Botany MPhil, PhD), Faculty of Engineering & Technology (All disciplines MPhil, PhD), Institute of Commerce & Management (Commerce MPhil, PhD), Business Administration (MPhil) and Pharmacy (all disciplines) and English Linguistics MPhil and PhD, all other disciplines at the Institute of Mathematics & Computer Science (IMCS).
The University of Sindh has made all necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth and transparent testing process. Candidates have been advised to reach their designated test centers on time and bring their original CNIC and admit cards.

Despite diminutive emissions, Pakistan stands out in global climate commitments

0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP):Despite contributing less than one percent of global emissions, Pakistan stands out in global climate commitments as it was actively implementing various mitigation and adaptation measures under the UNFCCC obligations with domestic resources, said Amb Jauhar Saleem, President of the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), in a discussion on ‘Pakistan’s Obligations to UNFCCC and Opportunities.’
Ambassador Saleem highlighted that the success of Pakistan’s ambitious climate initiatives relies on the timely disbursement of the international climate fund, said a press release issued here on Saturday. He expressed concern over the inadequate financial commitments from major economies, which have pledged only a few hundred million dollars to date. He praised Pakistan’s efforts to create the loss and damage fund, underscoring the nation’s commitment to supporting all climate-vulnerable countries.
In his keynote address, Dr. Syed Mahmood Nasir, former Executive Director of the Global Climate-Change Impact Studies Centre (GCISC) and former Inspector General of Forests at the Ministry of Climate Change, offered a detailed historical perspective on climate change. He highlighted how significant climate events, such as the Little Ice Age (1300-1850), transformed global ecosystems. Dr. Nasir traced the rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide from pre-industrial levels of 278 ppm to over 427 ppm today, underscoring the carbon cycle’s crucial role in shaping Earth’s climate.
Dr. Nasir addressed global climate governance by highlighting key obligations under the UNFCCC, such as Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), the Precautionary Principle, the Right to Sustainable Development, and Intergenerational Equity. He echoed Amb Saleem’s assertion that while developed nations bear a greater historical responsibility for emissions, they have fallen short on their financial commitments, with the actual disbursement of the promised $100 billion in climate finance being significantly lacking.
Dr. Nasir was of the view that the elimination of traditional grazing practices has disrupted natural ecosystems. He emphasized the need for sustainable forest management strategies, considering selection of native species, selective clearing and improved fire monitoring. Dr. Nasir also stressed the importance of transitioning to clean energy sources such as hydropower, solar, wind and tidal power. He lamented that most global climate agreements lack consequences for non-compliance, making them difficult to enforce.
The event was well attended by climate experts, government officials, researchers, students, and journalists.

Accused in maid killing case to undergo DNA test

0
RAWALPINDI, Feb 22 (APP):Accused Rashid Shafiq has been handed over to police for his DNA and polygraphy test, while the wife of the accused has been sent to jail on a 14-day remand.
According to the details, the police presented the accused Rashid Shafiq and his wife Sana Rashid, in the court of Civil Judge Imran Qureshi after completing a total of 8-days of remand. The investigation officer informed the court that the investigation was almost complete and the instrument of torture/murder in the form of a pipe had also been recovered, but the accused had to be taken to the forensic lab in Lahore for DNA matching, for which he requested the court for physical remand of 5 more days. The IO further informed the court that the interrogation of the wife of the accused, Sana Shafiq has been completed and she might be sent to jail on a 14-day judicial remand.
After hearing the arguments of the lawyers of the parties, the court has once again handed over Rashid Shafiq to the police on a physical remand of 4 days. The court directed the investigating officer to produce the accused in court again on February 25.
The court, while sending the accused’s wife Sana Shafiq to jail on a 14-day judicial remand, directed that the accused be produced in court again on March 07.
It may be recalled that on February 11, Bani police station had registered a case against the owner of the house Rashid Shafiq, his wife Sana Rashid resident of Asghar Mall, and another maid Rubina, in which it was alleged that they brutally tortured a 12-year-old maid  Iqra.  She was brought to the hospital in a very critical condition and died in the hospital.

Pakistan, UAE DPMs explore avenues to strengthen trade, defense cooperation

0
Foreign Office

ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar held a bilateral meeting with his UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan wherein they engaged in comprehensive discussions to further strengthen the longstanding bilateral fraternal ties.

In the meeting held in Abu Dhabi at the invitation of the UAE deputy prime minister and foreign minister, the two sides explored avenues to enhance bilateral cooperation across key sectors, including trade, investment, energy, defense, and people-to-people connections, a Foreign Office press release said Saturday.

The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest, underscoring the importance of promoting peace, stability, and shared prosperity.

Senator Ishaq Dar congratulated the UAE leadership on the successful organization of the World Governments Summit 2025, in Dubai from February 11-13, 2025, and commended the UAE’s visionary initiatives in fostering global dialogue and cooperation.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its multifaceted partnership with the UAE and highlighted the pivotal role of the Pakistani diaspora in the UAE, describing them as a bridge between the two nations.

Senator Dar also expressed gratitude for the UAE’s consistent support for Pakistan’s economic development and progress.

In response, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan reiterated the UAE’s steadfast commitment to strengthening its strategic relationship with Pakistan.

He acknowledged Pakistan’s significant contributions to regional stability and expressed appreciation for the positive role played by the Pakistani community in the UAE’s development.

The two leaders agreed to maintain a regular high-level engagements and consultations to further solidify bilateral ties and coordinate on regional and international issues of mutual concern.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both dignitaries expressing optimism about the future of Pakistan-UAE relations and their shared vision for a prosperous, peaceful, and stable region.

NAHE’s Faculty Development Programme for IPFP Fellows concludes at Lahore & Peshawar

0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):The National Academy of Higher Education (NAHE) organized the certificate distribution ceremonies of the National Faculty Development Programme (NFDP) for participants under Interim Placement of Fresh PhDs (IPFP) Programme at Lahore and Peshawar.
The NFDP aims to equip fresh PhDs with essential tools and techniques for effective teaching and research, ensuring they are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across Pakistan.
Faculty development is essential for advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in higher education settings. By improving the capabilities and effectiveness of university faculty, institutions can better contribute to multiple SDGs. Faculty development aligns with and supports various SDGs including SDG-4 (Quality Education), SDG-5 (Gender Equality), SDG-8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG-10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG-13 (Climate Action) and SDG-16 (Peace, Justice and strong Institutions).
By investing in faculty development, educational institutions can significantly advance the SDGs, ensuring quality education for all and fostering innovation, and promotes sustainable development across various sectors.
Lahore: Prof. Dr. Syeda Faleeha Zahra Kazmi, Vice Chancellor, University of Home Economics Lahore was chief guest in the certificate distribution ceremony held at Lahore. Dr. Akhtar Sandhu, Principal, Postgraduate Islamia College, Civil Lines, Lahore and Mr. Ghulam Nabi, Director General of HEC Regional Centre, Lahore were also present. The participants shared their memorable experiences and lessons learnt during the programme, reflecting on how the training equipped them thoroughly with skills to meet the challenges of modern academia.
Dr. Syeda Faleeha highlighted the significance of such programmes in fostering professional acumen and capacity building amongst faculty thereby strengthening higher education in Pakistan. She distributed certificates among the participants, acknowledging their dedication and devotion to teaching. At the end, Mr. Ghulam Nabi extended his vote of thanks to all the guests, participants, his team including Assistant Directors Mr. Shoaib Raza and Ms.Yamima Edwin, and NAHE team including Deputy Director Mr. Saleem Qamar for their contributions to the programme’s success.
The NFDP training session featured a series of expert-led workshops, interactive sessions, and hands-on activities aimed at refining teaching methodologies, research capabilities, and leadership skills. The programme underscores NAHE’s unwavering commitment to nurturing academic excellence and fostering a culture of innovation in higher education across Pakistan.
Peshawar: The ceremony was graced by the presence of Prof. Dr. Usman Ghani, Director of IMSciences, as the Chief Guest, along with DG HEC Regional Centre Nasir Shah and Deputy Director Shafi Ur Rehman. Dr. Usman Ghani distributed certificates among the participants, congratulating them on their achievements and encouraging them to continue striving for excellence in their academic and professional careers. Dr. Usman Ghani emphasized the importance of dedication, innovation, and lifelong learning, urging participants to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of higher education in Pakistan.
Mr. Nasir Shah addressed the participants commending the organizers Shafi ur Rehman and Yasir Aftab for their contributions to the programme’s success.
Deputy Director Shafi Ur Rehman expressed his gratitude for the collaborative spirit and commitment demonstrated throughout the programme, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in building capacity and fostering academic excellence.

South Africa win by 107 runs against Afghanistan in Champions Trophy

0
KARACHI, Feb 21 (APP):South Africa on Friday defeated Afghanistan by 107 runs in Champions Trophy at National Bank Stadium Karachi.
South Africa batting first scored 315 runs for 6 wickets in 50 overs. While Afghanistan chasing the target were all out
for 208 in 43.3 overs.

Ben Warrington calls on Governor Saleem Haider

0
LAHORE, Feb 21 (APP):Head of the Lahore Office of the British High Commission Ben Warrington called on Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan and discussed promoting relations in the fields of education, health and trade during a meeting at the Governor’s House here on Friday.
Senior Political Advisor Owais Shah was also present during the meeting.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan said that Pakistan’s textiles, sports products and surgical instruments are of high quality. He said that Pakistan’s economy is improving and industry will be in a much better position in the next few years. The Governor Punjab said that as Chancellor, he has given instructions to start degree programs related to climate change in universities. He said that special attention needs to be paid to health and education facilities in the southern, Pothohari and remote areas of Punjab. The Governor Punjab further said that overseas Pakistanis living in the UK have proven their capabilities in every field.
Head of British High Commission in Lahore Office Ben Warrington said that Britain values its relations with Pakistan very much. He said that he is committed to enhancing bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and the UK in the fields of trade, technology, research, climate change and agriculture.

NA body expresses concern on selection process of Moavineen-e-Hujjaj

0
By Rehan Khan
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):The National Assembly Standing Committee on Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony on Friday expressed its concern regarding the selection process of Moavineen-e-Hujjaj and discussed its drawbacks in detail.
The meeting, held under the Chairmanship of Malik Muhammad Aamir Dogar in the Parliament House, directed the ministry to submit the NTS exam paper, the list of selected Moavineen, and details of the selection process in other Muslim countries at the next committee meeting.
The committee members urged the ministry to closely review the current process and eliminate unnecessary obstacles for Moavineen who wish to serve pilgrims with a religious spirit.
They emphasized the need for the ministry to adopt a more practical selection process from the next year instead of relying on NTS, which imposes a high-test fee and other expenses.
They recommended that the ministry arrange proper training courses for the selected candidates in accordance with Hajj Ta’leemaat.
The committee reviewed the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) of the ministry for the financial year 2025-2026.
Additional Secretary, Dr. Syed Atta-ur-Rehman informed the committee that the ministry’s various wings and all Haji Camps are in the process of preparing proposals for new projects. Once finalized, these proposals will be presented before the committee.
He briefed the committee on ongoing project – the construction of the Hajj Complex in Lahore. He also briefed the committee on the establishment of a recycling plant for sacred papers which is being constructed in accordance with Shariah principles and modern scientific standards, is expected to be completed by June 2025. He informed the committee that the plant is being set up at the Haji Camp in Islamabad, which is the ministry’s own property.
The committee expressed strong interest in the recycling plant for sacred papers and directed the ministry to arrange a visit to the Haji Camp Islamabad, along with a detailed briefing on the plant, in the next meeting.
The chair emphasized the need for similar plants in provincial headquarters and recommended their eventual expansion to the city level.
The committee directed the ministry to develop an alternative plan and explore options for Hajj pilgrims who wish to perform Hajj by road or by sea, and present its plan in the next meeting of the committee.
The committee adopted the report of the sub-committee on ‘The Service Provider Agreement (SPA) 2025’ along with the Hajj Policy 2025. The chairman and members expressed satisfaction with the consensus deliberations of the sub-committee and its implementation in letter and spirit.
The committee deferred the briefing on the interfaith harmony wing for the next meeting of the committee.
The committee unanimously approved minutes of its previous meeting.
The meeting was attended by MNAs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf Zaman, Seema Mohi-ud-Din Jamili, Asiya Naz Tanoli, Muneeba Iqbal, Dr. Nelson Azeem, Pir Fazal Hussain Shah Jillani, Shagufta Jumani, Mussarat Rafique Mahesar, Samina Khalid Ghurki, Muhammad Ijaz-ul-Haq, Muhammad Bashir Khan, Mujahid Ali, Fazal Muhammad Khan, Nasim Ali Shah, and Syed Sami Ullah. The meeting was also attended by secretary and senior officers from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.