National Research and Innovation Conference (NIRC) 2025

The National Research and Innovation Conference (NIRC) 2025 witnessed an exceptional session at the historic and prestigious King Edward Medical University, Lahore, bringing together over 1,500 medical students from the top 50 medical universities and colleges across Pakistan. The primary objective of this groundbreaking event was to provide undergraduate medical students with a dynamic platform to promote research excellence, encourage academic collaboration, and showcase revolutionary advancements in healthcare. A key highlight was the integration of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare, along with a national pitch competition focused on innovative research ideas.

The pioneer event was held under the patronage of Vice-Chancellor of King Edward Medical University, Prof. Mahmood Ayyaz, while the Provincial Minister for Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education, Khawaja Salman Rafique, and the President of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan, Prof. Khalid Masud Gondal, graced the occasion as Guests of Honour.

Hosted by King Edward Medical University, NIRC 2025 featured renowned international speakers including Prof. Danish Saleheen, Director of Global Genomics at Columbia University; acclaimed defence analyst from ISPR, Mr. Ahmed Al-Arbi; and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Moin, Pro Vice-Chancellor of KEMU.

The event was further enriched by the presence of eminent personalities from KEMU and various medical institutions such as Prof. Syed Asghar Naqi (Registrar, KEMU), Prof. Dr. Abrar Ashraf Ali, Associat Prof. Faiza Abrar, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Imran, Prof. Haroon Hamid (CEO, Mayo Hospital), Prof. Dr. Faiza Bashir, Prof. Dr. Meher-un-Nisa, Prof. Dr. Nadia Khurshid, Prof. Waris Farooqa, Prof. Farooq Afzal, Prof. Dr. Muneed Ashraf, Prof. Dr. Riasat Ali, and Prof. Dr. Shakeel Ahmed, along with heads of departments, HODs, and faculty members from leading medical institutions.

Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique expressed his pleasure at attending an insightful medical conference, stating that such events reflect the Punjab Government’s commitment to innovation, research, and technology in healthcare.

“We are living in an age of artificial intelligence and medical science,” he noted, adding that the improvement of the healthcare sector is the government’s top priority under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.

He highlighted several key initiatives launched by the Punjab Government as part of its commitment to improving healthcare, including the Chief Minister’s Children Heart Surgery Program, Dialysis and Transplant Initiatives, Clinic on Wheels, and Field Hospitals.

He also acknowledged the government’s significant efforts in stroke management, hospital modernization, and the establishment of state-of-the-art medical institutions such as the Nawaz Sharif Institutes of Cardiology in Lahore and Sargodha, and the Institute of Cancer Treatment & Research.

The Minister shared that artificial intelligence education, health data management courses, and advanced research labs are being introduced in medical colleges to modernize medical education. He emphasized that Punjab aims to become a center of healthcare innovation through the development of smart hospitals, telemedicine services, and evidence-based clinical practices, while also promoting medical research fellowships across the province to strengthen a culture of research and innovation.

Prof. Dr. Khalid Masud Gondal, President of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP), and vice chancellor of Fatima Jinnah Medical University delivered a keynote address on the topic of “Navigation Options for Advancing a Career in Medical Research: Pakistan vs. Abroad,” Prof Khalid Masud Gondal emphasized the importance of strategic career planning for young medical professionals. He highlighted both local and international opportunities, stressing that graduates from Punjab’s medical institutions are making Pakistan proud globally.

Prof. Khalid Masud Gondal stating that the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) is providing comprehensive facilities for education, research, and innovation in the field of medicine at both national and international levels. He further added that CPSP trainees are making the country proud by representing Pakistan with excellence across the globe

He congratulated Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ayyaz and the KEMU team for organizing a timely and impactful conference that encourages research and academic collaboration among medical students nationwide.

Vice Chancellor of King Edward Medical University (KEMU) and renowned laparoscopic and robotic surgeon, Prof. Mahmood Ayyaz, addressed a medical conference, highlighting the evolutionary journey of humankind and the rapid advancements in surgical sciences. He emphasized the transformative role of robotic surgery and artificial intelligence in modernizing healthcare and shared his efforts in promoting robotic surgery in Pakistan, including the training of specialized teams of gynecologists and urologists.

Prof. Ayyaz also stressed the importance of structured medical education, discussing the concept of “How to Train the Trainees – The Tale of Two Trainees.” He urged medical students to embrace innovation, discipline, and continuous learning, while underlining the need to empower future healthcare professionals through focused training and exposure to advanced technologies.

Prominent national and international defence expert Ahmed Al-Arbi addressed a distinguished audience on the critical subjects of international relations, geopolitics, and information warfare. He emphasized the shifting global power dynamics and the strategic importance of mastering modern tools of influence and defense in today’s interconnected world.

In his remarks, Mr. Al-Arbi analyzed the recent conflict developments between Pakistan and India, drawing attention to the increasing relevance of electronic warfare. He highlighted the advanced combat capabilities of the Pakistan Armed Forces, noting their growing strength in deploying modern military technologies. His address underscored the need for continuous innovation and strategic readiness in safeguarding national security.

Renowned academic and researcher Director Global Genome University of Columbia Prof. Danish Saleheen addressed medical students at King Edward Medical University (KEMU), sharing insights on the transformative potential of genomic sequencing, big data, and artificial intelligence in the future of healthcare.

During his talk, Prof. Saleheen spoke about the recently established biobank at KEMU and plans for a state-of-the-art genomic sequencing center in the near future. He emphasized the transformative power of genome sequencing in advancing personalized medicine, medical research, and disease prevention. His address encouraged students to embrace cutting-edge technologies and play an active role in shaping the future of healthcare through innovation and data-driven practices.

Prof. Dr. Muhammad Moin, Pro-Vice Chancellor of KEMU, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks at the conclusion of the recent medical conference. He expressed his sincere gratitude to the honorable chief guests, national and international speakers, esteemed faculty members, and all sponsors who contributed to the success of the event.

Prof. Dr. Moin gave special recognition to key sponsors including Nutrifactor Laboratories, Qurshi, Dawan Bread, Cheezious Food, and Chughtai Lab for their invaluable support. He acknowledged that their contributions played a crucial role in the seamless organization and overall success of the conference.

At the conclusion of the event, tokens of appreciation were presented to national and international speakers, Honourable Health Ministers, adjudicators, sponsors, organizing teams, and the distinguished faculty of KEMU. Additionally, cash prizes and shields were awarded to the winners and runners-up, recognizing their outstanding achievements and contributions.

Under the visionary leadership of Convener Prof. Dr. M. Moin and the relentless drive of Chief Organizer Warda Rasool (Final Year MBBS), NRIC’25 became the student largest gathering in KEMU history. This historic success was powered by an exceptional team: Fateh Alam (website development & branding for NRIC’25), Ghadia Waheed and Ahmad Rasheed (media & sponsorships), Muneeb ur Rehman and Haram Aftab (joint secretaries – teams & resources), Fahad Amin (logistics & registrations), M. Akif (ambassador management), and every passionate committee member who gave their all. Together, they didn’t just organize an event they sparked a movement that will echo for years to come.

The National Research and Innovation Conference (NIRC) 2025, hosted by King Edward Medical University, stands as a testament to Pakistan’s dedication to advancing medical education, research, and innovation, preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals to meet future challenges with knowledge, skill, and vision.