Punjab Assembly (PA) Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan on Friday called upon young medical students to pursue research, innovation and critical thinking to address emerging global health challenges.
PA Speaker urges medical students to embrace research, innovation
LAHORE, Aug 28 (APP): Punjab Assembly (PA) Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan on Friday called upon young medical students to pursue research, innovation and critical thinking to address emerging global health challenges.
He said this while addressing the inaugural session of the 3rd International ‘StuCON 2026’ at a private medical college.
The conference, titled “From Global Health Challenges to Local Action: What Can a Medical Student Do?”, was attended by students from more than 40 institutions.
The speaker stressed that medical education should extend beyond academic qualifications to encompass public health, community service and social responsibility.
Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan said, “The medical field is without borders, as scientific discoveries and medical advances anywhere in the world can benefit humanity as a whole.”
He encouraged students to remain curious, question existing knowledge and develop the ability to respond to emerging diseases and complex healthcare challenges through research, observation and sound judgment.
Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, the speaker said the crisis had demonstrated the vital importance of scientific research, medical expertise and evidence-based decision-making.
He emphasized that healthcare professionals were not only responsible for treating patients but could also play a broader role in guiding society during public health emergencies.
The speaker stressed that leadership was not confined to public office or institutional authority. “Leadership is also demonstrated through character, knowledge and action,” he said, urging students to set ambitious goals and use their talents for the advancement of society and humanity.
He stressed that while merit and healthy competition were essential, the state and society must also ensure equitable opportunities for talented young people.
The speaker emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in modern healthcare, noting that effective patient care required coordinated efforts by doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals.
Speaking about artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, he said these tools were opening new avenues in medical diagnosis, research and treatment, but must be used responsibly and ethically, with full respect for patient dignity.
The speaker also highlighted the importance of research and evidence in legislation and public policy, stating that sound decisions must be based on credible evidence, reliable research and facts.
Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan appreciated the organizers of International StuCON 2026 and congratulated Professor Rashid Latif Khan, Patron-in-Chief; Professor Tahir Masood Ahmed, Principal; faculty members; and participating students for promoting academic and research-oriented activities.
Students from the departments of medicine, nursing, pharmacy, DPT, allied health and public health participated in the conference, which featured research papers, poster presentations and other academic activities.
