The Department of Physiology of the University of Karachi and Dr Essa Laboratory and Diagnostic Centre have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance skill development, arrange internships, and create job opportunities for students. The MoU signing ceremony took place at the KU Vice Chancellor Secretariat on Wednesday.
Key Signatories and Terms
KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi and Chief Executive Officer of Dr Essa Lab Professor Dr Farhan Essa inked the MoU documents. As part of the agreement, Essa Lab experts will be placed on the departmental advisory board of KU's physiology department. KU students and faculty members will gain access to analytical facilities and receive special discounts at Essa Labs across the city.
Collaborative Initiatives
The two institutions also agreed to organize joint research projects, conferences, and seminars to raise awareness about health issues and safety. The MoU aims to promote preventive healthcare practices in the metropolis. Dr Farhan Essa stated that under this MoU, both parties intend to collaborate in research, development, education, training, and the long-term, non-commercial dissemination of knowledge.
He emphasized the importance of university–industry partnerships in promoting knowledge transfer and information sharing, particularly in fields of mutual interest. He shared that the collaboration is expected to foster new networks, stimulate interactions, enhance problem-solving capacity, and encourage the adoption of innovative methodologies and technologies for mutual benefit.
University's Perspective
KU VC Professor Dr Khalid Iraqi emphasized that this MoU marks a significant step in strengthening industry–academia linkages. He noted that such collaborations not only enhance research, training, and knowledge transfer but also create valuable opportunities for students to gain practical exposure and develop skills aligned with market needs. He mentioned that by fostering partnerships with industry, the university can expand its problem-solving capacity, adopt innovative methodologies, and introduce new technologies on campus. He believes that this synergy benefits students through enriched learning experiences while simultaneously advancing the institution's role as a hub of innovation and knowledge dissemination.
Attendees
The ceremony was attended by KU's Director Evening Professor Dr Shabib Ul Hassan, Dean of Faculty of Management and Administrative Sciences Professor Dr Zaeema Asrar Mohiuddin, faculty members of the Department of Physiology, Senior Medical Officer Dr Wafa Altaf, Director ORIC Dr Syeda Hoor Ul Ain, and the ORIC team. From Dr Essa Lab, Cluster Manager Tanweer Quadri and Corporate Representative Namrah Imriaz were also present.
