The Aga Khan University School of Nursing and Midwifery Pakistan (SONAM, PK), in collaboration with the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) Division of Nursing Services, commemorated International Nurses and Midwives Day 2026 by emphasizing the vital role of nurses and midwives in strengthening healthcare in Pakistan. The event brought together healthcare leaders, educators, policymakers, students, and nursing and midwifery professionals from across the country to recognize the expanding contributions of nurses and midwives beyond traditional care roles.
Keynote Addresses
Speaking at the event, Dr. Salimah R. Walani, Dean of SONAM, PK, addressed the future nurses and midwives, stating, "This is a great time to become a nurse or a midwife in Pakistan, and globally." Khairunnissa Hooda, Chief Nursing Officer at AKUH, highlighted the critical role of leadership and professional excellence in healthcare settings. "International Nurses and Midwives Day reminds us that nurses and midwives lead healthcare transformation," she said.
Award Ceremony
A key highlight of the celebration was the presentation of awards recognizing outstanding individuals who have demonstrated exceptional merit, leadership, and impact in nursing and midwifery. The award recipients were:
- The Aga Khan University (Pakistan) Early Career Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Award – Rabab Vadivala, Clinical Nurse, Pediatric Nursing, Aga Khan University Hospital.
- The Aga Khan University (Pakistan) Distinguished Nursing Award – Alia Nasir, Principal and Associate Professor, Rufayda Hamdard College of Nursing (RHCN).
- The Aga Khan University (Pakistan) Excellence in Midwifery Practice Award – Dr. Arusa Lakhani, Associate Professor and Director Graduate Education, Aga Khan University School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan.
Additional Activities
The event also featured an interactive online quiz competition and a leadership roundtable discussion on the future of nursing and midwifery in Pakistan. The celebration reaffirmed the shared commitment of SONAM, PK, and AKUH to advancing nursing and midwifery through education, research, clinical excellence, and service, while inspiring the next generation of healthcare leaders.
