Karachi:May 8, 2026 At a time when health systems around the world
are facing workforce shortages, rising patient needs and growing pressure to deliver
quality care, the Aga Khan University School of Nursing and Midwifery Pakistan
(SONAM, PK), together with the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) Division of
Nursing Services, commemorated International Nurses and Midwives Day 2026 by
highlighting the critical role of nurses and midwives in strengthening health care in
Pakistan.
The event brought together health care leaders, educators, policymakers, students
and nursing and midwifery professionals from across the country to recognize the
expanding contribution of nurses and midwives beyond traditional care roles. Today,
nurses and midwives are increasingly leading in clinical practice, education,
research, policy, health system management and innovation.
Speaking at the event, Dr Salimah R. Walani, Dean, SONAM, PK addressed the
future nurses and Midwives.
“This is a great time to become a nurse or a midwife in Pakistan, and globally.
Nurses and midwives save lives and improve the health of our populations. With a
serious shortage of nurses and midwives globally, the demand for this profession is
rising. Young people who are looking for a great rewarding career should choose
these professions” said Dr Walani.
Khairunnissa Hooda, Chief Nursing Officer, 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. From bedside to boardroom, they shape decisions, drive
innovation, and build resilient health systems. At AKUH, we proudly invest in our
nursing workforce who are the leaders of today and architects of the future of
healthcare,” said Ms Hooda.
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 – Ms Rabab Vadivala, Clinical Nurse, Pediatric Nursing, Aga
Khan University Hospital.