(WHO) visited the Ojha Institute of Chest Disease (OICD), Dow University of Health Sciences

A delegation from the World Health Organization (WHO) visited the Ojha Institute of Chest Disease (OICD), Dow University of Health Sciences, on June 3rd, 2024, to review the institute’s activities during Pre-Designation and its potential to become the first WHO Collaborating Center for TB Research in Pakistan.

The WHO mission, led by Dr. Martin Van Den Boom, EMR Regional Advisor WHO, and Dr. Christain Gunneberg WHO focal point at GTB, HQ, was accompanied by Dr. Khawaja Laeeq Ahmed, WHO NPO Pakistan.

The visit focused on assessing OICD’s efforts in combating tuberculosis in the region. The WHO representatives acknowledged the dedication of the OICD team.

The event was addressed by Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Nazli Hussain, Director OICD & amp; Principle DIMC Prof. Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed, and WHO Regional Advisor Dr. Martin and hosted by Deputy Director Dr. Ghulam Murtaza Soho.

Despite the sunny and scorching heat, the mission visited the TB integrated Site, MDR site and Site of TB ICU. They were particularly impressed by the newly constructed TB Integrated site and well wished the team for the success of the TB ICU.

The event was attended by Officials from the Communicable Diseases Control Sindh, Dr. Saleem Kazmi and Dr. Samreen Qureshi.

This visit signifies a significant step forward for OICD’s ambition to become a WHO Collaborating Center for TB Research.