First convocation of College of Nursing, Civil Hospital Karachi marks milestone for Pakistan’s healthcare workforce
KARACHI: The first convocation of the College of Nursing at Dr. K. M. Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi marked a historic moment for nursing education in Pakistan as 39 graduates were awarded Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degrees, reinforcing the profession’s growing national and global importance.
Addressing the ceremony, speakers highlighted the widening global shortage of nurses, revealing that the world currently needs around 2.5 million nurses, while Pakistan alone faces a shortfall of nearly 900,000. They emphasized that nursing stands apart as a profession with strong and consistent international demand, offering structured career pathways at home and abroad.
The chief guest, Adviser to the Governor of Sindh and Federal Secretary Syed Tariq Mustafa, described the occasion as a proud and emotional milestone for graduates and their families. He underlined that nursing is among the most respected professions for serving humanity and encouraged students to continue their education beyond graduation through specialization and higher degrees.
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Registrar of Dow University of Health Sciences Dr. Ashar Afaq administered the oath to students of the four-year BSN program, who pledged commitment to professional ethics, patient care, and public service.
Director Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council Muhammad Ali told participants that the nursing sector offers vast professional opportunities, adding that international institutions are increasingly willing to recruit Pakistani nurses even before completion of their degrees. He noted that strengthening nursing education is essential for improving healthcare delivery and addressing workforce gaps.
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The ceremony was also addressed by Deputy Secretary Health Sindh Zohaib Ahmed Sheikh, Dr. Sabir Memon, Dr. Akram Sultan, and Principal of the College Dr. Khair-un-Nisa, who highlighted the role of modern nursing education in strengthening Pakistan’s health system and meeting international standards.
At the conclusion of the event, degrees were formally conferred upon graduates. Sadaf Wazir secured first position, Sana Saif achieved second position, while the third position was jointly secured by Samra Khalid, Uzma, Iqra Noor, and Aliza Michael, who were awarded honorary shields for academic excellence.
The first convocation of the College of Nursing at Civil Hospital Karachi reflects a broader national push to expand skilled healthcare human resources. With global demand for nurses rising steadily, stakeholders stressed that investment in nursing education is not only vital for Pakistan’s hospitals but also positions the country as a key contributor to the international healthcare workforce.
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