BUHSCK International Conference 2026 Focuses on Innovation in Mental Health
The conference focused on the theme “Innovation in Mental Health: From Technology to Community Empowerment.” It brought together international experts, researchers and healthcare professionals to discuss accessible and scalable solutions for mental health challenges.
BUHSCK International Conference 2026 highlights innovation in mental health and community empowerment
KARACHI: Bahria University Health Sciences Campus Karachi (BUHSCK) organized the 8th BUHSCK International Conference 2026 on September 29 at the Ibn-e-Sina Auditorium.
The conference focused on the theme “Innovation in Mental Health: From Technology to Community Empowerment.” It brought together international experts, researchers and healthcare professionals to discuss accessible and scalable solutions for mental health challenges.
The programme began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by Durood-e-Ibrahimi.
In his opening remarks, Director General BUHSCK Vice Admiral (R) Athar Mukhtar HI (M) highlighted the need to connect advanced digital healthcare with community-based initiatives.
Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Syed Irfan Hyder, Vice Chancellor of Salim Habib University, commended BUHSCK for organizing the conference. He said technologies such as artificial intelligence and tele-mental health can expand access to healthcare.
However, he stressed that technology must operate alongside ethics and compassion, particularly when serving communities in remote areas.
Focus on Mental Health of Medical Professionals
Prof. Dr. Iqbal Afridi delivered the keynote address titled “Health and Wellbeing of Medical Students and Academia: A Compelling Need.”
His presentation highlighted the importance of protecting the mental health and wellbeing of medical students, healthcare trainees and educators.
The conference also featured scientific paper presentations, expert talks, pre-conference workshops, a poster competition and panel discussions.
Several national and international experts participated in the scientific sessions. They included Prof. Dr. Raza Rahman, Dean of Hamdard University; Prof. Dr. Yasir Abbasi, Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director at Ardens Medical Center, Dubai; and Dr. Naeem Al-Aswad, Chief Medical Officer at Vital Signs & Vital Skills, Texas.
Other speakers included Prof. Washdev Amar, Head of the Department of Psychiatry at Dow University of Health Sciences, and Dr. Anil Bhagwani, Postdoctoral Fellow at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York.
Experts Call for Innovation and Community Engagement
Rector Bahria University Vice Admiral Abid Hameed HI (M) appreciated the speakers, guests, researchers, faculty members and participants for their contributions.
He emphasized the need to combine innovation, ethical healthcare practices and community engagement to achieve meaningful progress in mental health.
He expressed confidence that the conference would help strengthen mental health awareness, education and services in Pakistan.
At the conclusion of the conference, Vice Admiral Abid Hameed HI (M) and Vice Admiral (R) Athar Mukhtar HI (M) presented a souvenir to Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Syed Irfan Hyder.
The conference provided a platform for experts and healthcare professionals to exchange ideas on technology, mental health and community empowerment.
