Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Mr. Mustafa Kamal, chaired an important meeting to review progress on Pakistan's local vaccine production initiative and reforms aimed at modernizing the Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council (PNMC).
The meeting was attended by the Federal Secretary for Health, the CEO Health, the CEO of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), and representatives of the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
During the meeting, ADB representatives briefed participants on the progress of the Vaccine Development Project, including ongoing efforts to strengthen local vaccine manufacturing capacity in Pakistan. They also presented updates on the digitization and institutional reform of the Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council.
Speaking on the occasion, Federal Minister Mustafa Kamal directed that work on the country's local vaccine production project be accelerated to enable Pakistan to move swiftly towards self-reliance in vaccine manufacturing. He emphasized that all regulatory, legal, and technical requirements should be completed in a timely manner to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative.
The Minister reiterated that strengthening indigenous vaccine production is a strategic national priority that will enhance Pakistan's health security and ensure a sustainable supply of life-saving vaccines.
Highlighting the importance of nursing sector reforms, Mr. Mustafa Kamal stated that comprehensive reforms are essential to strengthen Pakistan's healthcare system. He directed that the Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council be fully digitized and modernized in accordance with international standards to improve governance, transparency, and service delivery.
The Minister further emphasized the need to take concrete measures to address the country's growing demand for a skilled nursing and midwifery workforce by strengthening education, regulation, and professional development within the sector.
Representatives of the Asian Development Bank reaffirmed their commitment to continuing close collaboration with the Government of Pakistan. They expressed ADB's continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening Pakistan's health sector and improving healthcare systems across the country.
Federal Minister Mustafa Kamal appreciated the Asian Development Bank's longstanding partnership and valuable support, acknowledging its important contribution to advancing health sector reforms and improving healthcare outcomes in Pakistan.
