In an impressive public-private partnership, the National Skills University Islamabad initiated collaboration with Novo Nordisk Pakistan to launch the ‘FIT FOR HEALTH’ initiative, raising awareness about the increasing prevalence of diabetes and obesity among the youth. The launch event occurred during an inaugural workshop at the National Skills University, which focused on promoting healthy and active lifestyles in educational institutions and communities.
The workshop, titled “Empowering Educators on Raising Awareness among Youth on Diabetes and Obesity,” was attended by university teachers from both public and private sector universities in Islamabad. Speakers, including university leadership, doctors, nutritionists, and other key stakeholders, emphasized the critical role of educators in raising awareness about obesity and diabetes as the only way to curb its higher prevalence. Notable speakers included Dr. Nosheen Abbas, Consultant Nutritionist, and Dr. Ali Arif, Consultant Diabetologist, who discussed the importance of good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. They provided beneficial information for juvenile and elderly individuals to change lifestyles for healthy living.
The event attracted forty faculty members from twelve renowned universities in Islamabad, including Quaid-e-Azam University, Air University, NUST, NUML, Mohiuddin University, IIUI, ISRA University, Shifa College of Medicine and Nursing, Rawalpindi Medical University, SUIT, and Kohsar University Murree.
Professor Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, Vice Chancellor of National Skills University Islamabad, highlighted the significance of public-private partnerships in addressing the rising burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and obesity. He pointed out that over 50% of Pakistan’s population is youth, making it imperative to invest in their health and well-being to secure a better future. He stressed that schools, colleges, and universities are pivotal in educating the youth about the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
Hasnain Ahmad, Director of Market Access and Public Affairs at Novo Nordisk Pakistan, commended the National Skills University Islamabad for its enthusiastic support and commitment to preventive measures for diabetes and obesity. He emphasized that this partnership could facilitate awareness seminars, workshops, and capacity-building programs for teachers in educational institutions. He also underscored the need for robust collaboration between school associations, education departments, UN organizations, and others.
Professor Dr. Muhammad Arif Nadeem, Chairperson of the MLT Department at National Skills University Islamabad, emphasized the urgent need for collective efforts from policymakers, corporations, and academia to tackle the growing burden of diabetes and obesity in Pakistan.
