ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination has signed an agreement with the National AI Hub at Lahore University of Management Sciences to expand the responsible use of artificial intelligence in Pakistan’s healthcare system.
The partnership will focus on improving maternal, newborn and child health through AI-supported research, data analysis, policy development and healthcare innovation.
Under the memorandum of understanding, the ministry and the LUMS National AI Hub will identify national health priorities, support the development and assessment of AI-enabled tools and promote their ethical integration into public health services.
AI Solutions for Maternal and Child Health
The collaboration will cover joint research, technical cooperation, evidence generation, capacity building and policy engagement.
Officials said the initiative is intended to help strengthen healthcare delivery by using artificial intelligence to improve decision-making, service planning and the identification of health risks affecting mothers, newborns and children.
Federal Health Secretary Muhammad Aslam Ghauri said the partnership could play an important role in improving maternal and child health services through the safe and effective use of AI.
LUMS Provost Dr Tariq Jadoon said the agreement would help convert interdisciplinary research into practical public-health solutions.
He said LUMS would contribute its expertise in artificial intelligence and data science to support more responsive health systems and better outcomes for mothers and children across Pakistan.
Government and Academia to Build AI Capacity
The agreement will also bring together experts from government departments, academic institutions, healthcare organisations, industry and development partners.
The partners plan to support knowledge exchange, stakeholder engagement and the development of policies and implementation frameworks for the responsible use of AI in healthcare.
Representatives at the signing included Director General Population Dr Shabana Saleem, District Health Officer Islamabad Dr Rashida Batool, District Population Welfare Officer Muhammad Ayub and Deputy Director Technical Dr Beenish.
LUMS was represented by Dr Tariq Jadoon and Associate Professor of Computer Science Dr Agha Ali Raza. Gates Foundation consultant Naveed Akbar also attended the event.
The partnership forms part of Pakistan’s broader digital health agenda and is aimed at building a more efficient, resilient and equitable healthcare system.
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