ISLAMABAD — Health Services Academy (HSA) and Promoting National Cohesion (PNC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in key public health areas across Pakistan.
The MoU was signed at HSA Islamabad by Vice Chancellor Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan and Chief Executive Officer Misha Mazhar.
Under the agreement, both institutions agreed on a broad framework of activities aimed at strengthening health systems, expanding capacity building of health workers, and improving access to public health services.
Focus areas of collaboration
The partnership covers a range of initiatives, including Life Skills-Based Education (LSBE) for health, reproductive health services, eye healthcare, immunization programs, early childhood development (ECD), and community health interventions.
A major component of the collaboration includes Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC), social mobilization, and community engagement strategies to improve health outcomes.
Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan said the partnership would help expand access to public health infrastructure through innovative communication approaches and community mobilization efforts.
Ms. Misha Mazhar stated that PNC’s nationwide network, including its V4C youth network, would support implementation of health projects by engaging trained and motivated young volunteers.
Capacity building and funding initiatives
The agreement includes joint development of project proposals for national and international donors, sharing of technical expertise and research insights, and coordinated implementation of health initiatives.
HSA will provide technical guidance, facilitate capacity building of community health workers, and support documentation and regulatory processes. The academy will also assist in establishing social franchising models and conducting CHW trainings.
PNC, in turn, will implement health programs in coordination with HSA, share progress reports, and ensure compliance with legal and donor requirements. The organization will also promote life skills-based education to empower youth with knowledge related to physical, sexual, and reproductive health.
Stakeholder participation
The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from government institutions, national and international development partners, health experts, members of the PNC Board of Directors, and media representatives.
HSA operates as a premier research and teaching institute under the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, while PNC is a women-led non-profit organization focused on promoting social cohesion and inclusive development.
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