LAHORE — Riphah International University has launched its seven-day Innovation & Wellness Fest 2026 at its Gulberg campus, bringing together students, academics, industry leaders and community organisations to strengthen academia–industry collaboration and expand access to public health services.

The event, which began on January 22, aims to translate classroom learning into practical outcomes while promoting youth entrepreneurship and community well-being. University officials said the festival is designed to connect education, healthcare and industry in ways that generate measurable social impact.

The festival is being organised under the leadership of Muhammad Umer Farooq, Regional Director of Riphah International University Lahore. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Ali Asghar, Director General of the National Commission for Human Development, and Hassan Muhammad Khan, Chancellor of Riphah International University.

Speaking at the launch, university representatives said the initiative reflects Riphah’s focus on linking education with real-world challenges and positioning universities as active contributors to national development. They said the festival underscores the institution’s emphasis on ethical leadership, social responsibility and community engagement.

A major component of the event is its public welfare outreach. Free medical camps, diagnostic services, nutritional counselling and physical therapy assessments are being offered in collaboration with Chughtai Lab, Alkhidmat Foundation and the Alkhidmat Mobile Dispensary, with the aim of extending healthcare access beyond the campus to surrounding communities.

The week-long programme includes Sports Week activities, Cultural Day, intervarsity competitions, a startup bazaar, a job fair, a CEOs’ dinner, alumni and industry roundtables, and public awareness seminars. Dedicated activities have been arranged for both male and female students, alongside a children’s learning zone and student exhibitions featuring food products, handicrafts, jewellery and other entrepreneurial initiatives.

The festival also marks the inauguration of Work Village, a new business and innovation unit intended to support startups, freelancers and student entrepreneurs by providing a structured platform for collaboration and growth.

Organisers said the event has drawn participation from prominent educators, healthcare professionals and media figures, including Javed Akram, Qasim Ali Shah, Sarah Chaudhry, Nighat Hashmi, Mugheera Luqman and Fareeha Zeeshan. Sessions scheduled for January 22 feature addresses by senior government officials, industry leaders and development sector representatives.

University officials said the Innovation & Wellness Fest reinforces Riphah International University’s commitment to industry-relevant education, sustainable healthcare initiatives and inclusive societal development.