KMU Organize Seminar on "She Leads in STEAM, Women and Science"

Khyber Medical University (KMU) Peshawar, in collaboration with Dosti Welfare Organization and the Pakistan Chapter of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), held a seminar titled “The Role of Women in Science.” Themed "She Leads in STEAM, Women and Science" the event focused on exploring the contributions, challenges, and future opportunities for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Speakers highlighted that women are achieving remarkable milestones in fields ranging from medicine to technology and engineering, showcasing their crucial role in the nation's progress.

The event’s chief guest, Prof. Dr. Rubina Nazli, Pro Vice Chancellor and Dean of Basic Medical Sciences at KMU, spoke on the pivotal roles women hold in science and technology. She noted that women possess the potential to reach groundbreaking achievements, even reaching as far as the moon. Prof. Dr. Nazli added that with 60% of KMU’s student body being female, the university actively supports and fosters women’s education and their significant contributions to STEAM fields.

Mizan Ur Rehman, CEO of P21 STEM, discussed the evolution of STEMP education, which originated in the 1970s, and its continued adaptation across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. He highlighted that while science and mathematics emphasize foundational learning, technology and engineering require hands-on, practical skills. He urged aligning educational systems with the P21 STEM model to better equip students for addressing global challenges, particularly in the healthcare sector.

The seminar included a panel discussion featuring influential speakers from various fields who shared their insights on women’s contributions in diverse sectors. Panelists included social activist Masarrat Misbah, environmental specialist Prof. Dr. Saima Hashim, ORIC Director at Gandhara University Prof. Dr. Sofia Kabir, Shaheed Benazir Women University ORIC Director Dr. Nargis Jamila, Educationist Prof. Shagufta Javed, Engineer Abdul Mohiz, KMU Director of Academics Prof. Dr. Zilli Huma, Dr. Raeesa Bano (Registrar of Women University Swabi), and Engineer Misbah Waheed (Peshawar’s Additional Assistant Commissioner). Each panelist commended the unique skills and invaluable contributions of women across professional landscapes.

In her closing remarks, Prof. Dr. Saima Saleem, Secretary of the OWSD Pakistan National Chapter, underscored the importance of women's involvement in STEAM, affirming that Pakistan offers equal opportunities for women to leverage their skills in national development. The seminar concluded with a call to expand support and pathways for women in STEAM, helping them balance their professional and personal roles effectively.

The event also featured several stalls showcasing posters, paintings, and models illustrating women’s achievements in STEAM fields. Concluding the seminar, Dr. Hafsa Muhammad, Head of the KMU Department of Forensic Sciences and Toxicology and Chief Organizer of the seminar, expressed her gratitude to the panelists, guest speakers, and all attendees.