Seminar highlights shortage of diabetes specialists in Pakistan

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Pakistan has too few diabetes specialists to treat the nearly 19.4 million people suffering from the disease according to the experts who spoke at a seminar at the Aga Khan University (AKU) held to announce the launch of a six-month certificate course in diabetes that seeks to expand access to the knowledge and skills needed to treat and manage the disease. The course, set to begin from January 2021, will offer the most updated and evidence-based knowledge to manage patients.

The country has only one specialist, also known as an endocrinologist, for every 200,000 diabetes patients, according to Pakistan Endocrine Society. Similar shortfalls in training and awareness of diabetes are present at all levels of our healthcare system, speakers added. 

The current deficits in managing the illness, which has no symptoms, mean that many patients often seek care when they are suffering from advanced complications from the disease. 

The new course is part of collaboration between the University, the British Medical Journal and Royal College of Physicians, London, to help doctors across Pakistan improve their theoretical and practical knowledge of the disease. 

It will include modules covering managing diabetes, its complications, lifestyle and obesity management, inpatient diabetes control and how to handle comorbidities in diabetes. The course is open to all registered healthcare professionals who hold an MBBS degree. 

Diabetes not only reduces the quality of life of patients but also puts them at risk of a range of complications such as heart attack, stroke, kidney problems, nerve damage, serious eye problems and even disability. 

A total of 60 percent of non-traumatic lower limb amputations in Pakistan occurred in patients with diabetes. 

“To reduce the burden of complications of diabetes, physicians have to be well-equipped with the knowledge to confidently diagnose the disease and refer for tertiary care in the case of a complication or inability to achieve good control of diabetes,” Professor Najmul Islam, chair, section of endocrinology, department of medicine at AKU, and course director of the diabetes certificate course, remarked. 

The experts at the seminar shared that Pakistan’s healthcare professionals often lack the expertise to manage the disease adding that short courses can bridge the gap and equip clinicians to manage the high burden of diabetes in the country. 

The model of improving knowledge through educational courses for controlling and treating diabetes has proven to be effective worldwide. The studies in United Kingdom have shown that diabetes education in healthcare professionals can help in reducing the amputation rate, a condition that can develop in both type 1 and type 2 patients.

Pak movie widely praised in China

 By Masood Sattar Khan

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Pakistani movie ‘Parwaaz Hai Junoon’ has been premiered successfully in China, having earned praise from the Chinese movie lovers.

It’s for first time in the 45 years when a Pakistani film has been screened on Chinese cinema houses. 

The film had attracted a lot of attention in China even before its premiere as leading institutions like Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University and Southwest University participated in its promotion. 

According to reports, as many as 57 universities launched online campaigns to advertise the film. In addition, a large number of celebrities spontaneously promoted the film as the Chinese netizens expressed their delight at having watched the movie. 

A delegation of Chinese journalists visited the Capital Cinema, SDDYY, the largest cinema in China with a history of 70 years. 

The head of marketing for SDDYY introduced that Parwaaz Hai Junoon was a military film which succeeded in having aroused a heated discussion among Chinese viewers. 

“Compared to commercial films, this movie may not have as many gimmicks. However, it has profound significance and holds a very important place in the hearts of Chinese audience. In order to support the film industry of Pakistan and pay tribute to Pakistan-China friendship, we increased the layout rate of Parwaaz Hai Junoon,” he added.

“I had been looking forward to this film and it didn't disappoint me. It proves the capabilities of the Pakistani film industry and gives the Chinese viewers a wide exposure to the Pakistani culture. The introduction of this film before the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan is of great significance to the friendship between the two countries,” an a film lover remarked after watching Parwaaz Hai Junoon. 

Francaise Film, a famous film critic, evaluated that the quality and industrialization of the film was amazing, the portrayal of the characters was vivid and easier to resonate with the audience.

Pakistan committed for CPEC projects’ timely completion

 By Masood Sattar Khan

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Prime Minister Imran Khan has declared that the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was a transformational project and reiterated Pakistan’s strong commitment for timely completion of the CPEC projects. 

The Prime Minister expressed these views when he met the newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Nong Rong, at Islamabad on November 11.

“The Prime Minister congratulated the Ambassador on his appointment and extended best wishes for a fruitful term,” the statement issued by PM Office noted. 

The premier also accentuated the significance of special economic zones (SEZs), relocation of industry, and improved productivity in agriculture sector. 

The Chinese envoy on the occasion expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Imran Khan and reassured China’s support in completion of CPEC projects and enhancement in industrialization and agricultural sector in Pakistan.

China to import Pakistani cherries next year

 By Masood Sattar Khan

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The first consignment of Pakistani cherries is expected to arrive in China next year, Li Wei, business representative of Huazhilong International Trading Private Ltd. Pakistan, disclosed. 

The Pakistani cherries are really good, nice sweetness and quality, Wei said in an interview with the China Economic Net television (CEN) in Beijing. 

He was speaking at the third China International Import Expo (CIIE) being held in Shanghai. 

In the past the Pakistani cherries could not be imported due to lack of cold chain management, market information system, packaging and processing facilities. 

In this regard, Li Wei added that China can provide technical assistance to manage orchards, while Pakistan can provide work force so that both sides can achieve win-win cooperation. China, he disclosed, was willing to help Pakistan develop cold chain technology. 

Li Wei reckoned that there was big business opportunity for the export of agricultural products from Pakistan to China.

Partnership among physicians, nurses crucial to introduce Advanced Practice Nursing

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Introducing advanced practice nursing, particularly in countries with fragile healthcare systems, will be crucial to meeting the ever-increasing needs of patients and improving health outcomes said experts at a two-day virtual conference organized by the Aga Khan University Schools of Nursing and Midwifery in Pakistan and East Africa. 

The current COVID-19 pandemic has placed nurses in the spotlight and revealed the need for nursing expertise and experience as never before. In 2020, the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife, governments and healthcare institutions are being called on to support, empower and advance the nursing profession. 

Advanced practice nursing, APN, is one of the most efficient ways of delivering high-quality, affordable and patient-focused care, accessible especially to those vulnerable groups and populations living in the remotest communities where other healthcare professionals may not reach. 

However, developing policies and strategies to support the transition process in order to integrate the APN model into the fabric of healthcare systems in Pakistan, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda might be challenging and it will require collaborative efforts. 

Dr Rozina Karmaliani and Dr Eunice Ndirangu, Deans of the Schools in Pakistan and East Africa respectively, talked about the support required from the nursing regulatory bodies and government legislatures to build, develop and sustain the role of APNs.

“The government is working on important regulatory reforms for nursing. An important initiative that we will be taking is to improve the quality of nursing education at the graduate level that will consequently lead to better trained nurses from whom APNs will be developed in the future,” Dr Faisal Sultan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination, remarked. 

He also highlighted the importance of a multidisciplinary partnership and collaboration amongst healthcare professionals, especially between physicians and nurses, to take this model forward. 

Afshan Nazly, President of the Pakistan Nursing Council, also present at the session, reinforced the need for cooperation and noted that embracing the APN model will be far easier if nurses and physicians work as allies, and if concentrated efforts are made to enhance the capacity and competency of nurses.

“The current Pakistan Nursing Council Act needs amendment and it should include the advanced practice nurses to make this model viable in the country,” she added. 

Global nursing leaders and APN experts from the United States, Canada and Kenya shared their experiences of pioneering this role in their respective regions and in the developing world, and the associated challenges and measures to mitigate issues. 

Chief Guest, Dr Afaf Meleis, Professor of Nursing and Sociology and Dean Emerita, University of Pennsylvania drew on her considerable years of nursing.

“From my own experience in leading APN programmes and witnessing APNs in action in different parts of the world, I want to offer you three principles vital in planning and effective utilization of APNs in healthcare: Integration of a collaborative healthcare model, of evidence-based training for APNs, of clarity of role and competencies for smooth functioning; the potential of Innovation and problem-solving skills in advanced nursing practice and Influence and impact that APNs can create in health outcomes.” Dr Maria W. O’Rourke, Clinical Professor of Nursing at the University of California San Francisco, the keynote speaker identified and shared an APN implementation framework from a more universal perspective.

“Health and illness are a complex, multifaceted experiences and to meet those needs, we need people with specialised knowledge, skills and especially, the ones who are accessible in both rural and urban settings,” Dr O’Rourke elaborated.

The University Hospital’s leadership, including Dean Medical College Dr Adil Haider and Interim CEO, AKUH, Shagufta Hassan supported this initiative and shared willingness to facilitate the integration of APNs at the AKUH. 

Dr Elissa Ladd from the International Council of Nursing’s Advanced Practice Nursing Network pointed out that hundreds of millions of people around the world are able to access quality, safe and affordable healthcare services as nurses make the largest group of healthcare providers, particularly in the primary care setting. 

“In this context, it is not surprising that an investment made on the nursing workforce can yield significant improvement in patient care outcomes,” she added. 

The event also commemorated SONAM’s 40 years in Pakistan and 20 years in East Africa. Six APN competency-building workshops were offered online and attended by nurses and midwives from Afghanistan, Canada, Kenya, Pakistan, Tanzania, UAE, Uganda, USA and the UK.

Work on KCR on track: Minister

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Federal Minister for Railways, Sheikh Rashid Ahmad, has declared that the much publicized commercial project of Tijori Heights, located in Karachi’s bustling area of Gulshan-e-Iqbal, had been built on Railways' land and people must refrain from any investment in it or cooperating with the builders. 

He made the announcement during a press conference at his camp office in Karachi adding that the unauthorized construction on the project had been put to halt by the railways' authorities.

"As many as 14 kilometers of the 30 kilometers of the KCR loop line, from City to Orangi stations, have been made clear and serviceable whereas further can be proceeded only after construction of flyovers/underpasses by the Sindh government,” the Railways' minister disclosed while highlighting the desperate need of civil works by the provincial government in the green line area in Nazimabad. 

The minister stated that 15 out of 40 coaches for the KCR revival project had been fully rehabilitated and the remaining 25 would be made functional in due course of time. He also indicated the floating of CPEC-based ML-1 project any time soon. 

While commenting about privatization of freight and passenger trains the minister stated that the private sector had given marvellous output during the last few weeks that might lead to complete privatization of freight operation in the near future. 

He concluded by expressing his desire for a smooth Karachi to Jalalabad freight corridor that would revolutionize the entire freight business of the country.

Nong Rong assumes ambassadorial duties

 By Masood Sattar Khan 

  (Pakistan News & Features Services)

The new Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Nong Rong, has assumed his responsibilities and met with senior government officials in Islamabad on November 2. 

During a meeting with the Foreign Secretary, Sohail Mahmood, Ambassador Nong Rong reaffirmed the strong commitment of his country to Pakistan-China all-weather strategic cooperative partnership. 

The Foreign Secretary hoped that projects under the China Pakistan economic Corridor (CPEC) would be completed on fast-track. 

Ambassador Nong Rong also presented a copy of his credentials to Zahoor Hassan, Director General of the Protocol Department at Foreign Ministry. 

"It is a great honour to be the ambassador at a critical moment in future development of China-Pakistan relations,” the ambassador remarked.

Turkey adheres to one-China principle

 By Masood Sattar Khan

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

China has denied it that pressured the Turkish government to remove Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's tweet that showed Taiwan's banner among those who gave a helping hand to earthquake-struck Turkey. 

Erdogan had posted a series of tweets, which included the flags of aid-givers to Turkey. The country was hit by a magnitude-7 earthquake last week. 

"Many thanks from the Republic of Turkey to all friendly nations and international organizations for their good wishes and statements of support, following the earthquake in Izmir," the Turkish President was quoted as saying. 

Taiwan's flag was found on the initial version of Erdogan's tweet, which was first found to have been deleted on Sunday. In a new version of the tweet, there was no Taiwan banner. 

“It is a fact recognized by the international community that Taiwan is not a country,” Wang Jianmin, a Taiwan affairs expert at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, stated. 

Turkey has diplomatic ties with China, so deleting the tweet with the Taiwan flag showed its adherence to the one-China principle

LPB founder leaves for USA finally

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Founder President of the Library Promotion Bureau (LPB), Prof Dr Ghani-ul-Akram Sabzwari, has left for the United States of America (USA) after an extended stay of nearly a year in Pakistan on November 1. 

According to details, the LPB founder, who had originally arrived for five-month visit of his home country last November, could not return at the designated time which was in the last week of March this year as flights to USA had been suspended due to the outbreak of the pandemic. 

Although life generally had come to standstill in most parts of the world, including Pakistan, with lockdowns and social distancing becoming norms due to coronavirus (COVID-19) since the mid of March, it went to the credit of Prof Dr Ghani-ul-Akram Sabzwari to have worked passionately from home all along. 

As lockdown restrictions were relaxed after a few months, he resumed visiting the record office of LPB, a pioneering non-governmental organization in the field of education and research. He ensured the timely publication of the Pakistan Library & Information Science Journal (PLISJ) although the delivery of the quarterly magazine to its members and subscribers was affected for some time due to postal issues. 

He continued coming to the LPB office, housed in the complex of Liaquat Memorial Library, Karachi, regularly and he last spoke during the felicitation ceremony for Jumbo Publishing’s new book ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ on October 28. 

As in the past, Prof Dr Nasim Fatima, Chief Editor, Adab Wa Kutub Khana, will now be spearheading the bureau’s activities from Pakistan in the absence of its founder and leader. 

The first lady chairperson of the Library and Information Science department at the University of Karachi, Prof Dr Nasim Fatima has been chiefly responsible for setting up and operating what has become a tastefully decorated record office of the LPB.

China confident to lift impoverished rural population by 2020 end

 By Masood Sattar Khan 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

China is confident to lift impoverished rural population out of poverty by the end of this year thus achieving the UN's Sustain Development Goal on poverty eradication ten years ahead of schedule. 

The spokesperson of Chinese Foreign Ministry, Wang Wenbin, has informed a media briefing in Beijing that China was committed to contributing to the global cause of poverty reduction and helping developing countries achieve poverty eradication. 

The spokesperson also urged the international community to strengthen solidarity and cooperation to ensure no country is left behind in the global poverty alleviation cause. 

In the last six years over 2.92 million registered impoverished people lifted off poverty in NW Xinjiang.

SHRC orders to reinstate employees

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), headed by Justice (Rtd) Majida Razvi, has ordered M/s Al-Ghazi Tractors Ltd to reinstate its two employees to their original cadres as their resignations were obtained illegally under duress and in violation of laws. 

The HR Commission issued the order on petitions filed by Muhammed Jahan Zaib and Ms Iffat Khan charging the company of obtaining their resignations under duress and later terminating their services during COVID-19 pandemic. 

The respondents, the Commission’s written order said, had clearly violated the law of Sindh COVID-19 Relief Ordinance 2020 and Sindh Terms of Employment (Standing Order) Act 2015 in the due course which also leads to violation of fundamental rights of the petitioners as they were not given the opportunity to be heard. 

The SHRC ordered that the two petitioners be also compensated financially for the time they stayed away from their jobs due to unlawful act of the respondent. The order further said that strict disciplinary action may be taken against the officers responsible for duress and harassment against the employees of AGTL. 

The Commission observed that the allegations leveled in the present cases clearly indicate the intention of the respondent as both the petitioners were shown two letters, one resignation and other termination and they had no choice but to choose one. 

It noted that knowing the general psyche of the employees that resignation was generally preferred over termination the respondent played with it and succeeded in obtaining the expected result. 

“Therefore it can be said that the resignations were obtained under force and as such are illegal and null and void,” it was ruled.

China’s new ambassador to present credentials next week

 By Masood Sattar Khan 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The newly designated Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Nong Rong, is scheduled to meet President Dr Arif Alvi next week to present his credentials and deliver an important message from President Xi Jinping. 

The first non-career diplomat for Pakistan for 40 years, Nong Rong assumed his assignment in Islamabad last week and had important meetings with senior top officers, including that of the Foreign Office. 

He has brought a special message of goodwill of Chinese President Xi Jinping for the government and people of Pakistan that he would deliver to the President Dr Arif Alvi. 

Ambassador Nong Rong has been dealing in foreign trade and economic affairs for the past three decades besides in various capacities. He, however, was never associated with the Chinese Foreign Office but he’s known to be having tremendous skill of negotiating and comprehending trade and economic matters. 

Nong Rong, 53, belongs to the remote southern Chinese autonomous region of Guangxi Zhuang which is located near Vietnam’s border. 

The diplomatic sources said that Nong Rong would provide much needed impetus to the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the flagship gigantic Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), connecting China with the whole world through new highways and routes. He is regarded among close aides of current Chinese leadership.

Author Asma Hasan showered with praise in Mayar-e-Zindagi’s felicitation ceremony

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Library Promotion Bureau (LPB), one of the pioneering non-governmental organizations of the country engaged in the field of education and research, befittingly hosted felicitation ceremony for Jumbo Publishing’s new book ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ at its record office, housed in Liaquat Memorial Library, Karachi, on October 28. 

Having been branded as ‘Dream Book by Dream Team’ the LPB event brought to light the various aspects of the book, authored by the Lahore-based Asma Hassan, as three eminent scholars generously praised the publication for its unique content and excellent production. 

Prof Dr Ghani-ul-Akram Sabzwari, Founder President, LPB, and a former chairperson of the Library and Information Science department at the University of Karachi, described ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ as a multi-faceted book which covered the different aspects of life and it possessed all the ingredients to the keep the readers engrossed. 

“It’s really fascinating to go through the various chapters which are precise and to the point. It’s a kind of a family book which could be read by all members regardless of their age. I will strongly recommend this publication to everyone who is fond of books because there’s a lot to learn from it besides obtaining pleasure of reading,” the living legend of library science complimented. 

Prof Dr Nasim Fatima, Chief Editor, Adab Wa Kutub Khana, and also the first lady chairperson of the Library and Information Science department at the University of Karachi, reckoned that Asma Hassan has done a service to the nation by bringing out such a wonderful book in the national language on the subject of sociology. 

“Asma Hassan represents the younger generation of writers and it’s very heartening to note that she has chosen to share her thoughts in Urdu which will allow the book to be read by the masses of the country. It’s also very encouraging to discover that she has penned her thoughts in very candid manner,” Prof Dr Nasim Fatima noted. 

Dr Amna Khatoon, Lecturer, Allama Iqbal Open University, and Editor, Pakistan Library & Information Science Journal (PLISJ), was equally impressed with high quality of production of book which will facilitate the readers in their quest for knowledge. 

“While Asma Hassan’s articles illustrate wisdom and motivation, another major factor in making the book handy and useful is its neat printing which will not irritate the bookworms. Another plus point is the selection of optimum font size which makes the book reader friendly,” she noted. 

Having contributed foreword to the book, renowned social worker, Nasreen Masood, who was also the guest of honour in the ceremony, showered Asma Hassan with praise for starting her career as an author with a bang. 

“It’s not often that authors are able to earn this kind of reception and recognition in their first book but Asma Hassan has really done a marvelous work and she thoroughly deserves all this attention,” Nasreen Masood complimented. 

Addressing the ceremony via video link from Lahore, author Asma Hassan expressed her gratitude to the worthy speakers for lauding her book and boosting her spirits. 

 

“Although I have been passionate about writing since childhood, the publication of my first book ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ was certainly the fulfillment my most cherished dream in life yet. But I had never dreamed to be praised by such learned scholars. I am simply overwhelmed by the appreciation and I don’t have adequate words to reciprocate,” she observed. 

“Inspired by the success of my first book, I will continue improving my writing skills and I will try my best to author many more books in future aimed at serving the people,” Asma Hassan added. 

In his closing remarks, Syed Khalid Mahmood, on behalf of Jumbo Publishing, congratulated Asma Hassan for writing such wonderful and inspirational articles during the ongoing pandemic which were put together in book form and titled ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ which is now being promoted as Dream Book by Dream Team. 

He also thanked Library Promotion Bureau for having organized the ceremony which was a testimonial to the book of being high in quality and value. 

Published just a month ago, ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ has been widely hailed for its catchy name, the lively painting from emerging artist Beenish Khalid on the cover page, and the absorbing content between covers. The superbly printed hardbound book is being sold at a retail price of Rs 495 in Pakistan.

LPB set to hold Mayar-e-Zindagi’s felicitation ceremony on October 28

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

All is set for Library Promotion Bureau (LPB), one of the most respected non-governmental organizations of the country, to organize felicitation ceremony for the newly published book ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ at its record office, housed in Liaquat Memorial Library, Karachi, on October 28. 

Prof Dr Ghani-ul-Akram Sabzwari, Founder President, LPB, and a former chairperson of the Library and Information Science department at the University of Karachi, will be the first speaker and he will be followed by Prof Dr Nasim Fatima, Chief Editor, Adab Wa Kutub Khana, and also the first lady chairperson of the Library and Information Science department at the University of Karachi. 

Dr Amna Khatoon, Lecturer, Allama Iqbal Open University, and Editor, Pakistan Library & Information Science Journal (PLISJ), will be the third and final LPB speaker to share her views about the book ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ having been authored by the Lahore-based writer, Asma Hassan. 

Renowned social worker, Nasreen Masood, who has contributed foreword to the book, to be the guest of honour in the ceremony, will also speak on the occasion. Author Asma Hassan will address the ceremony via video link while the closing remarks will be delivered by Syed Khalid Mahmood on behalf of Jumbo Publishing. 

‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ is being promoted as Dream Book by Dream Team by Jumbo Publishing and the book turned out to be one of the major attractions at the Online Book Fair organized by Paramount Books earlier this month. 

‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ has been widely hailed for its catchy name, the lively painting from emerging artist Beenish Khalid on the cover page, and the creative contents between covers. The superbly printed hardbound book is being sold at a retail price of Rs 495 in Pakistan.

PLISJ completes 51 years of non-stop publication

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Pakistan Library and Information Science Journal (PLISJ), a quarterly publication of the Library Promotion Bureau (LPB), Karachi, has successfully completed 51 years of its non-stop publication by bringing out its October-December 2020 issue (Volume 51, Number 4) recently. 

It has lived to the reputation of braving all challenges as the quarterly journal has come out in time once more even though the life in general still remained disturbed by the pandemic of coronavirus (COVID-19) whose second wave has already caused concerns in Pakistan and many other countries. 

Besides overcoming the unforeseen obstacles, as a result of the virus from the beginning of the current year, the LPB management has had to continuously tackle the lukewarm response from the library professionals in matters relating to subscription and its timely remittances. 

The PLISJ Chief Editor, Prof Dr Ghani-ul-Akram Sabzwari, who is also the Founder President of the LPB, has pointed it out in nearly every issue of the journal but somehow the community of library professionals, having reaped enormous benefits from it, has remained sluggish in their response. 

Prof Dr Ghani-ul-Akram Sabzwari, an ex-chairperson of the University of Karachi’s Library and Information Science department, alnogwith his trustworthy lieutenant and former student, Prof Dr Nasim Fatima, has been chiefly responsible for keeping the bureau as well as the journal afloat against the heaviest of odds.

800 Afghan students to get scholarships in Pakistan

 By Masood Sattar Khan

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

As many as eight hundred Afghan students avail scholarship to get education in various universities of Pakistan. 

This was announced by the Pakistan Ambassador to Afghanistan, Mansoor Ahmed Khan, during a ceremony at the Pakistan Embassy in Kabul. 

The event was attended by the group of 800 Afghan students, leaving for Pakistan for getting education under a scholarship scheme, according to a twitter message. 

The Afghanistan Minister for Higher Education, Dr Abbas Basir, was the chief guest on the occasion.

Pakistani movie to be screened across China

 By Masood Sattar Khan

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

A Pakistani movie is a part of the hectic preparations having got underway to celebrate 2021 the year of Pakistan-China establishment of diplomatic relationship. 

‘Parwaaz Hai Janoon’ is a film, packed with action, romance and war, which would be screen across China from November 13. The movie was made in 2018. 

It’s going to be the first Pakistani film to be shown in China in last 45 years. It’s a contrast of action and romance being shown as part of commemorations of upcoming 70th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic ties between Pakistan and China next year. 

The relationship between Pakistan and China has been very strong over the years and it has also been referred to as iron clad brotherhood.

China-made Pakistan's Orange Line Metro Train being commissioned at Lahore on October 25

 By Masood Sattar Khan 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Orange Line Metro Train, developed with financial and technical assistance of China, is scheduled to be inaugurated by the Punjab Chief Minister, Usman Buzdar, at Lahore on October 25. 

For the auspicious occasion, the new Chinese Ambassador, Rong Nong who arrived in Pakistan a couple of days ago, has also been invited. 

The metro train for the public will be available from October 26. A fare of Rupees 40 has been fixed initially and it will be reviewed after six months. The metro train will cover 27-km distance in 45 minutes.

In the first phase, the train would start operation from 7 in the morning and end operation at 8 in night. A team of Chinese experts has imparted training to Pakistani train drivers and other associated staff. 

The commissioning of metro train has fulfilled another project launched under the auspices of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Olive saplings distributed in KP

 By Masood Sattar Khan 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa (KP) government has distributed over nine thousand saplings of olive free of cost to the Bajore districts in order to boost its production. 

The KP government has planned to plant olive saplings in 15,000 acre of land that would help create jobs, generate income for the local population as well as the country could save a lot of precious foreign exchange being spent on import of edible oil made of olive. 

The federal government has also been proactive in this matter and efforts are being made for boosting this particular sector.

Olive harvest reaches 11,000 tons

 By Masood Sattar Khan 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The local olive harvest cultivation in the country during the current season is projected to cross 11,000 tons, showing a significant development towards reducing reliance on the imported edible oil as well as to exploit the export potential of this particular agriculture produce.

“The country is expecting to extract about 13,000 tons of extra virgin olive worth millions of dollars that would help to boost the farm income with less investment and use of inputs,” Project Director of Olive Cultivation on Commercial Scale in Pakistan, Dr Muhammad Tariq, disclosed in an interview. 

He pointed out that olive has been successfully cultivated over 27,000 hectares of land across the country and it was set to extend its cultivation to over 70,000 hectares to turn the marginal lands into productive for enhancing the income of small scale growers. 

Under the olive cultivation project the farmers were provided about 550,000 plants last year and this year over 675,000 more plants would be distributed. 

Dr Tariq added that the government intended to provide about 2.2 million plants and bring about 50,000 hectares under olive cultivation by end of 2022-23, adding that if continued with same spirit, the country would be included in the list of potential exports of extra virgin olive oil. 

Meanwhile, the provincial governments of Punjab and Balochistan have also installed three units each in different districts, whereas the private sector was also active and had installed its mobile plants in Fasilabad and Chakwal. 

In order to facilitate the local growers of Balochistan, five oil processing units have been installed there, besides the farmers were also provided training of value addition of the product and processing. 

This year, he said that the government had decided to organize two-day International Olive Conference in Khuzdar, which would be virtually participated by experts from Greece, Italy and Spain, adding that local scientists and experts would also take part in the event. 

The conference to be held from October 21 is aimed to encourage olive cultivation in the province which have a brighter scope in back drop of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects.

LPB to organize felicitation ceremony for Mayar-e-Zindagi on October 28

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Library Promotion Bureau (LPB), one of the oldest serving non-governmental organizations of the country, will be organizing felicitation ceremony for the newly published book ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ at its research office, housed in Liaquat Memorial Library, Karachi, on October 28. 

According to details, Prof Dr Ghani-ul-Akram Sabzwari, Founder President, LPB, and a former chairperson of the Library and Information Science department at the University of Karachi, Prof Dr Nasim Fatima, Chief Editor, Adab Wa Kutub Khana, and also the first lady chairperson of the Library and Information Science department at the University of Karachi, and Dr Amna Khatoon, Lecturer, Allama Iqbal Open University, will share their views about the book ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ having been authored by Asma Hassan. 

Eminent social worker, Nasreen Masood, who has contributed foreword to the book, will be the guest of honour on the occasion while its author Asma Hassan will join the action from Lahore via zoom. 

Having been brought out by Jumbo Publishing last, ‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ is being promoted as Dream Book by Dream Team and it has already caught the imagination of the masses as it made a worthy appearance at the recently concluded Online Book Fair organized by Paramount Books. 

‘Mayar-e-Zindagi’ has been recognized for its catchy name, the attractive painting from emerging artist Beenish Khalid on the cover page, and the high quality contents between covers. The neatly printed hardbound book has a retail price of Rs 495 in Pakistan.

KCCI chief tributes Hakim Said

 By Syed Sajid Aziz

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

“The whole world knows about Hakim Muhammad Said as a legendary scholar, author, researcher and philanthropist but let’s not lose sight of the fact that he was also a visionary entrepreneur who created jobs for millions of people during his lifetime by founding an organization like Hamdard Laboratories,” Shariq Vohra, President, Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), complimented on the occasion of the death anniversary of Hakim Muhammad Said on October 17. 

“The services of Hakim Muhammad Said the great in trade and commerce have not been particularly highlighted because of his awesome stature in the fields of tibb, medical science, literature, education and social work,” he added.

“We salute him and we remember him for his accomplishments which continue to be the source of inspiration for all of us,” the KCCI President acknowledged. Hakim Said was born at Delhi on January 9, 1920. 

He was a quick learner from the outset and he had acquired command in the languages of Arabic, Persian, Urdu and English from a young age. 

Although his family had an established herbal medical business in India, he chose to migrate to the newly founded country of Pakistan in 1948. 

Upon arrival he began his practice of tibb at Karachi before setting up Hamdard Dawakhana at a later stage from where he started manufacturing of herbal medicines. 

The establishment of Hamdard Laboratories turned out to be a masterstroke as it produced, among others, the flagship syrup of Rooh Afza which became one of the leading brands of the country. He started Hamdard Foundation to extend his philanthropic works. 

Hailed as one of the most respected personalities of the country, Hakim Said was appointed the Governor of Sindh in 1993. He was assassinated in Karachi on October 17, 1998.

Former SSUET VC passes away

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Prof Dr Jawaid Hassan Rivzi, a former Vice Chancellor and Dean Applied Sciences of the Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET) passed away on October 16. 

A learned mathematician and a proactive administrator, he had earned the reputation of being a thorough gentleman man and a kind human being whose forte was courteous attitude towards his associates and fellow professionals. 

He’s recognized for having played a pivotal role in the progress, success and development of the SSUET and his services will be remembered for a long time. 

Sports in general and cricket in particular were among his favourite pastimes and he followed the big events very keenly despite his preoccupations at the SSUET.

Railways to mobilize all resources to overcome train derailments: DS Karachi

 By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

The Divisional Superintendent of Pakistan Railways, Karachi, Arshad Salam Khattak, has vowed that their institution will mobilize all resources to overcome train derailments and prevent accidents. 

He conducted an extensive inspection of railways infrastructure from Karachi City to Karachi Bunder, commonly called KBX yard, on October 12. 

He was accompanied by Divisional Transportation Officer (P) Ghulam Farid Asad, Divisional Engineer-1, Khadim Hussain Bhambro, Divisional Medical Officer Dr Abdul Samad, Assistant Officers and related staff. 

The pedestrian inspection, primarily focused on the track, was so holistic that it took four hours in covering almost one mile distance. 

The staff deputed enroute was inquired about the recent derailments happened in yards. 

The DS pinpointed the spots of derailments along the track and directed the concerned officers for utilizing all the available resources for concluding a smooth and steady freight train operation. 

The office record available at SS office City Station and Divisional Transportation Manager (Dry Port) office was also examined thoroughly. The DS was apprised about some major requisites by the staff working at the site. He directed the officers for providing them at the earliest.

Coronavirus Update: Relief in Karachi?

 By Mukhtar Alam

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

To the disbelief of many, Karachi, the worst affected, among big cities of Pakistan, due to COVID-19 reported its daily new cases very marginally on October 11, which was 22 during the last 24 hours, taking the tally of the infections to 140,294 for the entire province.

The Sindh Chief Minister, Syed Murad Ali Shah, in his daily COVID-19 statement on October 11, shared that in all 163 new cases were detected out of 8,497 tests across the province. 

According to him, Karachi division’s four districts registered a total 22 new cases, while two others, South and Korangi, did not report any cases during the last 24 hours ending October 11 morning. 

Karachi was the city which reported the first COVID-19 case of the country on February 26 and since then there had been no letup in term of the infection here. Since the outbreak the city reported on an average 400 new cases daily until October 10. 

Keen observers were of the view that the October 11 figure was not any true reflection of the disease’s prevalence in Karachi. 

According to official data, there were 4,810 active patients of COVID-19 in the province by October 11, including 4,506 receiving the treatment at homes, six in the isolation centres and 298 in hospitals, including 148 critically ill and 22 put on ventilators. 

In the meantime, six more expired in the province during the last 24 hours, taking the total of COVID-19 fatalities to 2,555. 

The breakdown of the new cases remained as Karachi (22), Hyderabad (9), Dadu (8), Jamshoro (6), Sanghar (4), Ghotki (3), Larkana (3), Matiari (2), Mirpurkhas (2), Sujawal (2), Tando Allahyar (2), Shaheed Benazirabad (1), Shikarpur (1), Tando Mohammad Khan (1), Umerkot (1) and Badin (1). On the other hand, 137 patients recovered from the diseases, taking the tally of cured people to 132,933.

China joins global effort to ensure COVID vaccine access for all

 By Masood Sattar Khan

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

China has placed itself among three additional countries to have signed on to a global initiative aimed at ensuring fair and equitable access to a coronavirus vaccine once developed, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), a UN specialized agency. 

Together with South Korea and the tiny Pacific island of Nauru, China joined the COVAX Facility this week, bringing the total number of participating nations and economies to 171, WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has announced during his regular media briefing in Geneva on the pandemic. 

“The world is eagerly anticipating the results of trials of vaccines against COVID-19, which are needed for WHO authorization. Once we have an effective vaccine, we must also use it effectively, and the best way to do that is by making sure it’s available to all countries equitably through the COVAX Facility,” Tedros said. 

The global mechanism will work to deliver two billion doses by the end of next year. It currently has the largest portfolio of potential vaccines, with several in advanced human trials. 

“The more countries that participate in the COVAX Facility, the greater opportunity of being able to roll out vaccines as rapidly as possible, as fairly as possible, to reduce the risk of severe COVID disease globally,” Dr. Bruce Aylward, Senior WHO Advisor, added.

Coronavirus Update: Spike halted?

 By Mukhtar Alam

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Though there was an impression that cases of COVID-19 were on increase again in Sindh, the authorities on October 10. confirmed an almost 50% decrease in number of samples tested for the virus across the province during the last 24 hours.

The Sindh Chief Minister, Syed Murad Ali Shah, in his COVID-19 status statement, revealed that as many as 7,515 suspected samples were examined at different laboratories by October 10 morning, against the collective daily maximum capacity of 14,940 tests. 

No reason was given for the reduced testing activities, while the daily new infection rate remained static around 3%. 

The designated COVID-19 testing services had handled 11,138 samples during the 24 hours ending on October 9 morning, out of which 376 (3.37%) were found positive for the lethal virus. 

According to the chief minister’s statement, as many as six new relevant fatalities were registered on October 10, while the number of patients actively suffering from the virus stood at 4,787, out of which 4,491 were in home-isolation, six in the isolation centre, while only 289 were hospitalized, including 187 those undergoing the critical phase of their health and 32 put on ventilators. 

As far as the breakdown of 221new cases were concerned, Karachi headed the table once with 59 cases (27%) followed by Hyderabad (11), Jamshoro (8), Larkana (5), Sukkur (5), Ghotki (3), Mirpurkhas (3), Shaheed Benazirabad (2), Tando Mohammad Khan (2), Jacobabad (2), Dadu (1), Umerkot (1) and others. 

Of the laboratories designated for the coronavirus detection at Karachi, five each from the private and public sector facilities conducted 3,075 tests during the last 24 hours, against 4,440 samples examined by two public sector laboratories at Hyderabad and Larkana. 

According to official reports, six deaths registered by Sindh on October 10 included five from Karachi and one from Shaheed Benazirabad. It was learnt that the two persons who lost their lives due to the virus infection on October 9 belonged to Karachi while two of the eight people, who expired on October 8, were reported receiving treatment at homes.