The Rehman Medical Institute (RMI) hosted a critical symposium on maternal and child health and nutrition, aiming to tackle longstanding challenges and improve the well-being of mothers and children across the province. The event brought together prominent experts like Dr. Victoria Hall Moran and Dr. Nicola Mary Lowe from the University of Central Lancashire, alongside local experts including Dr. Saima Gillani (Gynecology & Obstetrics) and Dr. Fazal Majeed (Director Nutrition Health Department, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa).

The symposium adopted a two-pronged approach: Raising Awareness – shedding light on critical maternal and child health issues in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including delayed medical care, limited public awareness about essential healthcare practices, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Fostering Collaboration – bringing together stakeholders and experts to develop solutions and work collaboratively towards improving maternal and child health outcomes.

Discussions during the symposium focused on various challenges hindering progress in the province, such as limited access to healthcare, lack of awareness about proper nutrition, and resource constraints. However, experts also highlighted opportunities for improvement. Dr. Victoria Hall Moran's presentation addressed "Current Challenges and Opportunities in Maternal & Child Health," while Dr. Nicola Mary Lowe focused on "Strategies to Fulfill Nutritional Needs for Maternal & Child Well-being."

Dr. Lowe emphasized the symposium's importance, stating it served as a vital platform amidst a "global crisis in terms of nutrition, particularly for mothers and children." She stressed the importance of maternal, infant, and child health for a healthy population, highlighting the additional challenges posed by recent global issues like the COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing conflicts, and disruptions to the agri-food system leading to food insecurity. Dr. Lowe's message underscored the critical need for research to improve nutrition and maternal and child health.

The symposium concluded with a renewed commitment from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, represented by Dr. Fazal Majeed, to prioritize maternal, child health, and nutrition programs. This commitment, combined with international expertise, local knowledge, and a focus on collaboration, positions the Rehman Medical Institute's symposium as a significant step towards a healthier future for mothers and children in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Dr. Victoria Hall Moran echoed these sentiments, expressing her appreciation for the symposium. "I really enjoyed the event," she said. "It was very valuable to hear other speakers and visit the area where research actually takes place. The discussion was very important and engaging to discuss the situation."

By combining international expertise with local knowledge and a focus on collaboration, the Rehman Medical Institute's symposium has taken a significant step towards a healthier future for mothers and children in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.