On 23 October 2025 at the PAF Convention Hall in Karachi, Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan was presented with Pakistan’s first National Health Award in the category of Public Health Leadership during the 22nd Health Asia International Exhibition & Conference.
Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor of the Health Services Academy, received the accolade in recognition of his leadership, research and sustained contributions to public health practice and education in Pakistan. The event was organised under the Health Asia banner in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination and the Special Investment Facilitation Council.
The ceremony featured Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal as the chief guest, and was attended by health experts, policymakers, researchers and institutional representatives from across the country. Dr. Zakiuddin Ahmed, convener and co-founder of Health Asia, said he was proud to honour individuals who have made remarkable contributions to Pakistan’s healthcare system and highlighted the importance of recognising Public Health Leadership at a national level.
Federal Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal emphasised that global-standard events like Health Asia strengthen the national health system and provide an important platform for sharing experiences. He congratulated Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan for his exceptional service and leadership in public health.
After receiving the award Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan expressed gratitude and dedicated the honour to his team and students, describing the recognition as a testament to collective effort: ‘This award is not just a personal honor but a recognition of the collective efforts of all public health professionals in Pakistan.’ His remarks reflected a commitment to advancing Public Health Leadership through education, research and institution-building.
Health Asia 2025 featured more than 24 international and 240 national speakers across various sessions, while over 200 organisations showcased new healthcare products and services. Organisers reaffirmed their commitment to promoting innovation, collaboration and policy advancement in Pakistan’s healthcare sector, underlining the continuing role of events like Health Asia in strengthening Public Health Leadership nationwide.
