Principal Amir-ud-Din Medical College Prof Farooq Afzal has been elected as President of the Society of Surgical Oncology Pakistan (SSOP). In the inaugural address, he vowed to launch effective nationwide campaigns aimed at educating the public on early diagnosis and preventive measures against cancer. Prof Afzal stated that his top priorities include the modern training of young surgeons, equipping them with cutting-edge technology, and fostering a culture of research to ensure that Pakistani surgeons can compete globally while providing superior care to patients. He highlighted the urgent need to mainstream minimally invasive surgical techniques in oncology to ensure faster patient recovery. “In this era of rapid technological advancement, doctors must continuously refine their professional skills. Progress is impossible without research and modern knowledge; therefore, motivating young surgeons toward clinical research is a cornerstone of my vision,” he stated. Prof Afzal thanked surgeons across the country for their trust. He assured them that he would lead through teamwork and a coordinated strategy, striving to elevate the Society to international standards and ensuring the highest quality of care for cancer patients.

Amir-ud-Din Medical College Principal Prof Farooq Afzal has described the white coat as a prestigious symbol of professional dignity, knowledge and a sacred commitment to serving humanity. Speaking at the “White Coat and Oath-Taking Ceremony” for new medical students at AMC on Monday, he highlighted that society holds high expectations of moral values from the medical profession. Chairman of Akhuwat Foundation, Dr Amjad Saquib, was the chief guest. Prof. Nudrat Sohail, MS Prof. Faryad Hussain, Prof. Muhammad Shahid, Prof. Farah Shafi, Prof. Amna Ahsan Cheema, Prof. Farhan Rashid, and Dr Shaista Mubeen were also present. Prof. Nudrat Sohail briefed the students regarding the college’s academic activities, discipline and administrative matters. Prof Farooq Afzal stated that doctors must prioritise patient treatment and life-saving over their personal comfort. He urged students to adopt humility, modesty and professional discipline as essential parts of their lives while making respect for parents and teachers their hallmark. He urged students to seek full guidance from their teachers during lectures and develop the habit of questioning to quench their intellectual thirst, as curiosity and inquiry are the foundations of knowledge. He urged parents to remain in constant contact with teachers to stay informed about their children’s academic progress, noting that only those students who achieve great success whose upbringing is supported by teachers and parents on the same platform. Dr Amjad Saquib clarified that the field of medicine is not merely a source of livelihood but a sacred duty to serve suffering humanity. He urged students to dedicate their academic and professional capabilities to the underprivileged and marginalised sections of society to make their careers meaningful and dignified. Other speakers welcomed the students, noting that medical education is a challenging yet highly prestigious journey that demands tireless hard work, complete focus, and high moral training. Talking to the media at the conclusion of the event, Prof Farooq Afzal remarked that patients are a “trust” with doctors, and healers must utilise all their professional skills to focus on their care. He added that there is no substitute for the peace and smiles brought to the faces of the distressed through medical care, and for this purpose, they must dedicate themselves.