Pre-Conference Workshop on Genomics in LMICs Sets Stage for BIOCON 2025

Islamabad, October 9, 2025 – The Department of Clinical Biochemistry & Human Genetics at Shifa College of Medicine successfully hosted a pre-conference workshop, “Challenges and Solutions in Genomics Practice in LMICs.” Organized by Prof. Dr. Sumreena Mansoor, the event gathered over 50 participants, including clinicians, researchers, faculty, and students, to advance the discourse on genomic medicine in low- and middle-income countries. The event was honored by the presence of an esteemed panel of guests and experts, which included Dr. Ashraf Hussain, Dr. Saima Pervaiz from Shifa College of Medicine; Dr. M. Jawad Khan,Dr. M. Ajmal from COMSATS University Islamabad; Dr.Jawad Hassan Consultant Geneticist from Shifa International Hospital Dr. Farzana Hakim from Foundation University; and Dr. Sahar Ikram from Federal Medical College. The proceedings were inaugurated with keynote addresses by Prof. Dr. M. Amir, Dean and Principal of the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences (AHS), who set a visionary tone for the day’s discussions. The scientific sessions provided a comprehensive overview, from setting the context by Prof. Dr. Sumreena Mansoor, to the translation of molecular genetics by Dr. Maleeha Azam, and a critical discussion on ethics by Prof. Dr. Saima Pervaiz Iqbal. Interactive case discussions led to a collaborative roadmap for solutions. An international perspective was provided by Mr. Jonathan Gibson of Metabolic Support UK and a video message from Dr. Zulfiqar Bhutta. The workshop concluded by reinforcing the cornerstones of genomic progress: interdisciplinary collaboration, evolving ethics, local capacity building, and patient-centred care. Special thanks were extended to partners SOMCB, Metabolic Support UK, SickKids Hospital, and SIMD for their invaluable support.