Taking the Hippocratic Oath in unison at the second convocation of the varsity on Thursday, they promised themselves that they will practise their profession with conscience, dignity and prefer their patient's health and welfare over everything else.
Dressed smartly in their black graduation gowns, the young doctors said that they were not optimistic about their future in the 'Pakistani system'.
Gold medallist Maryam Irshad told The Express Tribune that they were all very patriotic. "But at the end of the day, the system demeans our patriotism and forces us to leave this country," she said. "We will prefer to stay here and serve the public only if we are provided with the basic facilities for the medical profession." Nonetheless, she added that she felt blessed and excited to have passed from the varsity with flying colours. According to her, she had no plans to move abroad despite the fact that merit was never given due respect in Pakistan.
Another fresh graduate, Aqib Javed Viyani, was of the opinion that due to lack of organisational structure for the medical profession in the country, their hard work of five years was not paid back properly.
"I am currently doing my house job in PNS Shifa and earning only Rs20,000 per month," he said. He added that he intended to fly overseas for further specialisation in the field but has plans to come back and serve his own people.
Shireen Sabir Ansari was awarded a silver medal and Asifa Wasim, Ali Usman and Zulqarnain Haider achieved distinction in their respective departments in the convocation.
The pro-chancellor of Bahria University, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah, was the chief guest on the occasion and conferred the degrees upon the graduating doctors.
Congratulating the fresh graduates, Zakaullah said that we are facing multiple challenges arising from global economic changes and increasingly fierce and complex health issues and the country's young doctors are a great asset in such a time. The entire nation has high hopes and expectations from the young doctors and hopes that they will play a key role in combating the health problems of our people, he added.
He advised the graduates to be men and women of sterling character, adopt a positive attitude towards life and sacrifice personal gains for national interest. The naval chief promised the support of Pakistan Navy that, according to him, will always be there to facilitate the young doctors in their future endeavours.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 22nd, 2015.
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