HARIPUR: In a significant academic achievement aimed at strengthening public health systems in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, PhD scholar Majid Ali Tahir of the Department of Public Health and Nutrition, University of Haripur, successfully defended his doctoral thesis titled “A Comprehensive Assessment of Preparedness and Readiness of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Manage Public Health Emergencies” during a public defense held on June 22, 2026.
The research offers valuable insights into the province’s capacity to prevent, detect and respond to public health emergencies. Through a comprehensive assessment, the study identifies key strengths within the existing health security framework, highlights critical gaps, and proposes practical recommendations to enhance emergency preparedness and response mechanisms across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Academics and experts present at the defense appreciated the relevance of the research, particularly in light of increasing global health challenges and the growing need for resilient public health systems. The study is expected to contribute significantly to evidence-based policymaking and strategic planning for health emergency management in the province.
The scholar acknowledged the contributions of distinguished external examiners, Prof. Dr. Saira Afzal, Dean of the Institute of Public Health, Lahore, and Prof. Dr. Rubeena Zakar, Professor of Public Health at the University of the Punjab, Lahore, for their valuable observations and recommendations that helped enhance the quality of the research. Dr. Abbas Khan served as the internal examiner.
Majid Ali Tahir also expressed gratitude to his supervisor, Dr. Ijaz Ul Haq, and co-supervisor, Dr. Shahbaz Ahmad Zakki, for their continuous mentorship, academic guidance and support throughout his doctoral journey.
He further appreciated the institutional support provided by Head of Department Dr. Shahbaz Ahmad Zakki, Dean of the Faculty of Biological and Biomedical Sciences Prof. Dr. Aziz Ullah, and Director of the Advanced Studies and Research Board (ASRB) Dr. Sami Ullah Khan, whose encouragement and guidance facilitated the successful completion of the research.
The successful defense marks another milestone for the University of Haripur’s commitment to advancing research that addresses pressing public health challenges and contributes to the development of effective health policies and emergency response systems in Pakistan.
Majid Ali Tahir PhD scholar
