KMU Peshawar launches Pak-UK oral cancer research consortium and concludes ICRG-46 project
PESHAWAR: In a landmark advancement for cancer research in Pakistan, Khyber Medical University (KMU) Peshawar officially launched the Pak-UK Oral Cancer Research Consortium (POCRC) and concluded the Innovative Collaborative Research Grant (ICRG-46) Project, jointly funded by the British Council and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan.
Held at the prestigious Alexander Fleming Senate Hall, the event brought together leading oral cancer researchers, oncologists, surgeons, academicians, and policymakers from both Pakistan and the United Kingdom to celebrate collaborative achievements and set a strategic path for future research.
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A milestone in UK–Pakistan collaboration on oral cancer
The ICRG-46 project was jointly led by Prof. Dr. Ali Khurram, Dean of the School of Clinical Dentistry at the University of Sheffield, UK, and Dr. Asif Ali from the Department of Histopathology at KMU Peshawar. The project generated significant insights into oral cancer biomarkers, early detection, and the potential for national screening guidelines—addressing one of Pakistan’s most pressing non-communicable disease burdens.
Event highlights and expert engagement
The ceremony opened with recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a welcome address from Dr. Benish Aleem, Head of Oral Pathology at KMU, who reflected on the project's achievements and acknowledged all collaborators from Pakistan and the UK.
Key proceedings included:
- A keynote speech by Prof. Dr. Muslim Khan, Head of OMFS at Khyber College of Dentistry, titled “The Current Landscape of Oral Cancer Research in Pakistan”, which outlined national research gaps and future directions.
- A project outcomes presentation by Dr. Asif Ali, highlighting findings from ICRG-46 that could inform future clinical protocols and policy.
Vision for the future: POCRC officially launched
A dynamic panel discussion on “The Future of Oral Cancer Research & Clinical Collaboration” featured insights from:
- Dr. Irfan Shah, Principal, Hi-Tec Dental College, Taxilla
- Prof. Dr. Akif Ullah Khan, Director, IRNUM
- Mr. Jamshed, GM, Khyber News
- Dr. Ali Talha, Dr. Irfan, Dr. Muhammad Salman Khan, and Dr. Najeeb
The panel emphasized:
- The urgent need for early oral cancer detection protocols
- Development of a centralized oral cancer registry
- Increased biomarker research
- Greater clinical-academic integration and policy advocacy
The Pak-UK Oral Cancer Research Consortium (POCRC) was officially launched by Prof. Dr. Samrina Mohammad, Head of Oral Pathology, Khyber College of Dentistry, receiving widespread acclaim from the academic and clinical communities.
Recognition and closing remarks
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zia ul Haq and Chief Guest Dr. Syed Nasir Shah commended the teams for their groundbreaking work and reiterated institutional commitment to advancing oral cancer research in Pakistan.
The event concluded with:
- Certificates and shields distributed to project contributors in appreciation of their excellence
- A group photograph capturing the moment
- A heartfelt vote of thanks to all participants and collaborators
This launch signifies a transformative step in addressing the oral cancer burden in Pakistan through UK–Pakistan research collaboration, innovation, and actionable clinical insight.
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