KARACHI: Dr. Ishrat ul Ebad Khan Institute of Oral Health Sciences (DIKIHOS) successfully conducted its first Mentee Training Session and formally launched a Mentoring Guidebook for first-year BDS students, marking the official initiation of its structured mentoring program aimed at strengthening academic support, professional development, and student wellbeing in dental education.
The event served as a continuation of the mentor training conducted earlier by the institute and reflected DIKIOHS’s commitment to creating a supportive academic environment focused on guidance, communication, leadership, and career development for future dental professionals.
The session was hosted by Dr. Fasiha Moin Kazi, Senior Lecturer, while the recitation of the Holy Quran was performed by Mr. Zahid Mustafa, Admin Officer, DIKIOHS.
Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Lubna Memon, Assistant Professor and Core Mentor, introduced students to the concept and significance of mentoring in academic and professional growth. She highlighted how structured mentoring can help students build confidence, improve communication skills, strengthen leadership qualities, and better navigate the challenges of dental education and future clinical practice.
Dr. Sofia Malik, Associate Professor and Mentoring Lead at DIKIOHS, delivered a detailed presentation explaining the mentoring framework, mentor-mentee engagement structure, and objectives of the program. During her session, she also formally launched the Mentoring Guidebook designed to support mentees throughout their academic journey and facilitate meaningful mentor-mentee relationships within the institution.
An informative session on “Core Mentoring Skills” was conducted by Dr. Nooreen Adnan, a member of the Core Mentoring Team, who discussed key mentoring competencies including empathy, professionalism, active listening, effective communication, and maintaining constructive mentor-mentee relationships.
The event also featured an address by Farhan Vakani, Rector of Sindh Institute of Medical Sciences, who delivered an insightful talk on the importance of mentoring in higher education and healthcare training. He emphasized that effective mentoring contributes not only to academic excellence but also to personal development, resilience, and long-term professional success.
Institutional leadership members also addressed the gathering and appreciated the initiative. Dr. Ramla Naz, Vice-Principal, DIMC, encouraged students to actively engage in mentoring activities and described the program as an important step toward promoting a supportive learning culture.
Dr. Khurram Parvez, Vice-Principal, DIKIOHS, underscored the importance of strong guidance and support systems within educational institutions, while Prof. Anwar Ali, Principal, DIKIOHS, acknowledged the efforts of the organizing committee and encouraged students to fully utilize the mentoring platform to enhance both their academic performance and professional confidence.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Sofia Malik, followed by a meet-and-greet session between mentors and mentees aimed at fostering early engagement, collaboration, and trust within the newly established mentoring network.
With enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, and invited guests, the event highlighted DIKIOHS’s broader vision of strengthening mentorship culture, student-centered learning, and professional excellence in dental and healthcare education in Pakistan.
Stay informed, stay alert
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Dental News Pakistan on WhatsApp for real-time updates on healthcare, education, and public safety.
