TAXILA CANTT: Dental College HITEC-IMS has successfully launched its new Leadership Series, bringing together distinguished dental educators and more than 120 participants for an interactive mentorship session designed to prepare the next generation of dental professionals for leadership, innovation and academic excellence.
The inaugural session, titled "Meet the Leaders, Shape the Future," was held recently, and aimed to provide house officers, lecturers, demonstrators, postgraduate trainees and final-year BDS students with direct access to experienced leaders in dentistry who have made significant contributions to academia, research and clinical practice.
Renowned dental leaders share their experiences
The event featured two distinguished speakers:
- Prof. Dr. Bilal Ahmed, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz recipient and Dean, School of Dentistry, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University (SZAMBU)
- Prof. Dr. Abdul Samad, Department of Biomaterials, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Saudi Arabia
Drawing on their extensive academic and professional experience, the speakers discussed leadership, career progression, academic excellence, research, and the importance of continuous professional development in modern dentistry.
The interactive format enabled participants to learn not only from the speakers' professional journeys but also from their practical advice on building successful careers in both academia and clinical practice.
Innovation and research take centre stage
A major focus of the session was the growing role of research and innovation in advancing dental healthcare.
Drawing upon his internationally recognised work in dental materials research, Prof. Dr. Abdul Samad encouraged young dentists to think beyond conventional approaches, embrace innovation and pursue research capable of solving real-world clinical challenges.
He emphasized that scientific curiosity, perseverance and a commitment to excellence are essential qualities that enable researchers to transform ambitious ideas into meaningful scientific discoveries capable of improving patient care.
The discussion also reinforced the importance of evidence-based dentistry and lifelong learning as key drivers of professional growth.
Interactive Q&A engages future dental professionals
The inaugural session concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session that allowed participants to interact directly with the guest speakers.
With more than 120 attendees, including house officers, postgraduate trainees, lecturers, demonstrators and final-year BDS students, the event reflected strong enthusiasm for mentorship and leadership development within Pakistan's dental community.
Participants explored topics ranging from academic career pathways and international opportunities to research productivity, innovation and professional leadership.
Building future leaders in dentistry
The successful launch of the Leadership Series reflects Dental College HITEC-IMS' commitment to creating opportunities that extend beyond conventional classroom education.
By connecting students and early-career dental professionals with accomplished national and international experts, the initiative seeks to cultivate leadership qualities, encourage research, promote innovation and prepare future dentists to contribute meaningfully to Pakistan's evolving healthcare landscape.
The institute hopes the series will continue to inspire young professionals to lead with excellence, embrace lifelong learning and play an active role in shaping the future of dentistry.
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