RAWALPINDI, JAN 22 (DNA) – The National University of Medical Sciences(NUMS) and National Institute of Health Islamabad (NIH) signed  five year Document of Understanding(DOU) here Friday to strengthen research cooperation  in the development of medical sciences.

The DOU was inked by NUMS Vice Chancellor Lt. Gen. Muhammad Imran Majeed (Retd) and Executive Director  NIH Maj. Gen. AamirIkram at a simple ceremony  at the university secretariat.  Pro-Vice Chancellor Academics Maj. Gen.(Retd) Saleem Ahmed Khan and Pro -Vice Chancellor Admn. Maj.Gen. (Retd)Syed  RezaHamdani were present on the occasion.

In order to promote research , the two national institutions agreed to facilitate exchange of  faculties, scientists and experts for joint research project, said the DOU.

It also provides for cooperation “in exchange of scientific  information books, journals and other relevant technical materials in the field of training , research and technology” in line with policies of  NUMS and NIH. Both the sides agreed to appoint focal persons to monitor  implementation of the programme and prepare annual progress report.

In his brief remarks on the occasion Vice Chancellor NUMS saidNIH hadplayed a pivotal role in the health sector.  Given the devastating impact of the pandemic, health sector ought to be accorded top priority as every sector now was dependent on it, he added.

NUMS  was “mandated to promote and achieve excellence in advanced health education, research and service delivery to eventually run the university health care system,” said the DOU.

Maj. Gen. AamirIkram, after signing the DOU said  it would provide the two institutions  an opportunity to work together and consolidate  their efforts in the medical  research.He said he would focus on brining all stakeholders together and make efforts  to bring international research  for the promotion of the medical and clinical side for the benefit of the country.

He said he wasmaking endeavours to transform  NIH  and bring its standards to the international level.