HSA Named Global Center of Excellence in Public Health by ADB and CAREC

ISLAMABAD: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Programme have named the Health Services Academy (HSA), Islamabad, as one of just five Global Public Health Education Centers of Excellence (CoEs) worldwide.

This recognition highlights HSA’s outstanding role in public health education, high-quality research, and commitment to advancing regional health priorities.

Prof. Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor of HSA, described the designation as a historic achievement for Pakistan’s public health and medical education sector.

“Becoming a Center of Excellence is not only an honor for HSA but also a reflection of Pakistan’s growing leadership in the field of global public health. It places us at the forefront of education, research, and policy coordination across CAREC’s 11 member countries,” he said.

The new Centers of Excellence network will promote collaboration among CAREC nations by creating advanced training and research opportunities, aligning health standards and curricula, and boosting regional capacity to address emerging health challenges.

As Pakistan’s top public health institution, HSA will play a central role in joint research, professional training, and cross-border knowledge exchange, while also shaping policy recommendations and building health workforce skills across the region.

Sofia Shakil, Director of ADB’s Human and Social Development Sector Office, congratulated HSA on the milestone, stating:

“This designation shows ADB and CAREC’s trust in Pakistan’s capacity to contribute effectively to global and regional health strategies. We are confident that HSA will be instrumental in driving the CAREC health agenda and in strengthening inclusive, resilient healthcare systems.”

Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan added that the recognition would open up new opportunities for international collaboration, partnerships, and research funding, further strengthening Pakistan’s role in the global public health landscape.

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“This is not just a success for HSA—it is a moment of national pride. It confirms Pakistan’s readiness to lead in shaping the future of public health education globally,” he remarked.