OWSD-Pakistan Bio-Safe Conference: Navigating Biorisk Management

OWSD Pakistan National Chapter Spearheads Groundbreaking Biosafety Conference to Boost Women's Role in Science and Safeguard Public Health

The OWSD Pakistan National Chapter is set to host a pioneering conference, titled "OWSD Conference on Biosafety: Navigating Biorisk Management in Pakistan," aimed at addressing and enhancing biosafety measures in the country. This event, scheduled for December 29-30, 2023, at the Dr. A. Q. Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (KIBGE), University of Karachi will bring together renowned experts, researchers, and policymakers to promote dialogue and collaboration in tackling the intricate challenges of biorisk management.

Keynote Speakers:

1. Prof Dr. Eurm Khan:

National Biosafety Framework - The Missing Link in Biorisk Management in Pakistan

With a wealth of experience and knowledge in the field, Prof Dr. Khan will shed light on the current gaps and the imperative need for a comprehensive framework to mitigate biorisks at the national level.

2. Ms. Qandeel Zehra Zameer

Environmental Safety: The Essential Initiatives to Achieve Excellence in Pakistan

Ms. Zameer a leading figure in environmental safety, will take the stage to highlight the significance of sustainable practices and responsible policies in safeguarding both human health and the environment.

3. Ms. Shahida Qureshi:

Risk Assessment - Biorisk Management in Laboratory Environment

Ms. Shahida Qureshi, an expert in risk assessment, will delve into the intricacies of biorisk management within laboratory environments. Her keynote address will explore methodologies, best practices, and challenges associated with assessing and managing biorisks in the context of laboratories, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the unique risks posed in these settings.

4. Dr. Huma Baqai:

Beyond the Lab - Exploring Socio-Political Dimensions and Ethical Challenges in Biorisk Management

Dr. Huma Baqai will wrap up the conference with an enlightening keynote address that goes beyond the laboratory setting. Dr. Baqai will explore the socio-political dimensions and ethical challenges associated with biorisk management, providing valuable insights into the broader implications of biosafety measures on society and addressing the ethical considerations surrounding these practices.

Preconference Workshop:

An essential prelude to the conference, the OWSD Preconference Hands-On Workshop on Effective Biological Risk Mitigation Training Strategies is scheduled to take place at the Dr. A. Q. Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (KIBGE), University of Karachi, on December 28, 2023. A distinguished panel of international experts will lead sessions on various aspects of biosafety, offering valuable insights and practical knowledge.

Featured Speakers:

1. Sean G Kaufman

CEO and Founding Partner, Safer Behaviours

Master Trainer, BioPrism

Sean G Kaufman, a pioneer in biosafety, sheds light on the often overlooked contributions of women in biosafety, highlighting their indispensable role as true heroes in safeguarding public health in Pakistan.

2. Prof. Dr. Saeed Khan

Head, Molecular Pathology, Dow University of Health Sciences

President, Pakistan Biological Safety Association (PBSA)

Prof. Dr. Saeed Khan, as the President of PBSA, will provide a comprehensive overview of strategies for effective biological risk mitigation training, drawing on his extensive experience in molecular pathology.

3. Mr. Furqan Kabir

Manager, Infectious Diseases Research Laboratory, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University

Global Mentor, International Federation of Biosafety Associations

Mr. Furqan Kabir, a Global Mentor, will share insights into the critical process of risk assessment, leveraging his role as a manager in infectious diseases research.

4. Dr. Syed Zulfiqar Ali Naqvi

Associate Professor and Consultant, Department of Molecular Pathology, Liaquat National Hospital

Dr. Syed Zulfiqar Ali Naqvi will lead an interactive session, drawing on his expertise as an associate professor, guiding participants in the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in biosafety.

5. Ms. Aneeta Hotwani

Senior Manager, Infectious Diseases Research Laboratory, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University

Ms. Aneeta Hotwani, as a Senior Manager, will delve into the intricacies of infectious substance transportation, sharing valuable expertise from her work in the field of pediatrics and child health.

6. Dr. Maria Zahid

Molecular Biologist, Department of Molecular Pathology, Dow University of Health Sciences

Dr. Maria Zahid, a Molecular Biologist, will address the critical aspect of waste and spill management, providing insights into best practices for maintaining a safe laboratory environment.

Collaborative Efforts:

The OWSD Secretariat, in collaboration with the Pakistan Biological Safety Association (PBSA) and the National Academy of Young Scientists (NAYS) Pakistan, has generously provided resources for the conference.

These organizations unite to champion a biosafety culture in Pakistan, with special appreciation extended to the Dr. A. Q. Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (KIBGE), University of Karachi, and its Vice Chancellor and Director General (Acting) - Dr. Khalid Mehmood Iraqi, for their invaluable support in organizing the conference and providing essential resources.

Anticipated Outcomes:

The OWSD Conference on Biosafety is poised to be a pivotal event, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in biosafety. Attendees will benefit from the experiences of distinguished keynote speakers and engage in dialogue to foster collaboration in navigating the complex landscape of biorisk management in Pakistan.

For Registration Contact on: 

owsdpakistanchapter@gmail.com