From classrooms to clinics: Dow welcomes Pakistan’s future dentists

KARACHI: The strength of Pakistan’s healthcare system will ultimately rest on how well today’s students are prepared for tomorrow’s responsibilities. As expectations from medical and dental professionals grow—demanding not only technical expertise but also compassion and ethical judgment—universities are being called upon to shape practitioners who can serve both patients and society with integrity.

With this vision in mind, Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) held its 2026 Orientation Day and White Coat Ceremony for newly enrolled Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students. The occasion marked the formal beginning of their professional journey, symbolizing their transition from learners to future healthcare providers entrusted with public wellbeing.

Proceedings began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and the National Anthem, setting a tone of respect and national responsibility. Addressing the students, Prof. Dr. Nazli Hossain, Vice Chancellor of DUHS, reminded them that dentistry today is not limited to clinical procedures alone. She stressed the importance of empathy, innovation, and leadership in responding to Pakistan’s evolving oral health challenges.

Prof. Dr. Jahan Ara Hasan, Pro Vice Chancellor and Guest of Honor, urged students to make full use of the academic and co-curricular opportunities available to them. She highlighted that professional growth depends not only on textbooks and lectures but also on active engagement, teamwork, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

A central moment of the ceremony was the White Coat Oath, taken collectively by the new students. The pledge underscored core professional values, including ethical conduct, compassion for patients, accountability, and dedication to continuous improvement.

Senior academic leaders introduced students to the structure and strengths of DUHS’s dental institutions. Prof. Imtiaz Ahmed, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, along with Prof. Naresh Kumar, Principal of Dow Dental College, and Prof. Amynah Tariq, Principal of Dow International Dental College, outlined academic expectations, institutional policies, and the distinctive roles of each college within the university framework.

The event was organized by the DIKIOHS administration under the supervision of Prof. Anwar Ali, Dr. Khurram Parvez, and Ms. Hanifa Soofi, with coordination support from Dr. Faiza Amin and Dr. Qaisar. Their efforts ensured a structured and welcoming introduction for the incoming students.

Beyond its ceremonial significance, the White Coat Ceremony reflected a broader national commitment to developing a competent and socially responsible healthcare workforce. By investing in quality education and ethical training, institutions like DUHS aim to prepare future dentists who can contribute meaningfully to public health, professional standards, and national development.

For the new BDS cohort, the ceremony was more than a welcome—it was a reminder that their white coats represent trust, responsibility, and the promise of service. As they begin their academic journey, they carry with them not only personal aspirations, but also the expectations of a healthcare system looking toward a stronger and more resilient future.