A special session took place at the National University of Modern Languages (NUML), Islamabad, marking an important step in international collaboration for mental health and cancer care. Organised by the Department of Psychology, the event welcomed Professor Nusrat Husain from the University of Manchester, UK.
During his visit, Professor Husain met with NUML’s Rector, Major General (R) Shahid Mahmood Kayani (M)HI, along with faculty members, students, and senior university officials. He spoke about the urgent need for mental health support for women with breast cancer. In Pakistan, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, affecting one in every nine and accounting for around 40% of all female cancer cases. Professor Husain presented details of the “Moving on ABC” research project (NIHR205561), which focuses on helping breast cancer survivors regain emotional strength and improve their mental wellbeing.
He was accompanied by Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL) team members, including Dr. Tayyeba Kiran, Mrs. Lubna Khan, Shamsa Choudhry, and Adnan Chauhan. The session highlighted the importance of research partnerships, student and faculty training, and the need to adapt global mental health solutions to local needs. Professor Husain stressed that such improvements are possible when institutions across borders work together. He also talked about the role young people and students can play in advancing public health.
Two more research projects were also discussed. One focuses on supporting burn survivors (NIHR203082), addressing a serious problem in Pakistan where burn injuries cause high mortality. The second, the ACROSS cardiac rehabilitation project (NIHR205540), aims to help cardiac patients manage their recovery closer to home. According to the World Health Organization, Pakistan ranks 30th globally in deaths caused by heart disease, with nearly 18% of the population affected.
These projects reflect a shared vision for healthcare that is compassionate, practical, and rooted in evidence. The event was attended by senior NUML officials including the Director General, Director HR, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences Dr. Neelo, and departmental heads. A special mention goes to Professor Dr. Anila Maqsood, Head of the Psychology Department, whose leadership was key to making this collaboration possible.
