Federal Ombudsperson Fauzia Viqar visited Nishtar Medical University to emphasize the critical importance of enhancing institutional protections for healthcare staff and academics. During her visit, she met with Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mehnaz Khan Khakwani as well as senior doctors and healthcare professionals to discuss measures aimed at strengthening internal complaint systems, promoting awareness of workplace protection laws, and ensuring safe environments that uphold the dignity of all employees.
Highlighting the necessity of robust institutional mechanisms, Viqar underscored that creating secure working conditions for healthcare workers and academic personnel is not merely optional but a fundamental requirement. She emphasized the significance of proactive systems that can effectively address workers’ concerns, complaints, and rights violations.
During the discussion, the Federal Ombudsperson and the university leadership examined the current internal complaint resolution processes at Nishtar Medical University. Both parties agreed on the importance of enhancing transparency, responsiveness, and the accessibility of complaint-handling channels to encourage trust and accountability within the organization.
Additionally, the meeting touched upon raising awareness among employees regarding existing workplace protection laws. Viqar stressed the value of regular training programs to educate medical and academic staff about their rights and responsibilities, facilitating an organizational culture that actively discourages violations and promotes respectful working relationships.
Ensuring safety and dignity was also identified as a key priority throughout medical institutions and universities. Officials concluded with a strong commitment toward implementing comprehensive measures to safeguard all healthcare and academic staff against harassment, discrimination, and misconduct, thereby fostering healthier and more productive environments.
