DUHS bids ‘warm farewell’ to Vice Chancellor Dr Saeed Quraishy as leadership transition begins

 

Professor Jehan Ara Hasan takes over as acting vice chancellor after Dr Saeed Quraishy's tenure, described as one of "visionary leadership," "institutional growth," and "pioneering healthcare initiatives."

IV Report

KARACHI: The Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) has entered a new chapter of its journey today (April 29), as the institution begins operating under an acting vice chancellor following the departure of Professor Dr Mohammad Saeed Quraishy, who completed his second consecutive four-year tenure as vice chancellor on April 28.

According to a notification issued by the Sindh government's Universities and Boards Department, Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Jehan Ara Hasan, a Meritorious Professor, will assume the "look-after" charge of the vice chancellor's office effective on April 29. She will continue in this acting capacity until a regular vice chancellor is appointed by the controlling authority upon recommendation by the designated search committee.

Professor Dr Mohammad Saeed Quraishy, who first assumed the vice chancellorship in 2017, leaves behind a legacy of visionary leadership and institutional advancement, widely recognised by the DUHS faculty, staff, and broader academic community. “He knew how to select the right individual for the right task and trusted them with responsibilities, rarely withdrawing the delegation of power,” observed a senior official from DUHS's Planning and Development Wing.

Marking the end of his remarkable tenure, a farewell ceremony was organised by DUHS on April 23 at the Muin Auditorium of Dow Medical College (DMC), which witnessed a full-house gathering of faculty members, administrative officers, students, and distinguished guests.

In his tribute, Sindh Higher Education Commission (SHEC) Chairman Professor Dr Tariq Rafi lauded Dr Quraishy's administrative skills, highlighting, “He mastered the art of using precise language, a testament to his sharp administrative acumen.”
Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Nazli Hossain remarked that Dr Quraishy was a leader who empowered his team members while leading from behind the scenes, fostering an environment of trust and capability.

Professor Dr Jehan Ara Hasan praised Dr Quraishy's unprecedented contribution to public sector healthcare, stating, “He introduced healthcare facilities that were previously unimaginable in the public domain.” Similarly, Principal of Dow Medical College, Professor Dr Saba Sohail, recalled how Dr Quraishy's advice on administrative affairs taught faculty members to shoulder new and greater responsibilities with confidence.

Principal of Dow International Medical College, Professor Dr Iftikhar Ahmed, echoed the sentiments of many by saying, “Professor Quraishy is an exemplary leader whose vision, hard work, and integrity elevated DUHS to new heights. His mentorship allowed everyone to polish their skills and perform at their best for the benefit of the institution. The path he charted will continue to serve as a beacon for future generations.”

Among the notable attendees were former provincial health minister Dr Saad Khalid Niaz, who also addressed the audience, alongside DUHS Registrar Ashar Afaq, Professor Mushtaq, Professor Sajida Qureshi, Professor Dr Tanseer Ahmed, Professor Khalid Mahmood, Professor Muhammad Munir Quraishy, Professor Sumbul Shamim, former DUHS Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Sarah Qazi, and Dr Sameer Qureshi.

Addressing the audience, Dr Quraishy reflected on the milestones achieved during his leadership, including the establishment of the Dow Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Sindh Infectious Disease Hospital — both pioneering healthcare institutions in Pakistan. He emphasised that the realisation of these ambitious projects was the result of collective teamwork rather than the effort of any one individual.

“A true leader is one who transforms the weaknesses of his team into their greatest strengths,” Dr Quraishy remarked. Expressing deep gratitude, he said, “It has been a privilege to lead this prestigious institution. Dow University does not belong to any one individual; it belongs to everyone, and its success is the product of collective endeavors.”

He further praised the relentless dedication of the university's faculty, administrative staff, and students, noting, “We dreamed together, we planned together, and we turned those dreams into reality.” Dr Quraishy concluded his farewell address by thanking all those who supported his vision and leadership throughout his tenure.

The ceremony ended on an emotional note, with the unveiling of a portrait of Dr Quraishy, presented to him by DUHS staff and officers as a token of appreciation for his lasting contributions to the university.

Photos courtesy: DUHS