Hult Prize On Campus Program 2024
The Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC) successfully organized the Hult Prize On Campus program on February 24, 2024. The inauguration was graced by Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Nazli Hossein and Director ORIC Professor Kashif Shafique.
The program attracted over 100 project submissions from students across biotechnology, nutrition, pharmacy, and other disciplines, of which three winners will be announced. The Hult Prize initiative is globally recognized for empowering youth to become social entrepreneurs, and the projects presented this year demonstrated innovative approaches aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Participants proposed solutions addressing issues such as:
- Zero Hunger (SDG 2)
- Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3)
- Quality Education (SDG 4)
- Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7)
- Climate Action (SDG 13)
- Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)
This event provided students with a unique platform to apply their academic knowledge towards solving real-world challenges, nurturing entrepreneurial thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration. It reflects DUHS’s commitment to fostering a new generation of innovators who will contribute to building a sustainable, equitable, and healthier future.
The industry partners included major pharmaceutical companies including Martin Dow, SJ&G, Hilton Pharmaceuticals and Sami Pharma.
8th All Pakistan DUHS–DICE Health Innovation Exhibition
Dow University of Health Sciences, in collaboration with Distinguished Innovations, Collaboration & Entrepreneurship (DICE) Foundation USA, hosted the 8th All Pakistan DUHS–DICE Health Innovation Exhibition, at the DUHS Ojha Campus.
The DICE Foundation USA, a non-profit organization founded by expatriate Pakistanis, has played a pivotal role in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in Pakistan. By creating strong linkages between academia, industry, government, and the Pakistani diaspora, DICE is helping to accelerate knowledge transfer, commercialization, and sustainable development in the country.
This distinguished event, held annually since 2015, provides a unique platform for students, researchers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, policymakers, and expatriates to showcase health-related innovations. The primary objectives include:
- Strengthening academia-industry linkages in the healthcare sector.
- Motivating youth to develop innovative, practical, and technology-driven health solutions.
- Embedding a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in Pakistan’s national framework.
- Enhancing Pakistan’s global image as a hub of healthcare innovation.
The exhibition is closely aligned with key SDGs, including:
- Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3)
- Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8)
- Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9)
- Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10)
- Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)
By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the exhibition fosters a sustainable ecosystem where research, technology, and entrepreneurship converge to address healthcare challenges at both national and global levels. The Industry partners includes Bosch Pharma, Martin Dow, Getz Pharma and many other government and non governmental organizations.
Conclusion
Both the Hult Prize on Campus Program 2024 and the DUHS–DICE Health Innovation Exhibition highlight Dow University of Health Sciences’ commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through youth engagement, research, innovation, and partnerships. These initiatives not only empower the next generation of leaders but also position DUHS as a center of excellence for sustainable development in healthcare and beyond.