The French Medical Institute for Mothers and Children (FMIC) has been organizing annual International Scientific Conferences and Quality Conventions since 2011, aimed at presenting and promoting the latest research and innovations in healthcare services. These events provide a platform for the exchange of knowledge, experience, and research findings among healthcare professionals, doctors, and researchers from various institutions.
The organization of these conferences reflects FMIC's continued commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare services, enhancing the professional capacity of healthcare workers, and strengthening Afghanistan's health system. This year's conference was held under the theme “Transformation in Healthcare: Education, Innovation, Quality, and Sustainability," and hosted national and international guests.
The event was graced by the presence of His Excellency Alhaj Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, Minister of Public Health of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan; Dr. Qari Mohammaduddin, Advisor to the Office of the Administrative Deputy of the Prime Minister; Dr. Najmuddin Najm, Chair of FMIC Board, and Coordinator of the Aga Khan Development Network in Afghanistan; Dr. Eric Cheysson and Dr. Anthony Dutemple from the La Chaîne de l'Espoir, Dr. Gijs Walraven from the Aga Khan Development Network; senior officials from the Ministry of Public Health; FMIC's leadership and management teams; and around 400 participants (15 online and 390 in person) from academic, medical, and research institutions inside and outside Afghanistan.
The program began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran by Dr. Najibullah Safi, followed by a welcome speech from Dr. Najm, who presented FMIC's key achievements. He stated that since its establishment in 2006, FMIC has treated over two million patients and provided professional training to more than 4,000 healthcare workers. To date, 92 medical specialists (77 male and 15 female) have graduated from FMIC's Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME) program, while 46 male and 15 female doctors are currently enrolled.
He further noted that FMIC has earned international certifications, including ISO and SafeCare, and has commenced the construction of a large educational and medical complex focusing on cardiology, oncology, and internal medicine. Dr. Najm expressed gratitude for the continuous support from the Ministry of Public Health and FMIC's partner institutions.
His Excellency Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, Minister of Public Health of the Islamic Emarat of Afghanistan, delivered an inspiring speech, commending FMIC for organizing such an impactful scientific event. He emphasized that holding such conferences is essential for capacity building and improving the knowledge and skills of Afghanistan's healthcare workforce. The Minister reiterated the Ministry's focus on improving the quality of healthcare services at all three levels — primary, secondary, and tertiary — and highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen the system.
Referring to global advancements in healthcare, he stated:
“Afghanistan is in the early stages of this journey, but by leveraging modern technologies and engaging Afghan professionals returning from abroad, we can move toward self-sufficiency and regional competitiveness."
Following this, Qari Mohammaduddin, Advisor to the Administrative Deputy of the Prime Minister's Office, delivered a message on behalf of His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister's Office, emphasizing that the science of medicine holds a noble place in Islam — second only to faith and conviction — and that Islam strongly encourages the pursuit of medical knowledge.
Representing the Chain of Hope Foundation, Dr. Anthony Dutemple expressed his appreciation to FMIC for organizing the conference and bringing together healthcare experts and partner organizations. He stated:
“Our ultimate goal is to ensure universal access to quality healthcare. We are proud to collaborate with FMIC in offering hope and free medical services to Afghan mothers and children."
He added that the organization has treated over 30,000 patients from various provinces and reaffirmed their commitment that no underprivileged patient will be left untreated.
In the keynote address, Dr. Najibullah Safi emphasized that “Transformation in Healthcare" rests on four key pillars:
Professional and responsible education,
Responsible innovation,
Quality in service delivery, and
Equitable and sustainable access to healthcare.
He further underlined the importance of environmental, social, and financial sustainability in all healthcare institutions, calling for the promotion of Green Health Services — including the use of renewable energy, waste reduction, and the creation of healthier environments.
Before the start of the scientific paper presentations, Dr. Gijs Walraven, Director of Health at the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), shared a report highlighting the remarkable growth of participation since 2011. This year, 181 research papers were submitted from Afghanistan and abroad, out of which 130 were selected for presentation — 54 oral and 76 poster sessions. Notably, submissions were also received from Yemen, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
In the first scientific presentation, Dr. Mirza Mohammad Najarabi, Head of the Orthopedic Surgery Department, shared his research on the treatment of congenital deformities in children — a unique service provided exclusively at FMIC, which received high praise from the participants.
