Research and Development
Prior
to 2010, there was hardly any research publications from Pakistan in the field
of transfusion medicine. The Programme has been
promoting the culture of research and development in the transfusion sector in
Pakistan. In addition to the monthly e-newsletters and Annual Reports of SBTP,
IBTA and WBDD, the Programme also regularly publishes its research work in reputed
international and national research journals. During the past 10 years, the
SBTP got published more than 60 research articles in international journals of
repute with high impact factor. The National
Coordinator, Prof. HA Zaheer and Technical Expert, Usman Waheed were featured
in the directory of ‘Productive Scientists of Pakistan’ published by the
Ministry of Science and Technology.
As
a result of the successful implementation of the project in the last 10 years,
Pakistan has now firmly secured a place on the world map of blood transfusion.
The Programme leadership is frequently invited to represent the country at
international meetings to share the progress of its blood safety systems
reforms. The Programme achievements and scientific studies are also accepted
for presentations in international conferences. And now increasing numbers of
national experts attend international conferences and avail the opportunity by
networking with the international blood transfusion community.
The
Programme has developed very close linkages
with international partners; WHO, ISBT, IFRC, AATM, IBTO, ATMC, IHN, USAID,
UNAIDS, etc. Research collaborations developed with industry partners including
Abbott, Roche, AsahiKasei and GLT, DiaSorin, etc. Many national experts were encouraged,
who started publishing in the field of transfusion medicine in the last few
years.