iHope Batch 35: Learning, Service, and Purpose in Action

iHope Batch 35 brought together 67 student volunteers from schools across Karachi for a week-long journey of learning, reflection, and service at the Indus Hospital and Health Network (IHHN). The program is designed to introduce young volunteers to the realities of the healthcare landscape while nurturing empathy, leadership, and social responsibility. It offers a thoughtfully curated mix of hands-on training, awareness sessions, and personal development.

Participating students represented a diverse range of institutions, including Happy Home O Level School, The Intellect School, Alpha College, Haque Academy, Dawood Public School, Bay View High – Heritage Campus, Foundation Public School, The Indus Academy, Whales College, DHACSS Phase IV, Vali Asr Comprehensive School, Cedar College, Avicenna School, Hira Institute of Sciences, DHACSS Seaview, Reflections School, The Generations’ School, Usman Public School, Nakhlah (Kashmir Road), Education Bay School, BVS Parsi High School, and DHACSS College for Women.

The program began with an orientation session, during which participants were introduced to the mission and values of IHHN, as well as the scope of free healthcare services it provides. This was followed by an extensive hospital tour, giving students a closer look at key service areas, including the Physical Rehabilitation Center, Blood Transfusion Services, Oncology Unit, Play Area, and the Indus Kay Sitaray School to facilitate education of pediatric oncology patients. The tour helped participants understand how different departments work together to deliver holistic and compassionate care.

Throughout the week, volunteers took part in life-saving skills training, including CPR and First Aid sessions. These hands-on workshops equipped them with essential emergency response skills and reinforced the importance of preparedness in critical situations.

Patient interaction remained a core element of the iHope experience. Volunteers engaged with patients, listened to their stories, and reflected on their journeys, learning to approach every interaction with empathy, respect, and sensitivity. A dedicated session with the psychosocial team further guided students on how to communicate compassionately and support patients with dignity.

The batch also emphasized personal and professional development. Volunteers attended career guidance sessions, including resume building and interview preparation with the HR team, helping them sharpen skills that will support their future academic and professional pursuits. A special storytelling session with Khurram Khan encouraged participants to transform real experiences into impactful narratives that amplify meaningful stories.

Mental well-being and self-reflection were also highlighted through a session on mental health and gratitude by Dr. Imran Yusuf, reminding volunteers of the importance of emotional awareness and appreciation in both personal and professional life.

The program concluded with a closing ceremony, where all 67 volunteers were awarded certificates and letters in recognition of their dedication and participation. The ceremony marked not just the end of the batch but the beginning of each volunteer’s ongoing journey with empathy, service, and purpose.

iHope Batch 35 stood as a powerful reminder that when young people are given the right exposure, guidance, and opportunities, they can grow into compassionate changemakers who contribute meaningfully to society.