IHHN Hosts SIOP Asia Meet-Up Round 2 to Strengthen Pediatric Oncology Collaboration in Karachi

The Department of Pediatric Hematology & Oncology (PHO), Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN), successfully organized the SIOP Asia Meet-Up Round 2 on 17th December 2025 at Indus Hospital Karachi (Korangi Campus)—continuing a growing collaborative initiative following the inaugural meet-up held earlier at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi. The event brought together a vibrant community of pediatric oncology professionals of Karachi united by a shared vision: improving outcomes for children with cancer through global collaboration and locally driven action.

The meet-up aimed to raise awareness about the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP), encourage professional membership, and strengthen regional networks aligned with international standards of childhood cancer care.

The session opened on a reflective note with a recitation of the Holy Quran by Dr. Syed Ahmer Hamid, Consultant Pediatric Oncologist IHHN, setting a tone of purpose and unity. Dr. Farah Bashir, SIOP Asia Ambassador & Consultant Pediatric Oncologist (AKUH), was the first speaker and introduced SIOP’s mission, emphasizing how collective effort and active membership can transform pediatric oncology care in the region. She was followed by Dr. Muhammad Rafie Raza, Consultant Pediatric Oncologist IHHN, who walked participants through the process of obtaining SIOP membership and shared how its educational resources, scholarship opportunities, and global collaborations can support professional growth in pediatric oncology.

Personal journeys brought the mission to life as Dr. Neelum Tahirkheli and Dr. Anushe Mohsin shared their recent experiences of securing SIOP conference scholarships, inspiring participants with stories of professional growth and global exposure. Dr. Bilal Mazhar Qureshi, Radiation Oncologist at AKUH, highlighted the importance of academic publications for visibility on international platforms and opportunities to join and contribute meaningfully to SIOP Working Groups based on regional experience. Dr. Shamvil Ashraf, Executive Director Medical Services at IHHN, further enriched the session by sharing his long-standing SIOP journey and professional insights.

With the participation of 40 dedicated pediatric oncology professionals, the meet-up concluded with motivating closing remarks by Dr. Sadia Imran Head of Department of Department of PHO, reinforcing the power of collaboration and sustained engagement with SIOP Network to shape a promising future for children with cancer in our region.