Karachi University launches first-ever HIV, Hepatitis screening Programme for students, staff

Dr Hassan Ouj, the programme was launched following approval from the university’s Registrar Office

KARACHI: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-July 16th, 2026) The University of Karachi has launched its first-ever HIV and hepatitis screening programme for students and employees, marking a significant step towards promoting preventive healthcare and early disease detection on campus.

The initiative was formally approved by the Communicable Disease Control (CDC) Sindh, which has also deployed a designated team to supervise the screening and awareness campaign at the university’s medical clinic.

According to Dr Hassan Ouj, the programme was launched following approval from the university’s Registrar Office. He said more than 20 students and staff members have already undergone voluntary screening for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.

Dr Ouj said the campaign offers free and voluntary screening alongside awareness sessions aimed at educating participants about the importance of early diagnosis and disease prevention.

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He explained that the Primary objective of the initiative is to ensure timely detection of infectious diseases and help prevent their spread. Early diagnosis of HIV and hepatitis, he said, can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of transmission.

Dr Ouj also encouraged students and university employees to participate in the screening programme without hesitation, stressing that there should be no stigma associated with getting tested.

He added that individuals diagnosed with HIV through the programme would be provided free medication by the Sindh government, ensuring access to timely treatment and medical care.

The university officials said the screening campaign would continue as part of ongoing efforts to improve public health awareness and create a healthier campus environment through preventive healthcare measures.