LAHORE: The 10th Pakistan Association of Orthodontists (PAO) Conference 2024 concluded on a high note at the Rashid Latif Medical Complex, Lahore, under the banner “Smile Beyond Borders: Global Orthodontic Perspectives.” This landmark two-day event brought together leading dental professionals, educators, and experts, showcasing significant advancements in orthodontic knowledge and practice.
Dental News was privileged to facilitate this international event as the official media partner, reinforcing its commitment to spotlighting pivotal moments within the dental community.
Day 1: Setting the stage for collaborative growth
The conference commenced with an inspiring inaugural session attended by distinguished guests, including Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Khalid Masood Gondal, Vice Chancellor of Fatima Jinnah Medical University and President of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP). Prof. Gondal's address highlighted the essential role of collaborative efforts in advancing healthcare, commending PAO for its critical contributions to orthodontic progress in Pakistan.
Dr. Shabbir Hussain, President of PAO, welcomed attendees and expressed deep gratitude for the impressive participation. He underscored PAO’s commitment to advocacy, innovation, and the exchange of knowledge. Prof. Ambreen Afzal, Patron of the Conference, Prof. Muhammad Ilyas, Chairman of the Scientific Committee, Dr. Ahmad Shamim, General Secretary of PAO, and other notable figures such as Dr. Nauman Sadiq, Sr. Vice President, and Dr. Usman Ghani, Finance Secretary, also graced the event.
The inaugural day featured a host of influential figures, including Madam Sabahat, CEO of Rashid Latif Medical and Dental College, and principals of key dental institutions such as Prof. Dr. Nazia Yazdani (Rashid Latif Dental College), Prof. Dr. Qasim Saeed (CMH Dental College), Prof. Samir Qazi (LMDC Lahore), Prof. Irfan ul Haq (Head of Orthodontics, RLDC), Prof. Ulfat Bashir (Islamic International Dental College Islamabad), and Prof. Haroon Qazi (IMDC Islamabad). Renowned orthodontic experts such as Prof. Saad Asad, Prof. Rozina Kaleem, and Prof. Mubasir Fida from Aga Khan Hospital Karachi further enriched the event with their insights.
Workshops on the first day were a major draw, engaging participants with hands-on learning experiences. Key workshops included the Startup Showdown, Dental Olympics, Leadership Training Program, Career Counseling, and Dental Photography. These sessions facilitated active participation, practical skill-building, and interactive learning.
Madam Sabahat expressed her appreciation for the event, stating, “Thank you to all participants, speakers, and organizers for making this conference successful.” The robust lineup of activities underscored the event’s dedication to nurturing professional growth and networking within the orthodontic community.
Day 2: Scientific excellence and memorable experiences
The second day of the conference continued the momentum, emphasizing scientific learning and community building. Attendees were treated to a series of high-level scientific sessions, where speakers presented innovative research and shared critical insights into evolving orthodontic practices. These sessions showcased cutting-edge techniques and fostered a rich environment for discussion and exchange of ideas among participants.
A notable highlight of the second day was the presentation of shields to the distinguished speakers in recognition of their invaluable contributions. This gesture reinforced the conference’s spirit of acknowledgment and celebration of excellence in the field.
Adding a unique cultural experience to the event, international speakers visited the Ganda Singh Border. This visit not only provided a deeper connection to the local culture but also emphasized the theme “Smile Beyond Borders,” encapsulating the conference’s vision of uniting global perspectives.
The 10th PAO Conference 2024 concluded as a resounding success, setting a benchmark for future gatherings. It underscored the significance of continuous professional development, knowledge sharing, and fostering connections that transcend geographical boundaries. Dental News is honored to have been the media partner, bringing this impactful event to the forefront of the dental community and reaffirming its commitment to supporting advancements in dental health and orthodontics.