ZAFAR MIRZA

Dr. Zafar Mirza is a prominent Pakistani public health expert and former Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on National Health Services, Regulations, and Coordination. With extensive experience in public health policy and administration, Dr. Mirza has played a significant role in shaping healthcare strategies and addressing health crises both nationally and internationally. Born in Pakistan, he pursued his early education and holds a medical degree (MBBS) from Rawalpindi Medical College. Furthering his education, he earned a Master's degree in Public Health (MPH) from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, which equipped him with the skills and knowledge to tackle complex public health challenges.

Dr. Mirza's career spans various roles in public health, both in Pakistan and internationally. Before his appointment as Special Assistant to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Dr. Mirza served as Director of Health System Development at the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean. In this capacity, he was responsible for supporting member states in strengthening their health systems and improving health outcomes. As Special Assistant to the Prime Minister from April 2019 to July 2020, Dr. Mirza was at the forefront of Pakistan's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He led efforts to enhance the country's healthcare infrastructure, implement effective public health measures, and coordinate the national response to the health crisis. His leadership was instrumental in the development and dissemination of COVID-19 guidelines and policies aimed at curbing the spread of the virus.

Dr. Mirza's work with WHO, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, involved developing and implementing health policies, strengthening health systems, and promoting universal health coverage. His contributions have been vital in addressing public health issues such as infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health emergencies. Throughout his career, Dr. Mirza has been an advocate for health equity and access to essential medicines. He has worked on various initiatives to improve pharmaceutical policies and access to affordable, quality medicines in low- and middle-income countries. His advocacy efforts have focused on reducing health disparities and ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the care they need.

Dr. Mirza has authored numerous research papers and articles on public health, health systems, and pharmaceutical policies. His work is widely recognized and cited in the field of public health, reflecting his deep expertise and commitment to improving health outcomes globally. Dr. Zafar Mirza's contributions to public health have been recognized both nationally and internationally. He is respected for his dedication to health equity, his strategic vision in health policy, and his effective leadership during health crises. He is known for his commitment to public service and his passion for health advocacy. He continues to be involved in various health initiatives and remains a prominent voice in public health discussions.

Dr. Zafar Mirza's legacy lies in his significant contributions to public health policy, his leadership in managing health crises, and his advocacy for health equity. His work has had a lasting impact on health systems in Pakistan and beyond, and he remains an influential figure in the field of public health.

Reference: https://www.who.int/director-general/who-headquarters-leadership-team/dr-zafar-mirza-special-assistant-to-the-prime-minister-of-pakistan-on-national-health-services-regulations-and-coordination