October 16, 2025, Lahore
An inspiring pre-conference session on “The Importance of the First 1000 Days of a Child’s Life” was held at Indus Hospital, Jubilee Town on 16th October 2025. This opening session sets the tone for ICON–26, uniting passionate advocates, clinicians, and public health experts dedicated to improving maternal and child health outcomes.
The engaging day-long program featured insightful sessions led by the PAHCHAAN and Community Health Directorate (CHD)–IHHN teams, focusing on maternal health, early childhood development, and responsive caregiving practices.
Dr. Dur-e-Nishat, Clinical Lead, CHD–IHHN, set the stage with an introduction to the program’s objectives, followed by a session on “The Importance of Maternal Health” by Dr. Tahmina Yasin, Medical Lead, PAHCHAAN. Whereas, Dr. Mohammad Moaz, Child Specialist, PAHCHAAN, emphasized how early nutrition, nurturing care, and responsive interaction during the first 1,000 days shape a child’s lifelong well-being.
In an insightful session, Dr. Naeem Zafar, Child Specialist & CEO of PAHCHAAN, spoke about adolescent health and preparing for motherhood, emphasizing antenatal care, breastfeeding techniques, and infant nutrition. Later, Ms. Faria Rehman and Ms. Neelam, Clinical Psychologists from PAHCHAAN, led thoughtful discussions on the role of resilient mothers and the emotional and social well-being of children.
The day concluded with an interactive Q&A and closing remarks by Dr. Naeem Zafar, reaffirming the commitment to transform learning into action for healthier mothers and children.
The collaboration between PAHCHAAN and CHD–IHHN stood as a testament to what can be achieved when compassion meets knowledge: healthier beginnings, stronger families, and brighter futures.