Research Centre named after Pakistani Scientist at Hunan University of Medicine, China

Hunan University of Medicine (HNUM) in China has honoured Pakistani scientist Professor Dr Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary by naming its newly-inaugurated research building after him.

This gesture acknowledges his significant contributions to medical sciences and highlights the strengthening ties between Pakistan and China in scientific collaboration. The naming of the new research building after Professor Choudhary marks a historic milestone as he is the first Pakistani scientist to receive such an honour at HNUM.

Professor Choudhary has played a pivotal role in establishing Sino-Pak research centres, which have been essential in fostering collaborative scientific projects. He has been recognised with numerous prestigious awards, including the Mustafa (Peace Be Upon Him) Prize and various Civil Awards (Hilal-i-Imtiaz, Sitara-i-Imtiaz, and Tamgha-i-Imtiaz).

In 2022, he also received the Friendship Award from China, as well as the Golden Silkball Friendship Award. Currently, he serves as Vice President of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) for Central & South Asia and is a Fellow of several distinguished scientific organisations, including the Royal Society of Chemistry in London.

The new facility spans 13,000 square feet and will accommodate 17 full-time researchers focused on advancing joint scientific projects. According to a press release, the establishment of this research centre is aimed at enhancing collaborative efforts between the two countries.

Founded in 1912 by renowned medical educator Yan Fuqing, HNUM is recognised as one of China’s leading public medical universities. It operates under the Hunan Provincial Department of Education and comprises two campuses, Jinxi and Jinhai, covering a total area of 945,300 square metres.

With a dedicated faculty of 4,642 and 14,425 full-time students, HNUM offers 20 comprehensive undergraduate and graduate medical programmes.