Atomic Energy Cancer Hospital (AECH), Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology Lahore (INMOL) has launched its first-ever volunteer programme bringing together young students for the noble cause of supporting cancer patients while nurturing a culture of compassion, community service, and civic responsibility among the youth.
The inauguration ceremony of the volunteer programME was held at AECH INMOL and was attended by Member Science, Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Dr Shakeel Abbas Rofi; Director INMOL, Dr Arzoo Fatima Saleem; faculty members; medical professionals and representatives from educational institutions.
A carefully selected group of 22 students from various schools and colleges was inducted into the inaugural batch of volunteers. During a structured month-long engagement, the students will assist patients and their attendants, facilitate navigation within the hospital, and support various patient-centered services aimed at enhancing the overall healthcare experience.
Addressing the ceremony, Dr Shakeel Abbas Rofi highlighted the importance of involving young people in meaningful community service initiatives. He announced that the program is envisioned as a pilot project that will eventually be replicated across 21 AECHs being run by PAEC nationwide to further improve patient facilitation and strengthen community participation in healthcare services.
“The volunteer program reflects our commitment to making healthcare more patient-friendly while providing young people with valuable opportunities to contribute to society,” he said and added, “We aim to expand this initiative across our cancer hospital network so that patients and their families receive timely guidance and support throughout their treatment journey.”
Director AECH INMOL, Dr Arzoo Fatima Saleem underscored the educational and professional value of the initiative for participating students. She noted that direct exposure to a healthcare environment would help develop empathy, communication skills, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of community service.
“The experience gained through this program will not only benefit patients but will also leave a lasting impact on the personal and professional development of these young volunteers,” she said and added that certificates of appreciation would be awarded to all participants upon successful completion of their service.
The ceremony concluded with Dr. Shakeel Abbas Rofi distributing specialized volunteer kits among the selected students, officially marking the beginning of their volunteer service at the hospital.
AECH INMOL is one of PAEC’s leading cancer care institutions in the country, providing comprehensive diagnostic, treatment, and research services. The hospital remains committed to enhancing patient care through innovation, community engagement, and initiatives that promote social responsibility among future generations.
It is to mention here that according to the Economic Survey of Pakistan 2025-26, PAEC leads cancer care services in the country by treating 80% of the cancer patients with its nationwide life-saving network of 21 Atomic Energy Cancer Hospitals.