Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Aug 26: Former Directors of SKIMS, Soura, including its founding Director, Dr. A.K. Nagpal, today emphasized the importance of autonomous growth for the institute, particularly highlighting its success under the “Automisation Model.”
Dr. Nagpal was speaking at the ‘Directors Conclave,’ which featured a roundtable discussion on “SKIMS Legacy and Way Forward.”
He reminisced about his early efforts in developing SKIMS and underscored the significance of autonomous growth similar to institutions like AIIMS New Delhi, PGIMER Chandigarh, SGPGI Lucknow, and other international equivalents.
Dr Nagpal noted that SKIMS thrived due to the “Automisation Model of Public Hospitals,” which has been successfully replicated worldwide in institutions such as Harvard University, Mayo Clinic, and Oxford University.
He expressed hope that this model would position SKIMS as a leader in the healthcare hierarchy of J&K.
Dr. M.S. Khuroo, former Dean & Director of SKIMS, emphasized that the Director of SKIMS should fully utilize its authority to protect the institution’s interests and restore its former glory through dedication and determination.
He advised the administration to recruit top faculty and procure state-of-the-art equipment to provide world-class patient care.
The administrators were asked to brainstorm ways for SKIMS to regain its prominence and compete internationally through advancements in healthcare, research, and academics.
Prof. Mehrajuddin, a distinguished anesthesiologist and longest-serving Director, lamented how SKIMS was envisioned and evolved into a leading institution with significant contributions to healthcare.
Prof. Abdul Hameed Zargar, a noted endocrinologist and former Director, highlighted the staff shortages and increasing patient load.
He urged the current Director to expedite procurement and recruitment processes and utilize the available budget effectively.
Prof. Showkat Ali Zargar, a renowned gastroenterologist with a respected record as Director, stressed that SKIMS should be developed into a Medical University, as originally envisioned.
Dr. A.G. Ahangar, a prominent cardio-thoracic surgeon and former two-time Director, encouraged SKIMS administration to strive to regain its past glory and compete with top international institutions.
Director Dr. M.A. Ganie assured the experts and SKIMS community that he is committed to advancing the institution in clinical research, academics, and patient care.
He promised to meet all deadlines, noting that he has already initiated recruitment and procurement processes and is receiving full cooperation from the government.
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