THE GROWTH OF RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS IN HEALTH SCIENCES IN PAKISTAN OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS

Abstract

Health sciences research in Pakistan has grown substantially due to academic reforms, international collaborations, and institutional initiatives like the NRPU and the Pakistan Research Repository. Between 2010 and 2019, publications rose by 300%, with over half in impact-factor journals, enhancing global visibility and citation impact.^1,2 The Higher Education Commission (HEC) and increased ties with the USA, UK, and China have been pivotal ³. However, challenges such as limited funding, political instability, and insufficient infrastructure remain major barriers. The discontinuation of NRPU funding further constrained progress. Despite these hurdles, Pakistan's growth rate in research exceeds that of neighboring countries, though its overall output still lags behind nations like India and Iran.^2,3 For continued progress, investments in translational research, infrastructure, and sustained international collaboration are essential. This will support Pakistan's goal of becoming a regional leader in health sciences research¹.