The Growth of Research Publications in Health Sciences in Pakistan over the Last Few Years

Abstract

For the past few decades, health sciences research in Pakistan has expanded rapidly because of international collaborative efforts, institutional reform, and cultural changes in the academia scene. Some impactful initiatives at the institutional level include the NRPU by HEC and Pakistan Research Repository. Research publications in the health sciences area have increased by 300% from 2010 to 2019 based on Web of Science and SCOPUS data, with 50% of them in impact-factor journals illustrating better quality, global availability and visibility. Research excellence has also been further augmented due to collaborative efforts with the USA, UK, and China.
However, significant challenges persist. Sufficient progress has been impeded by a lack of funds, complicated systems of examinations and political instability. Following this, the withdrawal of funding for NRPU, which used to be a major supporter of research and innovation, had been a severe setback. However, Pakistan is still comparatively far behind in terms of research, despite having a greater number of publications and rapid growth than its neighbours, such as India and Iran.
Pakistan must grow up to be a star; for this world-class infrastructure, translational research and international collaboration are prerequisites. This will give the health sciences sector the opportunity to continue to develop and to enjoy the international reputation it has established.