PU VC Stresses Importance of Breastfeeding for Child Health

By Our Staff Reporter Farzana Chaudhry

LAHORE: Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali emphasized the critical role of breastfeeding in ensuring the mental and physical well-being of infants, calling it a natural and divine source of nourishment that cannot be replaced by formula milk.

He was addressing an awareness seminar on breastfeeding organized by the Department of Public Health, Punjab University, in collaboration with UNICEF, at Al-Raazi Hall on Friday.

The event was attended by Dr Nauman Ali, In-charge Department of Public Health; Prof Dr Rubina Zakir, Dean Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition; Prof Dr Muhammad Riaz from Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan; Assma Masud and Nauman Ghani from UNICEF; faculty members, and a large number of students.

In his remarks, Prof Dr Muhammad Ali said that breastfeeding is a divine guidance highlighted in the Holy Quran, and adhering to it ensures a child’s physical and emotional health. “Mother’s milk is a natural formula for health and immunity, while formula milk can never be its substitute,” he stated.

He further said that parents play a vital and selfless role in nurturing their children and that promoting breastfeeding awareness is essential for building a healthy society.

Dr Nauman Ali noted that breastfeeding benefits both mother and child, serving as the foundation of a child’s immune system and protection against diseases. He urged greater public awareness to ensure that every newborn receives this fundamental right.

Prof Dr Rubina Zakir added that depriving infants of breastfeeding can lead to serious health implications, stressing that breastfeeding within the first hour after birth is essential. “Breastfeeding also fosters a deep emotional connection between mother and child,” she said.

Representatives from UNICEF, including Assma Masud and Nauman Ghani, alongside Prof Dr Muhammad Riaz, also addressed the seminar, reaffirming UNICEF’s commitment to supporting public health initiatives that promote maternal and child welfare.