CBEC – 20TH ANNIVERSARY

Let me begin by offering my sincere and enthusiastic congratulations to all the CBEC faculty, staff, and students on the centre’s 20th anniversary. One of the highlights of my academic career has been the opportunity to visit CBEC in 2023 to participate as a visiting faculty member.

I received my December 2023 copy of Bioethics Links the very week in which I was invited to write a brief word on my experience as a foreign faculty member at CBEC. That issue contains a photo of the graduating class of 2023, the very students who were present during my visit. I’ve enjoyed perusing that photograph and reflecting on the many wonderful exchanges I had with faculty and students during my time there. I’m sure I learned more from those brief encounters than what I was able to impart to all those with whom I had the pleasure of interacting.

There are more wonderful experiences to comment on than what I’m able to do in the space available here, but I will note briefly some of the highlights. I was particularly impressed by the caliber of the students enrolled in the academic programs, many of whom are senior clinicians. It was exciting to be part of a bioethics program that is having immediate and enduring impacts throughout South Asia, North Africa and beyond. Drs. Moazam, Jafarey and others have created a safe and stimulating environment for rigorous intellectual exchanges amongst those from varying cultural and religious traditions.

Aside from the academic experience, the cultural experience was extraordinary. I enjoyed unparalleled hospitality during my short stay, and I particularly enjoyed the communal lunches which provided opportunities to get to know a few individuals on a more personal level. I was treated to a tour of the impressive hospital in which the Centre is housed, as well as a local museum. It was exciting to experience some of the local culture including a wonderful meal at a seaside restaurant. Some of that excitement, I must admit, might be described as ‘anxiety’ as our various drivers navigated the Karachi traffic at what seemed to me to be an exceedingly rapid pace.

The only negative aspect of my visit to CBEC was related to the time it took to journey half way around the globe to get there, and then the challenge of adjusting to the jet lag. If I were to visit again I’d plan to come a few days earlier so that all of the above-noted positive experiences would have been even more enjoyable with a well-rested body and mind. Again, my heartfelt congratulations to everyone at CBEC. I wish a continuing success in your next 20 years and beyond.