Three-Day APPNA Spring Convention Begins as Oklahoma State Assembly and Senate Honor APPNA for Its Contributions

Three-Day APPNA Spring Convention Begins as Oklahoma State Assembly and Senate Honor APPNA for Its Contributions

By: Raja Zahid Akhtar Khanzada

Oklahoma: The three-day Spring Convention of the Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America (APPNA) has officially begun in Oklahoma. On the first day, APPNA officials were invited to a joint session of the Oklahoma State Assembly and Senate, where they were honored for their contributions to the medical field in the United States and awarded certificates of recognition.

APPNA’s delegation, led by Dr. Humaira Qamar, the President of APPNA 2025, received a warm welcome in the Oklahoma State Assembly. The delegation included Dr. Hassan Karim, Dr. Sanaullah, Dr. Kaleem, Dr. Afzal, Akbar Kursi, Dr. Haroon Durrani (Former President), Dr. Fazal Ali, Dr. Muhammad Sanaullah (Chairman Host Committee), and Dr. Hassan. State Representatives Brian Hill and Neil Hays praised the role of Pakistani-American doctors, acknowledging their hard work and professional expertise as valuable assets to American society. They also welcomed the APPNA Convention, recognizing the contributions of Pakistani doctors as commendable.

Speaking at the State Assembly, APPNA President Dr. Humaira Qamarhighlighted that APPNA operates through 54 chapters across the U.S. and four in Canada, working to promote public health initiatives. She emphasized that Pakistani-American doctors play a significant role in providing quality healthcare to the American public. She invited all representatives to attend the convention, where they could also experience traditional South Asian cuisine and cultural festivities.

Dr. Qamar also shared exciting news that this year, over 1,000 Pakistani doctors have been selected for residency programs in various hospitals across the U.S., a testament to the high-quality education provided by Pakistani medical institutions.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Kaleem noted that more than 200 Pakistani doctors are currently serving in Oklahoma, and nearly 1,000 doctors are expected to attend the convention. As part of the event, the APPNA delegation visited the State Assembly and held meetings with several Assembly and Senate members.

This marks the first major APPNA event under the presidency of Dr. Humaira Qamar. The convention includes a blend of medical discussions, networking opportunities, and social activities. One of the key highlights of the event will be a special performance by renowned Indian singer Mika Singh, set to take place tomorrow, adding an element of entertainment for the attendees.

The convention will continue for three days, featuring medical panels, networking sessions, and cultural programs, making it a significant gathering for Pakistani-American medical professionals in the U.S.