A significant milestone was achieved at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) as a three-day Regional Workshop on Clinical Trials – “From Concept to Practice” commenced today. The event has been organized by the Medical Research Unit (MRU), SKIMS in collaboration with the Department of Health Research (DHR), Government of India, and AIIMS New Delhi.
The workshop was inaugurated by Director SKIMS & EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, along with Dean Medical Faculty SKIMS, Prof. G. M. Gulzar, Coordinator, Clinical Research, AIIMS New Delhi, Prof. Vijay Mathur and other senior faculty members from SKIMS. Senior dignitaries from the Department of Health Research, Government of India, and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) also graced the occasion.
This is the first-ever regional workshop on clinical trials organized at SKIMS, marking a new chapter in the institute’s research landscape.
In his inaugural address, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie highlighted the growing importance of research at SKIMS, emphasizing that the institute is not merely a service hospital but a premier tertiary care institution with research as its core strength.
“SKIMS holds a unique place in the research arena with its state-of-the-art Clinical Research Laboratory and high patient flow, which provide immense potential for clinical trials. To harness this potential, we are open to collaborations, and I am extremely satisfied to mark this major beginning in partnership with DHR, AIIMS New Delhi, and ICMR,” Prof. Ashraf stated.
Reflecting on his association with eminent global scientists such as Dr. Ramaswamy, Prof. Ashraf described it as a transformative learning experience and encouraged faculty and young researchers to pursue research with passion and purpose.
“It was through sustained dedication and personal perseverance that the National Task Force came into being,” he said, urging budding researchers to identify their areas of interest, noting that ample funding opportunities are available globally.
The Director extended his gratitude to the event coordinators and organizing committee for their exemplary efforts. He specifically appreciated the contributions of Prof. Aijaz A. Lone (Faculty Incharge, Skill Development Lab SKIMS) , Dr. Showkat Gurcoo (Associate Dean), Dr. Rouf Wani (Nodal Officer, MRU), and Dr. Qazi Mudassir, among others, for making this event possible.
The workshop aims to provide hands-on training and expert insights into the design, conduct, and management of clinical trials, fostering a strong culture of evidence-based research and collaboration at SKIMS.
