The University of Health Sciences (UHS) has launched an online portal titled "Pyari Beti" and helpline to provide adolescent girls with authentic guidance on puberty and reproductive health.
The initiative aims to address physical, emotional, and psychological challenges faced by young girls during adolescence.
The "Pyari Beti" portal is accessible on the UHS website, while a dedicated helpline (99232088) will allow girls to consult health experts twice a week.
The official inauguration was conducted by UHS Vice Chancellor Prof. Ahsan Waheed Rathore during a seminar organized by the Department of Public Health on Friday.
The seminar, themed "Living with Confidence: A Girl's Guide," was attended by over 100 orphan girls aged 9 to 15 from institutions such as Dar-ul-Shafqat, Kashana, and SOS Villages in Lahore.
Punjab Assembly member and Parliamentary Secretary for Specialized Healthcare Ms. Rushda Lodhi attended the event as the chief guest.
Speaking at the seminar, Prof. Rathore emphasized the importance of this initiative in raising awareness about physical challenges during puberty. He stated, "This effort will empower girls to live with confidence and dignity.
UHS Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Nadia Naseem hailed the "Pyari Beti" portal as a significant milestone for guiding young girls. "We are committed to providing girls with essential information and support regarding their health and lives.
Chief guest Ms. Rushda Lodhi highlighted the strides made in women's empowerment in Punjab, crediting the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. She urged girls to make full use of this initiative and spread awareness about the "Pyari Beti" portal among their peers.
During the seminar, gynecologist Prof. Alia Bashir elaborated on the physical and psychological changes girls experience during puberty. She stressed that this is a vulnerable age when girls are often misled by inaccurate information, and UHS's initiative will play a crucial role in boosting their confidence and understanding.
Prof. Najaf Masood, a pediatrician, praised UHS for taking on the role of a guardian for adolescent girls, ensuring they receive the care and guidance they deserve.
Director General Punjab Social Welfare Department, Mr. Khawaja Sikandar Zeeshan, commended UHS for tackling sensitive issues and facilitating open discussions. He assured the department’s full support for the initiative, which he said would pave the way for a safer and brighter future for young girls.
Other speakers included Khalida Nauman, Project Director of SOS Village Johar Town; Almas Butt, Director of SOS Village; Prof. Sidrah Saleem, Head of the Department of Microbiology; Public Health Lecturer Hassan Zahid; and nutritionist Wardah Nisar.