Lahore: Riphah International University, Gulberg Campus, has launched its flagship Innovation & Wellness Fest 2026, a seven-day multi-sector event aimed at strengthening academia–industry collaboration while promoting community health and youth entrepreneurship.
Organized under the leadership of Mr. Muhammad Umer Farooq, Regional Director, Riphah International University Lahore, the festival brings together students, academics, industry professionals, healthcare experts, and community organizations on a single platform to translate learning into practice and innovation into impact.
The festival was inaugurated by DG NCHD Ali Asghar and Mr. Hassan Muhammad Khan Chancellor Riphah International University , Chancellor Riphah International University, Mr Hassan Muhammad Khan, stated that the Innovation and Wellness Festival is a serious effort to bridge education with the practical world. Riphah University is not merely producing graduates; it is nurturing problem-solving leaders, because we believe that the role of universities is not limited to awarding degrees but to provide direction to society. The integrated linkage between education, healthcare, and industry forms the foundation of sustainable national development.
Our priority is to transform knowledge into social impact and public welfare. Universities must become centers of public service through active community engagement. Riphah International University believes in ethical leadership and social responsibility. Work Village is a new opportunity for youth, startups, and freelancers. Extending public healthcare facilities beyond the campus to the wider community is our firm commitment.
Through education, healthcare, and innovation, Riphah has become an active partner in national development.
A key highlight of the festival is its strong public welfare component, including free medical camps, diagnostic services, nutritional counselling, and physical therapy assessments, organized in collaboration with Chughtai Labs, Alkhidmat Foundation, and Alkhidmat Mobile Dispensary. These initiatives aim to extend healthcare access beyond campus and directly benefit surrounding communities.
The week-long fest features Sports Week, Cultural Day, intervarsity competitions, a startup bazaar, job fair, CEO’s dinner, alumni and industry roundtables, and public awareness seminars, alongside dedicated activities for both male and female students. A children’s learning zone and creative student exhibitions showcasing food, handicrafts, jewellery, and entrepreneurial products further add to the festival’s inclusive character.
The event also marks the inauguration of “Work Village,” a new business and innovation unit designed to support startups, freelancers, and student entrepreneurs.
The Wellness Fest is being attended by prominent national figures, educators, healthcare professionals, and media personalities, including Dr. Javed Akram, Qasim Ali Shah, Sarah Chaudhry, Nighat Hashmi, Mugheera Luqman, Fareeha Zeeshan, and others. Thursday, 22 January 2026, features addresses by senior government officials, industry leaders, and development sector representatives.
Through this initiative, Riphah International University reinforces its commitment to sustainable health, industry-relevant education, and inclusive societal development, positioning universities as active contributors to national well-being rather than passive academic spaces.
