Pak Austria Fachhochschule: Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (PAF-IAST) proudly announces a historic milestone in applied research, innovation, and healthcare advancement. The University has successfully achieved formal site approval from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to establish a local medical device manufacturing facility at the Technology Park, PAF-IAST, Haripur, dedicated to the production of Next-Generation Advanced Wound Dressings and Artificial Skin Substitutes. This approval marks a significant step toward strengthening Pakistan’s capacity in indigenous medical device manufacturing and translational biomedical research.
This achievement is part of the DGST-funded R&D project titled “Development of Artificial Skin & Tissue Substitutes Based on 3D Bio-Printed Advanced Materials” (Project Code: DGST/BSTICE R&D-Cons/2024-2025/1332). The project reflects PAF-IAST’s commitment to bridging cutting-edge research with real-world healthcare solutions, transforming laboratory innovation into regulated, market-ready medical technologies that can directly benefit patients and the healthcare system.
This landmark success is a testament to the exceptional dedication, perseverance, and scientific leadership of Dr. Fazli Wahid and his research team. Their continuous efforts have translated innovative research into a nationally recognized regulatory achievement. Under the visionary leadership of **Dr. Fazli Wahid—Fulbright Fellow, Associate Professor in the Department of Biological & Health Sciences at PAF-IAST, recipient of the Pride of Pakistan Award, and an innovator with over 15 years of R&D experience in biomaterials, 3D bioprinting, and tissue engineering—**this project sets new benchmarks for biomedical innovation in Pakistan. As the Founder of BioprintX Pvt. Ltd. and Co-Founder of Radiant Aura, Dr. Fazli Wahid continues to drive advancements in regenerative medicine and next-generation wound care technologies.
Special appreciation is extended to the PAF-IAST Administration and Management for their unwavering support, strategic vision, and commitment to strengthening industry–academia collaboration. Their encouragement of applied research and commercialization has played a vital role in achieving this regulatory milestone and fostering an ecosystem where scientific innovation can thrive and translate into impactful healthcare solutions.
This facility will be the first of its kind in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, representing a historic step toward developing a robust medical device manufacturing ecosystem in the region. It will not only accelerate the commercialization of research but also enhance Pakistan’s self-reliance in advanced medical technologies, reduce dependency on imports, and open new avenues for healthcare innovation, employment, and industrial growth.
With the financial support and strategic guidance of the Directorate General of Science & Technology (DGST), Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, this initiative reflects a powerful synergy between government, academia, and industry. Together, they are paving the way for a future where Pakistan emerges as a leader in biomedical research, medical device manufacturing, and regenerative healthcare solutions.