Published: 6 March 2025
Meet 2022 MSc Public Health graduate, Naveed Ahmad, whose degree at the University of Sunderland in London enabled his healthcare career in the UK and enhanced his volunteer work in Pakistan.
“My Public Health masters emphasised the critical importance of prevention – allowing me to design and implement approaches and programmes that benefit the communities I work with, here in the UK and in Pakistan.” explains Naveed, as he prepares for his next patient at the surgery where he works as a Dental Therapist, in Kent, South of London.
Having qualified as a dentist in Pakistan, in 2019, Naveed was then motivated to volunteer for the healthcare organisation, the Sir Buland Khan Welfare Foundation, also based in Pakistan.
.jpg)
Naveed’s work with the Foundation has seen him support healthcare programmes, including visits to primary schools to promote good oral hygiene and effective toothbrushing techniques. Crucial and impactful work in areas where dental facilities are sparse and public awareness of the importance of dental hygiene is low.
.jpg)
Inspired to study Public Health
It was Naveed’s volunteering with the Foundation, and a desire to positively influence dental health, that saw him decide to formally study public health and gain a professional qualification.
Having received excellent feedback from friends already studying at the University of Sunderland in London, Naveed did further research and was impressed by the “…comprehensive course content offered by the Public Health MSc programme, which covered essential areas such as preventative healthcare, health policy, and epidemiology.”.
He then enrolled in the programme and moved from his native Mardan, in Pakistan, to London in 2021. His experience studying the MSc Public Health was highly positive, with Naveed praising the knowledgeable lecturers and supportive environment at the university.
“Under the guidance of Dr John Kainesie and his team, I gathered so much knowledge which I’ve used, very effectively, in my work with the Foundation and for my own personal growth.”.
Studying in vibrant city with multiple career opportunities
The MSc Public Health also gave Naveed a more holistic view of population and community healthcare – something which has positively influenced his work in the UK and his continued volunteering in Pakistan.
“By studying at the University of Sunderland in London I gained international work experience, enhanced my professional development, and was exposed to new ideas thanks to the university’s truly student international community.”.
“The university also provides the opportunity for you to enjoy your student life in the vibrant city of London, a place with so many career opportunities!”.