Ziaur Rahman Foundation Vice-Chairperson Dr Zubaida Rahman on Saturday advocated for transforming Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) into a new beacon of innovation, global partnership, research distinction and empathetic leadership, building upon its historic heritage.

Speaking as the special guest at an afternoon views exchange session titled "DMCians' Thoughts on the Modernisation of Bangladesh's Healthcare System" inside the Dhaka Medical College (DMC) auditorium during the institution's 81st founding anniversary celebrations, she reflected on her background as a physician.

Dr Zubaida Rahman, who is also the Prime Minister's spouse, stated, "No matter how technology-driven the advancement of medical science becomes, human beings always remain at its centre. The true foundation of the medical profession is humanity. Many times, a few reassuring words from a physician work like medicine for a patient."

Delivering her remarks with visible emotion, she mentioned that she had never returned to Dhaka Medical College Hospital following her job dismissal, adding, "While serving during my rotation in Gynecology and Obstetrics, I witnessed the suffering of helpless and poor patients from very close quarters. We want Dhaka Medical College Hospital to become a 'centre of excellence and compassion for patients,' where every patient receives the highest standard of treatment and empathy."

Looking toward the future, she articulated a vision for Dhaka Medical College to evolve into one of South Asia's preeminent hubs for medical scholarship, scientific investigation and modernization over the next two decades to a quarter-century, noting, "Today, we are spread across different parts of the world. Our fields of work may be different, but the roots of our identity are the same—Dhaka Medical College. The time has now come for us to be united not only by the bond of memories but also by the bond of responsibility."

Zubaida Rahman further emphasized, "The true strength of an institution does not lie in its infrastructure, but in its people. The greatest asset of Dhaka Medical College is its talent, values, and its people."

Observing that every medical achievement is rooted in an individual, a family, and a life, she concluded by encouraging practitioners to uphold mutual solidarity and teamwork in spite of professional rivalries.