Fundraiser for Pakistani doctors destined for Ireland
by Orlaith Delaney
The Rotary Club of Athlone is holding a table quiz on Thursday, September 26, with the aim of raising funds for Pakistani medical students.
The quiz will take place at 8pm at the Buccaneers Rugby Club, with a €40 entry fee for a table of four.
The night is in aid of FAMS (Financial Assistance to Medical Students), an organisation that supports the training of Pakistan doctors.
According to the Rotary Club, there are 5,000 qualified Pakistani doctors working in Ireland.
Club President Sean O’Laiode said “the money raised will help trainee doctors with tuition fees, with assistance being paid directly to the college.
"We in Ireland have benefitted hugely from Pakistani doctors coming to work in Ireland and this is a small way to show our appreciation.”
This is the second year the Rotary Club has raised funds for FAMS.
The club's FAMS Co-ordinator Aisha Chaudhry said that the support has allowed one Pakistani medical student to already finish their studies and start working in the Mater Hospital in Dublin.
“A few more are almost ready to come to Ireland.”
Aisha added that the funds have “supported two students for a whole year”, and it is hoped that figure will increase this year.
She said FAMS funds are provided to Pakistani medical students who have the capability to do well in their studies, but would never be able to graduate without financial support.
It costs €750 to fund a doctor in Pakistan for one year, which covers their tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses.
She highlighted the importance of Pakistani doctors to the HSE and the Irish medical system.
“During Covid, most of the doctors working were Pakistani doctors.”
The funds are “a helping hand to Pakistani doctors, to show solidarity with them," she concluded.
To book a table for the quiz night, contact either Sean on 087 9178345 or Aisha on 086 0861064, or be there by 7.45pm