Jazz donates Rs8 million to carry out 1,000 tests for COVID-19 in Pakistan
Telecommunications giant Jazz donated 8 million rupees to Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH&RC) to carry out 1,000 tests for COVID-19.
The cancer hospital and research facility, which is a designated site for COVID-19, has thus far carried out 500 free of cost tests for patients meeting set criteria. The hospital has also decided to home and treat some of the coronavirus patients.
Faisal Sultan, CEO, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust, expressed his gratitude towards Jazz for coming for carrying out its part in the fight against coronavirus.
“I understand that the policymakers are trying their best to ensure an adequate supply of testing equipment nationwide, but we had to reach out to the private sector for urgent support. My greatest gratitude to Jazz for answering our call and supporting this humanitarian cause at a crucial stage,” Sultan said.
Jazz has pledged a total donation of 1.2 billion rupees for COVID-19 relief and support. The finding will be for short to mid-term initiatives aimed at minimizing the adverse impact of the pandemic, especially for the more vulnerable communities.
Jazz CEO Aamir Ibrahim said that the company has always supported SKMCH&RC, and its ideology and the current aid provided to the hospital should bring a positive effect.
“As the leading mobile operator, we have a duty to support the health authorities and medical institutions during these critical times by leveraging our resources, digital expertise, and nationwide footprint. To every one of the heroes on our front lines, we thank you,” Ibrahim said.
Pakistan currently has nearly 5,000 active coronavirus cases, with approximately 111 people reportedly having passed away due to the illness. Nearly 1,500 people have made a full recovery as well.