The Pakistan Army, known as the “Pride of Pakistan,” has consistently upheld its commitment to defending the nation’s borders and ensuring the country’s sovereignty. For women in Pakistan, the opportunity to join this prestigious institution is an honor and a gateway to serving their country with dignity. In 2024, the Armed Forces Nursing Service (AFNS) is opening its doors for recruits, offering Pakistani women the chance to contribute to the nation’s defense while pursuing a fulfilling career in nursing.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide all the essential details about AFNS Jobs 2024, including how to apply, eligibility criteria, benefits, and the application process.
What is AFNS?
The Armed Forces Nursing Service (AFNS) is a specialized branch of the Pakistan Army that focuses on providing medical care to soldiers and their families. It is a vital component of the armed forces’ healthcare system. Women who join AFNS play an important role in nursing services, offering critical care in military hospitals and field hospitals, both domestically and internationally. The AFNS provides women with the opportunity to not only serve their country but also pursue a rewarding and respected career in nursing.
AFNS Job Opportunities in 2024
In 2024, women across Pakistan can apply for two primary categories under AFNS:
1: Trained Nurses (as Lieutenant)
- Women who hold a three-year nursing diploma or a one-year midwifery degree with four years of BSc Nursing experience are eligible for this position.
- Upon selection, these candidates will be appointed as Lieutenants in the Pakistan Army.
2: AFNS-BSc Nursing (Female)
- Candidates must have a high school diploma with at least 60% marks in Science or an FSc (Pre-Med) degree with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognized board.
- Successful candidates will be enrolled in a four-year BSc Nursing program and, upon completion, will be commissioned into the Pakistan Army as officers.
Eligibility Criteria for AFNS Jobs 2024
To ensure a smooth application process, it’s crucial to meet the eligibility criteria. Below are the key requirements for both categories of AFNS:
- Gender: Only female candidates are eligible to apply.
- Age Limit:
- For Trained Nurses (Lieutenant), the age limit is between 18 and 28 years as of December 31, 2024.
- For AFNS-BSc Nursing, candidates should be between 17 and 25 years old by December 31, 2024.
- Nationality:
- Applicants must be Pakistani citizens, including women from AJK (Azad Jammu and Kashmir) and Gilgit Baltistan.
- Candidates holding dual nationality will need to renounce one nationality to be considered eligible for government jobs.
- Marital Status:
- Both unmarried and married women can apply for Trained BSc Nurses.
- For AFNS-BSc Nursing, unmarried women are preferred.
- Physical Standards:
- Height: The minimum required height is 5 feet (152 cm).
- Weight: Should be proportional to height as per Body Mass Index (BMI) standards.
These requirements are set to ensure that the candidates meet the physical and educational standards necessary for a career in the military nursing profession.
Benefits of Joining AFNS
AFNS offers a wide range of benefits to its personnel, making it a highly attractive career path for women who wish to serve their country. Below are some of the significant advantages of joining the Pakistan Army through the AFNS:
1: Job Security
AFNS personnel enjoy stable employment with the government. This stability provides a secure career path in an uncertain economy, with little risk of layoffs or job reductions.
2: Competitive Salary and Benefits
AFNS employees are paid competitive salaries, which include various allowances such as housing, medical coverage, and transportation. Additionally, nurses receive a stipend during their training, with a starting salary after completion of around 78,000–85,000 PKR.
3: Healthcare Benefits
Nurses in the armed forces have access to comprehensive healthcare not only for themselves but also for their immediate family members.
4: Pension and Retirement
AFNS offers an extensive pension plan, ensuring financial stability after retirement. This lifelong benefit includes post-service healthcare and other privileges.
5: Opportunities for Advancement
The military provides a clear path for career progression. Nurses can climb the ranks and take on leadership roles, further developing their professional skills and experience.
6: Professional Development
AFNS nurses have access to continuing education, advanced medical courses, and specialized training. This helps them stay updated with the latest healthcare practices and enhances their professional growth.
7: Work-Life Balance
The military emphasizes a healthy work-life balance. AFNS nurses receive generous annual leave and maternity/paternity leave, allowing them to manage their personal and professional lives effectively.
8: Patriotism and Prestige
Serving the country through the AFNS gives individuals a profound sense of pride and purpose. The opportunity to contribute to the health and well-being of soldiers and their families is a deeply rewarding experience.
9: Travel Opportunities
AFNS personnel may be stationed in different parts of Pakistan or abroad, offering them the chance to explore new cultures and regions while serving their country.
10: Post-Service Benefits
Even after retiring from service, AFNS personnel continue to receive healthcare benefits, pensions, and access to military housing and clubs, ensuring long-term financial and personal security.
How to Apply for AFNS Jobs 2024
Interested candidates can apply for AFNS jobs through the following steps:
Online Registration
Applicants are encouraged to register online at the official Pakistan Army recruitment portal (www.joinpakarmy.gov.pk). The registration window will be open from July 2, 2024, to August 10, 2024.
Required Documents
When applying, candidates must submit:
- Original mark sheets and copies of educational certificates
- CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card)
- Proof of domicile
- Three passport-sized photographs
- A crossed postal order of Rs. 100, payable to DGPA GHQ Rawalpindi
Selection Process
After submitting their application, candidates will be called for interviews and medical exams at recruitment centers in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi. These candidates will be notified through call letters. Government employees must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their current employer.
