AZERBAIJAN: Thirty-three pre-conference workshops, four courses, ninety-six oral and fifteen poster presentations were some of the salient features of International Conference on Medical Education organized by Riphah Internaitonal University in collaboration with Azerbaijan Medical University which attracted a large number of eminent medial personalities and experts in medical education from many countries. The conference held from October 7th to October 10th 2023 at Baku attracted about three hundred delegates from twenty countries which included Azerbaijan, Brazil, Georgia, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, Iran, India, Indonesia, Libya, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Sudan, Switzerland, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States of America. The conference which was a great success underscores the global significance of ICME and its role in shaping the future of medial education worldwide. It emerged as a global platform for exchange of knowledge and networking. Baku the capital city of Azerbaijan venue of the conference has a rich history, vibrant culture and a stunning architecture which provided a captivating backdrop for this global gathering of medical educationists.
Inaugural Session
The inaugural session was also attended by high ranking government officials in addition to leaders in the field of medical education who shared their insights and aspirations for this transformative event. Minister of Education Mr. Emin Amrullayev in his welcome address highlighted the importance of Internaitonal collaboration in advancing medical education. Minister of Health Mr. Teymur Musayev endorsed the same sentiments and stressed upon critical connection between medical education and healthcare delivery. He expressed optimism about the conference’s potential to drive positive change in the health sector. Rector of Azerbaijan Medical University Prof. Garay Garaybayli also extended warm welcome to the participants, speakers and highlighted the role of university in promoting excellence in medical education. The keynote speakers in this session included Prof. Ricardo Leon-Boques President of World Federation of Medical Education (WFME) Prof. Ismayil Ibrahim Matalka President of Raas Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Prof.Hossam Hamdy Chancellor of Gulf Medical University and Prof. Garay Garaybayli Rector Azerbaijan Medical University who shared insights into the evolving landscape of medical education.
Chancellor of Riphah Internaitonal University Mr. Hasan Muhammad Khan in his speech highlighted the significance of cross-border collaboration in fostering excellence in medical education. Chancellor of Gulf Medical University Prof. Mohamed Husamaldin Ahmed Hamdi Alsayed highlighted the importance of innovation and adaptability in medical education. Prof. Azar Rashid President of ICME addressing the participants expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests, speakers and committee members and reiterated ICME’s commitment to advancing medical education on a global scale. ICME 2023 also achieved a significant milestone as it was accredited by the European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education and awarded 24.5 CME Credits which is testimony to the exceptional quality of this academic event. Collaboration of various institutions which included Tehran University of Medical Sciences, University of Lahore, Gomal Medical College, Shalamar Institute of Health Sciences, RAK Medical & Health Sciences University, RAK College of Dental Sciences, Scholar and International Medical University played a vital role in the success of the conference. The conference Gala Dinner was held on October 9th at Manzara Hotel which provided a memorable opportunity for networking.
Concluding Session
The concluding session provided an opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of speakers, facilitators and participants. Mr. Hassan Muhammad Khan chancellor of Riphah Internaitonal University along with Dr. Raug Baylarov Vice Rector Azerbaijan Medical University presented mementoes among the speakers in recognition of their contributions and dedication to advancing medical education. President ICME Prof. Azar Rashid thanked Prof. Rahila Yasmeen, Chairperson Organizing Committee Prof. Yawar Hayat Khan, Chairperson of scientific committee, Internaitonal Collaboration and Liaison Committee Prof. Rehan Ahmad Khan, Dr. Nabil Z. Seyidov and other ICME team members. Best oral and poster presenters were also presented mementoes.
After detailed analysis the conference came up with several recommendations for future International Conferences on Medical Education. It was decided to maintain a diverse range of sessions format including plenary sessions, symposia, oral and poster presentations besides workshops and courses to cater to diverse learning preference and interests. Internaitonal collaboration will remain a priority as it enhances the depth and breadth of discussions and promotes a global perspective in medical education. Future ICMEs will continue to feature renowned experts in medical education who can share their invaluable experiences and insights since their presence and contributions add tremendous value to the conference. The conference also recommended exploring innovative and current topics in medical education and aligning the themes with the evolving needs in this field. Yet another recommendation suggested limiting the number of pre-conference workshops offered to allow for more registration and ensure a more balanced distribution of attendees in the workshop. It was also suggested to close the registration of these workshops at least two weeks before the conference which will ensure timely identification of workshops with fewer registration so that necessary adjustments can be made in time. In case of cancellation of the workshops, facilitators and participants will be notified two weeks before the conference. This will provide ample opportunity to adjust their travel plans accordingly. Both in person and virtual attendance options should be available to ensure accessibility for a wider audience especially in the light of evolving global circumstances.
Prof. Vishna Devi Nadarajah an eminent medical educationist also announced holding the next Internaitonal Medical Educaiotn Conference which will be held from October 16th to 19th October 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in collaboration with Internaitonal Medical University and Riphah Internaitonal University.
