ConnectED Newsletter winter 2022-23

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

Medical University of Bahrain Newsletter

ConnectED

Prince Salman bin Hamad Medal for Medical Merit Ceremony

In October, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain, received the Prince Salman bin Hamad Medal for Medical Merit from Her Excellency Dr Jaleela bint Alsayed Jawad Hasan, Minister of Health, during a ceremony held at the Shaikh Isa Cultural Centre. The Prince Salman bin Hamad Medal for Medical Merit was awarded to RCSI Bahrain in December 2021 in recognition of the contribution made to protect public health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On this occasion, Professor Otoom reiterated that this recognition is a true testament to all staff and students for their hard work and commitment to supporting the government’s measures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RCSI Bahrain, Bahrain Red Crescent Society, Jordan Red Crescent Society and Operation Childlife Collaboration

Under the patronage of His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al-Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Red Crescent Society, Bahrain Red Crescent Society, Jordan Red Crescent Society, RCSI Bahrain, and Operation Childlife signed a collaboration agreement on 16th November at the Four Seasons Hotel. The aim of the agreement is to promote community, charitable giving and educational activities, which bring potential benefits to the people and communities locally, regionally and internationally.

Higher Education Council Visit to Dublin

The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland was delighted to welcome on Dublin’s campus, Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Rana Bint Isa Bin Duaij Al Khalifa, Secretary General of the Higher Education Council and Deputy Chairperson of the Higher Education Council Board of Trustees, and two representatives from her team.

The delegation met with RCSI senior management, attended presentations by members of the Research Department and a representative of the MD programme, and was provided with a tour of the educational facilities. Her Excellency also attended an external meeting with the Irish Higher Education Authority’s Chairman Mr Michael Horgan, and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Alan Wall. A dinner reception in the RCSI Boardroom with the RCSI President and senior management concluded the visit.

Her Excellency Minister of Health and President of RCSI Bahrain

From left; Professor Fawzi Ameen, Member of Bahrain Red Crescent Society Board of Directors; Dr Mohammed Al-Hadid, President of Jordan Red Crescent Society; His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al-Khalifa, President of Bahrain Red Crescent Society; Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain; Mr John Collins, Chairman and Founder of Operation Childlife

Cooperation Agreement with Bahrain’s Ministry of Health

Her Excellency Minister of Health and President of RCSI Bahrain During signing the agreement

On 2nd October, RCSI Bahrain was delighted to welcome Her Excellency Dr Jaleela bint Al Sayyed Jawad Hassan, Minister of Health, and Dr Lulwa Rashid AlShowaiter, Primary Healthcare Centres Acting Chief Executive Officer, for the signing of a cooperation agreement between RCSI Bahrain and Primary Healthcare Centres.

As part of this cooperation, RCSI Bahrain will provide Primary Healthcare Centres with support in diagnostic and therapeutic services, as well as other support services, including laboratories and Library, and the Primary Healthcare Centres will open their facilities to RCSI Bahrain’s medical faculty for education, training and scientific research.

Dr AlShowaiter said the agreement would bolster cooperation with RCSI Bahrain, a pioneering academic institution in the Arabian Gulf Region. She praised RCSI Bahrain’s efforts to support the staff working in the primary healthcare sector, stressing her commitment to enhancing the standard of services.

President of RCSI Bahrain, Professor Sameer Otoom, emphasised the strong partnership with the Primary Healthcare Centres aims to achieve common goals, support services and keep abreast of future medical studies and clinical research.

WHO and HEC Event at RCSI Bahrain

Under the leadership of Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Rana bint Isa bin Duaij Al Khalifa, Secretary General of the Higher Education Council and Deputy Chairman of the Higher Education Council Board of Trustees, the Higher Education Council in cooperation with the Ministry of Health, organised an introductory meeting on the 15th September at RCSI Bahrain on the implementation of the WHO Health-Promoting Universities Initiative. This aims to create healthy universities that contribute to providing an educational environment and an organisational culture that promotes the society’s health, well-being and sustainability.

The meeting was attended by Dr Maryam Al-Hajri, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health at the Ministry of Health; Dr Samar El Feky, Regional Adviser for Health Promotion and Social Determinants of Health, World Health Organization Eastern

Mediterranean Regional Office (WHO EMRO); Dr Tasnim Atatrah, WHO representative and Head of Office in Bahrain, and a number of officials from the Department of Health Promotion at the Ministry of Health and representatives of public and private universities in Bahrain.

Her Excellency highlighted in her address that the physical and psychological health of the community in Bahrain is a fundamental pillar in promoting sustainability, and maintaining this is essential to supporting the Kingdom’s endeavours to achieve human and societal development. She added that in accordance with standards set by the WHO, the Health-Promoting Universities Initiative aims to make universities a tool for promoting a healthy lifestyle and providing sustainable and healthier options for students, faculty and staff in higher education institutions.

Invitation to His Holiness Pope Francis’ Welcome Reception

On 3rd November, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain; Mr Stephen Harrison-Mirfield, Managing Director; and Mr Fadi Ghosn, Head of Recognition, Careers & Alumni attended on behalf of the university, the Welcome Reception held at Sakhir Palace in honour of His Holiness Pope Francis’ first visit to Bahrain. RCSI Bahrain was invited to this reception in line with our attendance of the global interfaith dialogue on religious freedoms and peaceful co-existence held in 2022, under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa.

2nd Bahrain Health Regulatory Conference and Exhibition

On 29 th September, Professor Alfred Nicholson, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Head of School of Medicine, attended the Opening Ceremony of the 2nd Bahrain Health Regulatory Conference and Exhibition. This conference highlighted the quality standards of health services and insights into implementing and managing health regulations among health institutions.

Board of Governors’ Meeting

A Board of Governors’ meeting was convened in Dublin in December 2022 in the presence of members

Professor Laura Viani, President of RCSI in Dublin (Chair);

Professor Cathal Kelly, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive/Registrar of RCSI in Dublin; Major General

Professor Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa, Director of Bahrain Defence Force - Royal Medical Services; Mr Mahmood Al Kooheji, Chairman of Social Insurance Organization; Professor Simon Cross, Chair of RCSI Academic Council; Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain; Mr Stephen Harrison-Mirfield,

Managing Director of RCSI Bahrain and with the attendance of Professor Alfred Nicholson, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Head of School of Medicine.

Professor Nicholson provided updates on the latest academic achievements, revisions to the Admissions Policy, and the latest match rates of the 2021 and 2022 cohorts. Status updates on the action plan drawn from the Irish Medical Council’s review and the implementation of RCSI’s Transforming Healthcare Education Project (THEP) were also presented.

RCSI Bahrain Board of Governors

Adjunct Professors Appointed

In October, the Medicine & Health Sciences Board of RCSI approved the appointment of Professor Ahmed Al-Ansari and Professor Fawzi Ameen as Adjunct Professors of RCSI Bahrain.

Professor Ahmed Al-Ansari is currently CEO of Government Hospitals in the Kingdom of Bahrain. He has been an active member of the Academic Board for RCSI Bahrain since 2013 and is a member of the Advisory Board for the BSc (Hons) Nursing Programme & MSc Nursing Programme at RCSI Bahrain.

Professor Fawzi Ameen is the Head of the Delegation for GCC for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. As Head of Delegation, Professor Fawzi Ameen is responsible for

Dr Tariq Saeed’s ISAPS Nomination

coordination between the Red Crescent Societies in the GCC, increasing societies’ communication with the regional headquarters in Beirut, implementing joint training programmes, and organising cooperation to respond to the Federation’s calls on disaster relief cases around the world.

92nd Saudi National Day Celebration

In September, Dr Tariq Saeed, a plastic surgeon, was elected as Bahrain’s official representative of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) during the ISAPS conference held in Istanbul. RCSI Bahrain would like to extend congratulations to Dr Saeed for this prestigious and fitting recognition.

The ISAPS is the world’s leading professional body for board-certified aesthetic plastic surgeons. More than 2,000 doctors attended this year’s conference to share their knowledge and discuss research topics and recent advancements in surgical techniques.

In September, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain, attended the 92nd Saudi National Day celebration at the Diplomat Radisson Hotel, at the invitation of His Royal Highness Prince Sultan bin Ahmed bin Abdulaziz, Saudi Ambassador to Bahrain and Dr Yousef Al Thuaini, Cultural Attaché of Saudi Arabia to Bahrain. On this joyous occasion, the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) hosted a series of events at key tourist attractions in Bahrain to mark the Saudi National Day, celebrated annually on 23rd September.

Professor Ahmed Al-Ansari

Professor Fawzi Ameen

Dr Tariq Saeed

Visit to British Embassy

On 29th September, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain; Professor Alfred Nicholson, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Head of School of Medicine, and Professor Kevin Dunne, Head of the Paediatrics Department, were welcomed by His Excellency Mr Roderick Drummond, British Ambassador to Bahrain, at the Ambassador’s residence for a meeting to convey their condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Malaysian National Day

On 15th September, Dr Colin Greengrass, RCSI Bahrain’s Academic Director for Technology Enhanced Learning and Senior Lecturer in Pharmacology, attended a reception event to mark the 65th National Day of Malaysia at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, in the presence of His Excellency Shazryll Zahiran, Malaysian Ambassador to Bahrain.

German National Day

In October, Professor Stephen Atkin, Head of School of Postgraduate Studies and Research; Professor Uwe Torsten, Professor and Head of Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; and Dr Alexandra Butler, Senior Research Fellow, attended the German National Day celebration on behalf of RCSI Bahrain in the presence of His Excellency Clemens Hach, German Ambassador to Bahrain.

Omani National Day

In November, Mr Fadi Ghosn, Head of Recognition, Careers & Alumni, and Mr Omar Bureshaid, Records & Regulations Manager, attended the Omani National Day Reception event on behalf of RCSI Bahrain in the presence of His Excellency Faisal Harib Al Busaidi, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Bahrain and His Excellency Dr Mohammed bin Ali bin Abdullah Al-Balushi, Deputy Head of Mission.

His Excellency the British Ambassador to Bahrain with RCSI Bahrain Executives

His Excellency the German Ambassador to Bahrain with Professor Atkin and Dr Butler

His Excellency the Omani Ambassador to Bahrain with Mr Bureshaid and Mr Ghosn

Royal Hospital for Women and Children becomes AlMalaki Specialist Hospital

Under the Patronage of His Excellency Lieutenant General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health, the Royal Hospital for Women and Children hosted a VIP event to launch its new corporate name as AlMalaki Specialist Hospital. A group of RCSI Bahrain senior staff attended the event held in October in the presence of several government officials and Mr Rohit Srivastava, CEO of AlMalaki Specialist Hospital.

Bahrain Specialist Hospital’s 20th Anniversary

On 20th October, Professor Naji Alamuddin, Deputy Head of School of Medicine, and Mr Fadi Ghosn, Head of Recognition, Careers & Alumni, attended the Bahrain Specialist Hospital’s 20th Anniversary event held at the Gulf Hotel. RCSI Bahrain congratulated Dr Kasim Ardati, Managing Director of the Bahrain Specialist Hospital, as well as the Board of Directors and the management team on the momentous occasion of their 20th Anniversary.

Meeting with Al Kindi Hospital

Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain; Professor Alfred Nicholson, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Head of School of Medicine, and Mr Fadi Ghosn, Head of Recognition, Careers & Alumni, visited Al-Kindi Hospital, where they met with His Excellency Dr Faisal Al-Mousawi and Dr Ebtisam Al Dallal, Consultant Periodontist, and a number of Al-Kindi Hospital senior management representatives. During the meeting, potential partnership opportunities between the two organisations were discussed, with a focus on clinical electives and research.

RCSI Bahrain congratulated their hosts on the opening of their Cancer Diagnostic and Surgical Unit held on the 24th October which was attended by Dr Maryam Alaradi, Senior Lecturer in Nursing, RCSI Bahrain. With cancer research and treatment being a key research area of RCSI Bahrain, we look forward to the further development of our shared visions in the search for better health outcomes for the people of Bahrain.

The CEO of AlMalaki Specialist Hospital with RCSI Bahrain Executives

The Managing Director of the Bahrain Specialist Hospital with RCSI Bahrain Executives

WFME recognition of the BQA

RCSI Bahrain is pleased to have worked together with the Bahrain Education and Training Quality Authority (BQA) in its recognition as a World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) quality agency.

The BQA is recognised on the WFME list of accredited agencies as of November 2022, after an extensive review by the WFME, who attended to observe the BQA’s review of the RCSI Bahrain undergraduate medicine programme in March 2022. RCSI Bahrain provided an exceptional experience reflecting our values to the panel members and WFME observers, which was evident in the published review report. This recognition provides another pathway to our medicine graduates to sit the USMLE.

US Embassy Delegation Visit

On 29th November, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain, welcomed a delegation from the US Embassy in Bahrain, led by Mr David Brownstein, Deputy Chief of Mission, with Ms Linda McMullen, Public Affairs Officer, and Ms Samar Hasan, Educational Specialist also in attendance. Mr Stephen Harrison-Mirfield, Managing Director of RCSI Bahrain, presented an overview of the university, while Professor Stephen Atkin, Head of School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, presented our latest research projects and facilities, and Mr Fadi Ghosn, Head of Recognition, Careers & Alumni, presented updates on our graduates working in the US and our collaborations with various institutions in the USA.

Further collaboration opportunities with institutions in the US for student and staff exchange, clinical electives, and research were discussed. The US Embassy delegation was pleased with the progress and developments made by the University and the achievements of our graduates around the world.

Visit of AUBH President

In November, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain, alongside Professor Alfred Nicholson, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Head of School of Medicine and Dr Kathryn Strachan, Director of Quality and Academic Development, hosted a meeting on campus with Dr Bradley J. Cook, President of the American University of Bahrain, to discuss areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration.

Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Bahrain with President of RCSI Bahrain

President of the American University of Bahrain with RCSI Bahrain Executives

MRCS Examinations in Bahrain

On 25th and 26th November, Mr Eamon Mackle, Chairman of the International Board of Examiners and Professor Peter Gillen, member of the Examinations Authority, led the MRCS Examinations in Bahrain in the Crown Prince Centre for Training and Medical Research.

RCSI Bahrain would like to extend its appreciation and gratitude to Major General Professor Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa, Director of Royal Medical Services, Bahrain Defence Force Hospital, for the support provided with hosting the examinations.

RCSI participates in Crown Prince Training Centre’s Wound Conference

Representatives from RCSI in Dublin participated in the First Bahrain International Wound Conference held from 7th to 10th December at the Crown Prince Centre for Training and Medical Research in strategic partnership with Wounds International. Professor Zena Moore, Head of School of Nursing & Midwifery and Director of the Skin Wounds and Trauma Research Centre at RCSI in Dublin, shared her expertise on the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers and injury.

In March 2022, Professor Moore was awarded a Life Achievement Award from the World Union of Wound Healing Societies, in recognition of her contribution to the advancement of wound care throughout her career. She has published over 276 articles, guidelines, consensus documents and book chapters on the area of wound healing and tissue repair and she is currently the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel Chair of the International Guideline Governance Group.

Professor Zena Moore

Dr Mohammed Al Shehabi’s latest Appointment

Major General Professor Shaikh Khalid bin Ali Al Khalifa, Director of the Royal Medical Services, Bahrain Defence Force Hospital assigned Dr Mohamed Al Shehabi, Head of the Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery Department, Royal Medical Services (RMS), to manage the Postgraduate Medical & Surgical Programmes of the Saudi Authority for Health Specialties, as a Designated Institute Officer.

Dr Al Shehabi currently chairs the Clinical Competency Committee of the Saudi Board which oversees the application of academic and training standards for all resident doctors trained in the Saudi Board Programme.

This nomination was made in recognition of Dr Al Shehabi’s tireless efforts to achieve the success of these programmes established at the RMS, and his dedication in providing academic and clinical training to the physicians of the postgraduate training programmes throughout his 22 years of service in the hospital.

US Ambassador Reception

On 27th September, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain, and Professor Stephen Atkin, Head of School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, RCSI Bahrain, attended a reception organised by His Excellency Steven C Bondy, US Ambassador to Bahrain, to welcome the US Embassy’s new senior staff members

Meeting with Al-Ansari Group

In October, RCSI Bahrain executives met with Mr Abdul Jaleel Al Ansari, Chairman of the Al-Ansari Group of Companies, to explore possible collaboration in education and research.

Dr Mohamed Al Shehabi

Irish Medical Council Visit

The RCSI Bahrain Medicine undergraduate programme was accredited by the Medical Council of Ireland (IMC) through a comprehensive virtual review held in November 2021.

This was followed by a confirmatory visit to RCSI Bahrain and our clinical sites in October 2022. The team of IMC personnel and panel members led by Professor Mary O’ Sullivan, University of Limerick, Ireland, met with the management team, toured the RCSI Bahrain campus facilities and visited King Hamad University Hospital, Bahrain Oncology Centre,

Salmaniya Medical Complex, Bahrain Defence Force - Royal Medical Services, Mohammed Bin Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa Specialist Cardiac Centre and Halat Bu Maher Health Centre.

Meeting with Private Hospitals and Tamkeen

In December, representatives from RCSI Bahrain, Tamkeen and a group of Private Hospitals met to discuss renewing the tri-party collaboration in support of training and employing Bahraini nationals as nurses. During the meeting, it was highlighted that the first batch of 33 RCSI Bahrain nursing students supported by Tamkeen is expected to graduate in June 2023 and pursue their careers in private hospitals.

RCSI Bahrain will continue with the clinical placement of nursing students in private hospitals as per the existing agreements. These placements are an opportunity to introduce our students to future employers in the private sector, while also affording the private hospitals the opportunity to develop their staff pipeline with highly trained and competent Bahraini nurses.

RCSI Bahrain Nursing Programmes Accredited in Saudi Arabia

RCSI Bahrain received accreditation for its Nursing and Midwifery programme from the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia. This recognition is part of the University’s strategic aim to support the advancement of the nursing workforce in the Middle East. RCSI Bahrain’s undergraduate medicine programme had already previously been accredited by the Saudi Ministry.

As a result, the University’s accreditation has grown to include all of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s member states, as well as countries in the Middle East and beyond. With students from more than 50 nationalities and alumni working in over 30 different countries, RCSI Bahrain students and graduates have become ambassadors of Bahrain in their countries.

Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain expressed gratitude to Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Rana Bint Isa Bin Duaij Al Khalifa, Secretary General of the Higher Education Council and Deputy Chairperson of the Higher Education Council Board of Trustees, for her leadership and emphasis on prioritising obtaining accreditation for Bahrain’s universities.

RCSI Bahrain Executives celebrate Bahrain National Day alongside private hospitals and Tamkeen representatives

Participation in 1st Bahrain Nursing Society International Conference

In December, faculty members and students from the School of Nursing & Midwifery, RCSI Bahrain, attended and participated in various activities during the 1st Bahrain Nursing Society International Conference, which was themed ‘Investing in Nursing and Midwifery for Health Security’, held under the patronage of His Excellency Lieutenant General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health.

Dr Eman Tawash, Senior Lecturer in Nursing/Year 4 Director, RCSI Bahrain and Dr Hussain Ali Nasaif, Senior Lecturer in Nursing/Director of Bachelor’s in Nursing, RCSI Bahrain, were invited to participate in the conference Scientific Committee.

RCSI Bahrain’s Lecturers in Nursing, Ms Sumaya Faraj and Ms Maryam Yaqoob evaluated the posters session, during which four nursing students presented their research posters. Dr Eman Tawash, Dr Hussain Ali Nasaif, and Senior Lecturers in Nursing Dr Maryam AlAradi and Dr Khadija Matrook, moderated several sessions and presented their research findings.

Partnership Launch with the University of Keele

From left, the President of RCSI Bahrain; Her Excellency the Secretary General of the Higher Education Council and Deputy Chairperson of the Higher Education Council Board of Trustees; Ms Hanan Faraj (Nursing Year 4 student); Ms Sana Alhaj (Nursing Year 4 student); His Excellency the British Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain; and Head of School of Nursing and Midwifery, Keele University, UK

In October, RCSI Bahrain hosted Professor Julie Green, Head of School of Nursing and Midwifery, Keele University, UK, as Guest of Honour for the partnership launch in the presence of Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Rana Bint Isa Bin Duaij Al Khalifa - Secretary General of the Higher Education Council and Deputy Chairperson of the Higher Education Council Board of Trustees; His Excellency Mr Roderick Drummond, British Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain and Dr Jameela Jassim Mukhaimer, President of Bahrain Nursing Society. Thanks to the partnership between Keele University and RCSI Bahrain, a nursing student exchange programme will take place annually where nursing students from both universities will visit one another’s campuses to participate in learning and teaching activities and attend clinical observerships in local healthcare facilities.

Dr Kathryn Strachan, Director of Quality and Academic Development and Mr Fadi Ghosn, Head of Recognition, Careers & Alumni, presented updates on

their respective departments, which was followed by a presentation by Professor Julie Green on the ‘Nursing exchange programme collaboration’. Dr Hussain Ali Nasaif, Senior Lecturer in Nursing and Director of the Undergraduate Nursing Programme, shared his thoughts on the Future Opportunities of the Nursing Student Exchange Programme with the University of Keele. At the end of the meeting, Ms Hanan Faraj and Ms Sana Alhaj (Nursing Year 4 students) presented their views on ‘Enhancing global perspectives on nursing and nurse education via an exchange placement at Keele University’.

During the summer of 2022, a group of six Nursing Year 3 students from RCSI Bahrain participated in a three-week exchange placement at Keele University in the United Kingdom, organised by Professor Rebecca Jester, former Head of School of Nursing and Midwifery. In September, RCSI Bahrain welcomed a group of students from Keele University for a month to undertake their placement in Bahrain.

RCSI Bahrain Nursing faculty at the conference

Undergraduate Scholarship Winners

RCSI Bahrain would like to extend congratulations to the winners of the Scholarship programme, namely Ms Maryam Tomerak and Mr Ramadan Karrout, being winners of RCSI Bahrain Medicine Scholarship; Mr Ahmed Alaraibi, the winner of the Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa Scholarship, and Ms Maryam El-Mahayni, winner of the RCSI Bahrain Nursing Scholarship.

SIM Patient Training

The SIM Patient Unit trained its biggest cohort of 25 simulation patients on 23rd November at the new teaching space in Al Sayah Square.

This training was aimed at enhancing the SIM patients’ skills under the careful mentoring of Professor Nuha Birido, Associate Professor in Surgery & Academic Director of Clinical Simulation; Dr Sally Doherty, Senior Lecturer in Psychology; Dr Georsan Caruth, Clinical Educator in Paediatrics; Dr Hani Malik, Lecturer in Family Medicine; and Ms Ruth Searl, Administrator of School of Postgraduate Studies & Research. The training also served as a platform for the simulation patients to meet and share their experiences.

Interprofessional Learning Simulation

RCSI Bahrain supports and encourages interdisciplinary teaching and learning. The interprofessional learning simulation is part of the unique collaboration between the School of Medicine and the School of Nursing and Midwifery, to offer interprofessional learning opportunities and a distinctive approach to improving patient care. On 15th October, the

Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department hosted the group of Keele University nursing students with the Senior Cycle 1 medicine students to take part in a high-fidelity simulation session on managing a primary post-partum haemorrhage.

During the training session

Second Middle East Conference in Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education

On 10th October, Dr Colin Greengrass, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacology & Academic Director of Technology Enhanced Learning, and Dr Jamal Hashem, Lecturer in Surgery, attended the second Middle East Conference in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Higher Education, held under the patronage of Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Rana bint Isa bin Duaij Al Khalifa, Secretary General of the Higher Education Council and Deputy of the Board of Trustees of the Higher Education Council.

Her Excellency delivered an introduction encompassing the impact of AI-powered technologies on the GDP and employability of future graduates, specifying that AI competencies significantly improve demand for graduates across all industries. The conference highlighted AI applications in assessing learning processes, as well as general AI applications tailored to different fields.

Participation in 26th Congress of The Asian Association of Paediatric Surgeons

Professor Martin Corbally, Head of Department of Surgery, was invited to chair and present his keynote speech on the topic of “Management of the Complex Wilms Tumour” at the 26th Congress of The Asian Association of Paediatric Surgeons held from 20th to 22nd November in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam.

Invitation to the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress

In October, Dr Isam Mazin Juma, Senior Clinical Lecturer at RCSI Bahrain, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at King Hamad University Hospital, and President of the Bahrain Chapter of American College of Surgeons (ACS), attended the ACS Annual Clinical Congress in San Diego, US, on behalf of RCSI Bahrain.

Dr Jamal Hashem and Dr Colin Greengrass

Participation

in 16th Pan Arab Psychiatric Congress

In September, Professor Charlotte Kamel, Associate Professor and Head of Psychiatry Department, was the keynote speaker at the 16th Pan Arab Psychiatric Congress and 25th Emirates Society Mental Health International Congress, where she presented her research titled ‘Suicide, would it be legal?’.

This highlighted the importance of decriminalising suicidal behaviour to enable those suffering to receive the care and help they need and minimise the stigma surrounding mental health.

Participation in AGU-TDR-WHO Joint Workshop

Dr Nitya Kumar, RCSI Bahrain Senior Lecturer in Public Health & Epidemiology, represented the University at the “Capacity Building in Tropical Disease Implementation Research Methods & Ethics” workshop, organised by World Health Organization (WHO) and the WHO Collaborating Centre (WHOCC) for Health Professionals’ Educational Development at

the Arabian Gulf University (AGU) and TDR (Special Program for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases) from 6th to 8th November. The workshop was in line with the Centre’s mandate to provide training and courses in the areas of Best Evidence Medical Education and Evidence-Based Medicine.

Participation in Forum for MENA Open Research

In October, Dr Rabab Almuqahwi, Arabic Language Course Coordinator, represented RCSI Bahrain in the Forum for MENA Open Research held in Egypt. Dr Almuqahwi presented her research paper titled “Towards more visibility and accessibility of Arabic Language Research worldwide: identifying the challenges, the consequences, sharing current initiatives, and suggesting sustainable solutions”.

In addition, Dr Almuqahwi chaired a research panel titled ‘Overcoming Challenges to Open Science in MENA’ and attended an Open Research workshop.

Professor Charlotte Kamel

AdvanceHE Partnership and Certification Update

On 30th November, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain, welcomed Mr Kristian Rumble, International Partnerships Manager, Business Development and Delivery of AdvanceHE, for a meeting in the attendance of Dr Kathryn Strachan, Director of Quality and Academic Development and Ms Fatema Frutan, Professional Development Specialist. The discussions included the upcoming Aspire programme for Leaders in Higher Education and exploring areas for future collaboration.

Professor Otoom reiterated the importance of expert training in learning and teaching for staff and reaffirmed RCSI Bahrain’s support of the Certificate of Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (CLTHE) and Fellowship of AdvanceHe, currently offered to all faculty. To date, 33 staff members have completed the CLTHE, 22 staff

members are currently enrolled in the programme, and 14 trainers are co-delivering the CLTHE with AdvanceHE. In addition, eight staff members have received their fellowships and 20 more are expected to obtain their fellowships next year.

RCSI Bahrain hosts MFD Exams

On 7th and 8th November, RCSI Bahrain hosted the Membership of the Faculty of Dentistry (MFD) examinations following on from the preparatory programme for candidates. The MFD examinations are an extremely popular flagship examination of the Faculty of Dentistry of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (FoDRCSI), assessing dentists at approximately two years post-qualification.

The faculty also conducted a well-attended CPD day entitled ‘Healthcare Education Developments and an Update of Clinical Dentistry’, with keynote lectures from Professor Alfred Nicholson, RCSI Bahrain Vice President for Academic Affairs and Head of School of

Medicine, and Professor Albert Leung, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, RCSI in Dublin, on contemporary developments of healthcare education, particularly in the context of RCSI in Ireland, Bahrain and beyond.

Current CLTHE cohort

From left, Dr Kathryn Strachan, Professor Sameer Otoom, Mr Kristian Rumble and Ms Fatema Frutan

RCSI Bahrain Researchers among “World’s Top 2% Scientists”

Professor Stephen Atkin, Head of School of Postgraduate Studies and Research and Dr Alexandra Butler, Senior Research Fellow, were among the researchers featured in the prestigious “World’s Top 2% Scientists” list published by Stanford University, USA.

According to the Scopus database and the citation metrics used, Professor Atkin’s research has been cited 13,425 times by 11,297 publications and Dr Butler’s research has been cited 10,839 times by 8,141 publications, which is a testimony to the importance of their research work among the 180,000 active researchers worldwide.

Their research interests include insulin resistance, polycystic ovary syndrome and Type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes Research Collaboration with AGU

RCSI Bahrain and the Arabian Gulf University (AGU) are collaborating on a joint research project to measure the physical activity of Bahraini patients with Type 2 diabetes and explore psychological and environmental factors which influence their behaviour. With 15% of Bahrain’s population suffering from Type 2 diabetes, the ultimate goal of this project is to develop standard interventions to support the decrease of sedentary behaviour and potentially improve the incidence rate of Type 2 diabetes in the Bahraini population.

This joint research project is led by Professor Stephen Atkin, RCSI Bahrain Head of School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, and Professor Afif Bin Salih, AGU Vice Dean for Graduate Studies and Research. The project will run for a year and will be conducted at four primary healthcare centres with specialised diabetes clinics, where the research team will track the physical

First Fulbright Scholar

As part of RCSI Bahrain’s strategic aim to become a hub for clinical and patient-centred research, the University welcomed its first Fulbright Scholar, Ms Maria Morcos, at the beginning of the academic year. Ms Morcos is a graduate of the MSc Physician Assistant programme from Rochester Institute of Technology, New York, US.

During her year at RCSI Bahrain, Ms Morcos will be participating in a research project led by Professor Stephen Atkin, Head of School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, for the development of an educational programme to enable women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) to make lifestyle changes and reduce the risk of future PCOS-related complications.

She will also be supporting a research project led by Professor Ghufran Jassim, Associate Professor and Head of Department of Family Medicine, to develop

activity of 340 participants and collect required medical data. Dr Ebrahim Rajab, RCSI Bahrain Senior Lecturer in Biology and the Principal Investigator of this research project, will be joined by Professor Randah Hamadeh, AGU College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, and Dr Abeer AlSaweer, Consultant Family Physician and Diabetologist at AGU; Professor Edward Gregg, Professor at the School of Population Health, RCSI in Dublin, and Dr Lisa Mellon, School of Population Health Lecturer, RCSI in Dublin.

RCSI Bahrain is keen on developing patient-centred research which addresses key national health challenges, such as diabetes, which is a key research focus at the RCSI Bahrain Clinical and Biomolecular Research Centre. With this research collaboration with AGU, we aim to develop a solution that will be a major step in the lives of diabetic patients and will improve their quality of life.

recommendations and update guidelines in relation to the management of mild asthma in adults in the Middle East.

Professor Stephen Atkin

Dr Alexandra Butler

Professor Ghufran Jassim, Ms Maria Morcos and Professor Stephen Atkin

Oncology Research Opportunity with SBI ALApharma

On 30th November, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain; Professor Stephen Atkin, Head of School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, and Professor Uwe Torsten, Head of Department of

Obstetrics and Gynaecology, met with Professor Riyadh Rehani, President of SBI Pharmaceuticals Bahrain and Dr Ulrich Kosciessa, Chief Operating Officer of SBI ALApharma in Germany, to discuss possible collaboration on conducting oncology research with Photonamics Germany and SBI Japan. This initiative was discussed following the successful completion of two RCSI Bahrain research projects on COVID-19 and Diabetes Mellitus with SBI Pharma.

RCSI Bahrain Participates in First Manama Health Conference

RCSI Bahrain was delighted to participate in the first edition of the Manama Health Conference and EXPO, held by the National Health Regulatory Authority, under the patronage of His Excellency Lieutenant General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health, from 10th to 13th December. The conference was held in cooperation with Spine Medical, Egypt and included a number of scientific lectures by speakers from both countries, to present the latest developments in internal medicine, regenerative medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, sports medicine and rehabilitation, pathology and blood banking, as well as biomedical

engineering. Members of the RCSI Bahrain Clinical and Biomolecular Research Centre were present in the University booth at the expo to network with industry experts and professionals.

Top Three Winners of Research Review Competition 2022

In December, the University announced the top three winners of its Research Summer School – Research Review Competition 2022, held under the guidance of the School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, with the aim of introducing RCSI Bahrain undergraduate students to the world of research.

The first-place prize winners of the Research Review 2022 Competition were Ms Sania Shabbir, Ms Emaan Khurram, Ms Vedhika Moorthi and Mr Youssef Eissa for their review titled ‘The Interplay Between Androgens and the Immune Response in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome’, with the support of two mentors, Dr Alexandra Butler, RCSI Bahrain Senior Research Fellow and Dr Mohammad Kamal, former RCSI Bahrain Postdoctoral Research Fellow.

The second-place winners were Mr William Junior Khalil, Ms Meriem Akeblersane and Ms Ana Khan for their review titled ‘Environmental pollution and risk of developing metabolic disorders: Obesity and diabetes’, with the support of mentors Dr Butler and Dr Abu Saleh Moin, RCSI Bahrain Postdoctoral Research Fellow.

The third-place winners were Ms Prianna Menezes and Ms Isabell Lawrence, for their review titled ‘Evaluating the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the physicians’ psychological health; a scoping systematic review’, with the support of mentors Ms Shaista Salman, RCSI Bahrain Professionalism Lecturer and Professor Fiza Rashid-Doubell, former RCSI Bahrain Associate Professor in Physiology.

Welcoming New Students on Campus

RCSI Bahrain was delighted to welcome 356 new undergraduate students on campus for the start of the 2022-23 academic year. Under the School of Nursing and Midwifery, the Nursing Year 1 students were the first to commence, followed by the students from the School of Medicine enrolled in the Medical Commencement programme, Foundation Year and Medicine Year 1 programmes. During the course of their first week, new students participated in the orientation programme and Freshers’ activities with teaching starting the following week.

All new students were assigned a Buddy - a student from a more senior year acting as a guide - to support their transition to university.

For the 2022-23 academic year, RCSI Bahrain registered 54 Clubs and Societies, more than 40 of which have been active during the first semester, with a total of 114 events, 61 social activities, 41 sporting events and 12 academic-themed events.

International Citizenship Award Update

For the new academic year, 57 Med2 students enrolled in the International Citizenship Award (ICA) programme and completed mandatory workshops in cultural competency and reflective writing.

12 staff members are mentoring the students along their two-year ICA journey. 36 Med3 students have moved to the final year of the two-year programme and are expected to receive their awards at the end of semester two.

Med1 Learning Communities

As part of the Transforming Healthcare Education Programme (THEP) rolled out in Bahrain this academic year, the Med1 students were grouped in Learning Communities, (ie small groups) aimed at empowering them to develop personal and interpersonal skills at the same time as they develop knowledge in their discipline.

Med1 students and staff jointly developed the identities of the new Learning Communities (LC) namely, Air, Fire, Earth and Water with the sub-groups being North, South, East and West. Students in each Learning Community were provided with badges and lanyards to identify with their respective groups.

Professionalism Campaign

Under the Student Engagement and Partnership (StEP) programme and the Institutional Management domain, a Professionalism Awareness Campaign was organised by eight faculty and staff members and 17 students, during the first six weeks of the first semester.

Each week, all students were invited to attend a session or activities/events related to a specific aspect of professionalism set out as follows: Week 1: Walk the Walk, Talk the Talk; Week 2: Engagement = Success; Week 3: Professional Communications; Week 4: Academic Integrity; Week 5: Professionalism Demystified; Week 6: Self-Care for Professionals.

RCSI Bahrain would like to thank the organisers for their initiative and the participants for their commitment to professionalism.

StEP Open Forum

In December, an Open Forum for the Student Engagement and Partnership (StEP) programme was held for all staff and students interested in becoming a StEP Champion or supporter. The forum covered ongoing projects in each StEP domain, in addition to new ideas for collaborative projects between staff and students.

First Influenza Immunisation Campaign on campus

In October, under the Student Engagement and Partnership (StEP) programme and the Local Community and Social Environment domain, an Influenza Immunisation Campaign was organised by the relevant group of staff and students. In partnership with the Ministry of Health, KIMS Hospital, the Human Resources Department and the student Primary Care and Public Health Society, an immunisation clinic was facilitated on campus. It was the first time in Bahrain that an Influenza vaccination clinic operated outside of

clinical sites. A total of 118 free influenza vaccinations were administered to 33 staff members, 83 senior medical students and two family members.

In support of the campaign, Professor Manaf Alqahtani, Head of the Microbiology Department, RCSI Bahrain, delivered a lecture to staff and students on precautions to follow in preparation for the influenza season.

Mentorship Programme Update

Originally launched in the academic year 2017-18, the RCSI Bahrain Student Mentorship Programme is now being restructured and enhanced as a StEP initiative in the domain of Institutional Management. In December,

Buddy Programme Update

At the start of the academic year, 53 School of Medicine Buddies and 21 School of Nursing & Midwifery Buddies chaperoned the new cohorts of students to guide them in their transition to University at RCSI Bahrain.

Mr Faris Al Madi, Senior Cycle 2 student and student lead for the Mentorship Programme, collaborated with Dr Wendy Maddison, Head of Student Development and Wellbeing, and Ms Asal Kazerooni, Student Engagement & Learning Support Specialist, to deliver a training session for new student mentors who joined the programme. The Student Mentorship Programme supports the student community in developing skills, expanding networks, and encouraging the sharing of expertise, experiences and knowledge for personal and professional development. 56 students in different years from both the School of Medicine and School of Nursing and Midwifery attended the mentor briefing and training session.

Student Travel Award

In November, Mr Ali Mardini, Med3 student, received a Conference & Travel Award to present a paper titled, “Eyeing up the pandemic: A literature review of the ocular manifestations of COVID-19”, at the Second International Conference on Nursing and Women’s Healthcare held in Paris, France.

PathWay Programme

The PathWay Programme forms an important component of the first-year students’ orientation and provides them with guidance and information during the first semester. Students completed four online sessions: Self-Care for Success; Academic Study Strategies; Professionalism and Academic Integrity; and Signposting Places. Peer-led presentations were provided by senior students to give their younger colleagues tips on how to succeed at university.

Building Resilience for Success Workshop

The Student Health and Wellbeing Unit hosted a workshop on Building Resilience for all students, led by psychologist Ms Razan Shaheen and therapist Mr Fares Zubari from the Insights Therapy Centre. The workshop focused on overcoming obstacles, adapting to change and developing a positive self-image. Building resilience in healthcare has been shown to improve results for increasing well-being, reducing burnout and improving job and life satisfaction.

Mr Ali Mardini

SMILE Initiative

In September, the Community Outreach office held a number of fundraising activities in support of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The fundraising activities were held in collaboration with a local charity, The Smile Initiative. With the support of student and staff volunteers, RCSI Bahrain held a zumba and yoga class with all proceeds being donated to the charity.

On 31st October, RCSI Bahrain welcomed Mr Sabah

Clothes Donation Drive

Abdul Rahman Al Zayani, Chairman of the Future Society for Youth, along with a number of board members from The Smile Initiative, which includes RCSI Bahrain Head of Language and Cultural Unit, Dr Amal Al-Qallaf, to formally receive the cheque. The event was attended by Professor Sameer Otoom, RCSI Bahrain President; Professor Rebecca Jester, former Head of School of Nursing & Midwifery and Mr Fadi Ghosn, Head of Recognition, Careers and Alumni.

From 31st October to 7th November, the Green Initiative Society and the Community Outreach office invited students and staff to donate used clean clothes. After a successful Donation Drive, the clothes and goods collected were donated by the Community Outreach office and the President of the Green Initiative Society, Senior Cycle 2 student, Mr Mohamad Diab, to the Migration Workers Protection Society at their premises. On this occasion, the Green Initiative Society promoted small lifestyle changes such as using reusable or biodegradable grocery bags, and recycling or avoiding single-use plastics to promote the reduction of carbon footprint.

Movember Awareness Talk

On 28th November, Dr Hani Malik, Lecturer in Family Medicine, presented a talk on “Men’s Mental Health” and the different challenges men face, including the cultural and societal stigma of masculinity in today’s society.

Dr Malik presented various communication strategies on how to reach out to men dealing with mental health problems. He concluded his talk by bringing awareness to the importance of mental health and the role the community can play in supporting those suffering.

At the end of the talk, Mr Hazem Tariq, CSS Communications Coordinator, was selected as the winner of the best-grown moustache this year.

Dr Amal Al-Qallaf, Professor Sameer Otoom, Mr Sabah Al Zayani and Smile Initiative board member

Breast Cancer Awareness Activities

In support of Breast Cancer Awareness, the Community Outreach office held a series of activities throughout the month of October.

On 14th October, RCSI Bahrain staff and student volunteers from Community Engagement joined the Bahrain Cancer Society Walk-A-Thon at the Water Garden City in support of encouraging people of different age groups to participate in various awareness activities for a healthier, cancer-free society.

On campus, Professor Nuha Birido, Associate Professor of Surgery and Academic Director of Clinical Simulation, hosted a workshop and talk for students

and staff on the stages and prevalence of breast cancer and the proper techniques for self-assessment.

The Library & Learning Resources Centre (LLRC) supported the campaign by creating a display of books and theses on breast cancer, hosting a charity book sale and a Tree of Hope where students and staff left positive messages to patients and survivors.

Professor Stephen Atkin, Head of School of Postgraduate Studies & Research, in the presence of Dr Bindhu Nair, Manager of Library & Learning Resource Centre and the LLRC team, handed over the donation for the Bahrain Cancer Society to Mr Fadi Ghosn, Head of Recognition, Careers & Alumni.

“Pink Day” at the Royal Police Academy

On 3rd November, Ms Fatima Aldaylami, English Lecturer and member of the Language and Cultural Unit, attended the “Pink Day” event held at the Royal Police Academy in collaboration with the Middle East Hospital, the Bahrain Medical Society and the Bahrain Cancer Society.

Diabetes Mobile Unit Update

His Excellency Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health with RCSI Bahrain students

The Diabetes Mobile Unit (DMU) continues to raise awareness among the child population in Bahrain on the risk of Type 2 diabetes, thanks to the volunteering efforts of students and staff members of the School of Nursing and Midwifery. Among the multiple school visits held during the first semester, on 17th November, the DMU visited the newly established school, Abdulrahman Kanoo School in Diyar Al Muharraq. Also in November, the DMU was invited to participate in a local ‘World Diabetes Day’ event organised by the Bahrain Diabetes Society, under the patronage of His Excellency Lieutenant General Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health and in the attendance of Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health at the Ministry of Health, Dr Maryam Al-Hajri. Ms Danah Smith, Lecturer in Nursing and Dr Maryam Alaradi, Senior Lecturer in Nursing, RCSI Bahrain, were given a token of appreciation for the DMU’s continued efforts in promoting awareness to school children on the risks, symptoms and preventative measures of Type 2 diabetes.

Partnership with Royal Life Saving Bahrain

RCSI Bahrain was invited to attend the Royal Life Saving Bahrain (RLSB) press launch for their new initiative called the ‘Safer Community Partnership’ and MOU signing event, hosted by Her Highness Shaikha Nayla Bint Hamad bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, Chairperson and Founder of Royal Life Saving Bahrain. RLSB launched the Safer Community Partnership initiative to empower communities with skills, knowledge, and confidence to save lives. We look forward to working closely with RLSB on the training of RCSI Bahrain staff and student volunteers with internationally certified water safety first aid courses.

Al Bilad Social Responsibility Awards Ceremony

Under the Patronage of His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Chairman of the Board of Al-Bilad newspaper, RCSI Bahrain was invited to attend the Al Bilad Shield for Companies’ Social Responsibility Awards Ceremony held on 25th September in the presence of Mr Abdulnabi Al-Shola, Chairman of Al Bilad newspaper. Two members of the Communications team, Ms Christina Gallagher, Senior Communications Specialist, and Ms Doaa Magdy, Communications Specialist, represented RCSI Bahrain at the event.

School of Nursing and Midwifery students

International Community Engagement – Trip to Vietnam

As part of the university’s International Community Engagement programme in partnership with Operation Childlife, a cohort of student volunteers travelled to Vietnam in December. Professor Martin Corbally, Professor and Head of Surgery Department, RCSI Bahrain, led the student volunteers from the Undergraduate Medicine programme (Senior Cycle 2), Mr Saad Mallah, Mr Faris AlMadi, and Ms Hend Anwar, and from the Undergraduate Nursing programme (Nursing Year 4), Ms Zainab Alderaz, to two hospitals in Vietnam’s capital Ho Chi Minh. The volunteers attended complex paediatric surgeries and discovered different cases of non-communicable diseases prevalent in the country.

American Mission Hospital’s Island Classic Charity Golf Tournament

RCSI Bahrain participated in the American Mission Hospital’s Island Classic Charity Golf Tournament held in October under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Through the Community Engagement office, staff members participated in the Golf Tournament, as well as the American Mission Hospital’s 23rd Year Anniversary Island Classic Gala Dinner. Funds raised by the tournament’s organising committee were donated in the form of free medical treatments to the community.

Cancer Donation

The Community Outreach office coordinated the fund-raising activities for Breast Cancer and Movember. A total of 1,400 BD was raised during October and November.

The proceedings were donated to Think Pink (Breast Cancer NGO)l and the President of Bahrain Cancer Society (BCS) Dr Abdulrahman Fakhro, in the presence of Think Pink Communication Lead, Mr Sultan Mohamed, and BCS Executive Manager, Mr Ahmed Ali.

Community Engagement

Professor Martin Corbally with the student volunteers

Community Outreach with Bahrain Cancer Society President and representatives

Community Outreach office hand donation to Mr Sultan Mohamed

Alumni Talks

In October, Dr Rand Abdulrahman and Dr Maan Abdulrahman (both Class of 2020) visited RCSI Bahrain for a talk on the UK Foundation Programme with a focus on Foundation Year 2. During the session, they discussed the application process and their experiences in relation to the match and life in the UK.

Another evening online information session for students applying to the 2023 UK Foundation Programme was led by Dr Jayaditya Patil, Dr Khalid Shamiyah, and Dr Ali Mahmood (all Class of 2022). The three alumni currently working as Foundation Year 1 Doctors, presented an outline of the application process, SJT and guidance on medical training pathways in the UK. The session was facilitated by Dr Helen Cooper, Lecturer in Medicine, RCSI Bahrain.

On 30th October, Dr Nermin Abozenah (Class of 2019), currently completing her residency in ENT at the University Hospital of Marburg, gave a talk about the German Pathway. She discussed the career pathway and the residency application process in Germany.

On 2nd November, Captain Dr Fares Uddin (Class of 2013), a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon currently working with the Royal Guards, Bahrain Defence Force, came to the campus to share his experiences and career pathway. He shared information on the Saudi Board Residency and Canadian fellowship, as well as his future career plans and the future of sports medicine in Bahrain. Captain Dr Uddin was joined by Professor Robert Litchfield from the University of Western Ontario, who discussed Sports Medicine.

On 9th November, Dr Omar Ahmed Barakat (Class of 2022) visited campus to give a talk about the pathway to the United Kingdom. He focused on the clinical life of a Foundation Doctor and provided advice on living and working in the UK. Dr Barakat is currently completing his Foundation Year 1 training in General Surgery (Colorectal) at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, UK.

On 16th November, Dr Mohamed Almajed (Class of 2020) spoke on the pathway to the USA and his experience with residency. He started his residency in Internal Medicine in 2021 at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, USA. He is now a second-year resident planning to apply for a fellowship in Cardiology. Following Dr Almajed’s presentation, Senior Cycle 1 student Mr Yousef Waly, discussed the USMLE Step 1 examination in further detail.

On 20th November, the Orthopaedic Society virtually hosted Dr Ahmed Al Khalifa (Class of 2012) to discuss his career pathway in Orthopaedics. Dr Al Khalifa completed his Orthopaedic Surgery residency at the University of Toronto. He is currently a Clinical Fellow in Trauma and Arthroplasty at the University of Toronto.

On 27th November, Dr Tharmegan Tharmaratnam (Class

of 2021) participated in a talk on the Canadian Pathway. He is currently a PGY-1 Family Medicine Resident at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver as part of the University of British Columbia. He shared information on the match process, Canadian board exams and his experiences. He led an excellent question and answer session to provide students with further insights and advice on matching to Canada.

Dr Rand Abdulrahman

Captain Dr Fares Uddin

Dr Omar Ahmed Barakat

US Pathway, Residency Talk and ERAS Interview

On 7th November, RCSI Bahrain welcomed delegates from George Washington University, USA. Dr Huda Ayas, Associate Dean for International Medicine at the School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS), Founder and Executive Director of the Office of International Medicine Programmes, Director of three interdisciplinary medicine courses, Director of the Global Health Track, and Professional Lecturer of Global Health in the Milken Institute of Public Health at the George Washington University, joined by Ms Shereen Toubaji, Programme Manager for the International Residency and Fellowship Programmes, Office of International Medicine Programmes at SMHS, discussed the residency application process, including changes to the 2022/2023 residency cycle, new trends in medical education in the USA and shared match strategies with students.

On 10th October, Professor Majd Zayzafoon, Associate Provost for International Education, Assistant Dean for International Medical Education, visited RCSI Bahrain to discuss the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s IVMS (International Visiting Medical Student Programme) and navigating the Pathway to residency in the US.

French Residency Training

In October, three RCSI Bahrain alumni received the B2 French Language Diplomas from His Excellency Mr Jerome Cauchard, French Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain. Dr Hamad Adel Hamad (Class of 2019), Dr Abubaker Jadalla (Class of 2018), and Dr Muneera Rabeea (Class of 2015) received the diplomas as part of the intergovernmental initiative launched in 2019 following the visit of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to France.

This recognition will support the graduates with their specialisation residency training in France over the next four to six years.

To support students and graduates through the interview process for the US match, the Careers Office organised ERAS interview preparation sessions with Professor Dalal AlRomaihi, former Consultant Endocrinologist at King Hamad University Hospital. Professor AlRomaihi is an American Board-Certified physician with extensive experience with residency interviews in the US. The two sessions took place on 23rd October and 27th October, and covered general interview techniques and tips, role-play feedback and reflection.

US Electives – Student Experiences

On 6th November, a group of senior medical students presented to their colleagues on their summer electives in the US. Senior Cycle 2 students, Mr Mohamed Diab, Ms Yumna Salman, Mr Ali Ayub, Mr Kamel Ikbariah and Mr Faris AlMadi shared their experiences at Hazelden Betty Ford Center, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Yale, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Cleveland Clinic and Lahey Hospital respectively.

Careers and Alumni

Dr Huda Ayas

Professor Majd Zayzafoon

Nursing Specialty Talk

On 10th October, as part of the Nursing Specialty Talk Series, Professor Julie Green, Head of School of Nursing & Midwifery at Keele University, UK, presented to Nursing Year 3 students on the topic of ‘A masterclass in community nursing in the United Kingdom’.

This session was the first in a new initiative that aims to help nursing students explore different pathways available to them.

UK Alumni Reunion at the Royal Society of Medicine

On 10th September, the Careers and Alumni office hosted a reunion event at the Royal Society of Medicine in London, UK, to strengthen engagement with our alumni network. More than 90 graduates attended the event alongside officials from RCSI Bahrain and RCSI in Dublin, who helped deliver the programme for the evening.

The reunion commenced with a presentation by Mr Stephen Harrison-Mirfield, Managing Director of RCSI Bahrain, on key developments and campus advancements. Professor Alfred Nicholson, RCSI Bahrain Vice President for Academic Affairs and Head of School of Medicine and Ms Aine Gibbons, Director of Development, Alumni Relations, Fellows and members at RCSI in Dublin, addressed the alumni and expressed their pride to witness the professional progress the graduates have made and reiterated the support offered to the RCSI global alumni network. Professor David Misselbrook, former RCSI Bahrain Associate Professor in Family Medicine and Chair of the Research Ethics Committee, was also invited to address the graduates and celebrate their success over the years. The event concluded with Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain, inviting the alumni in attendance to participate in a feedback session to help develop new ideas and initiatives.

Representing the Royal Society of Medicine (RSM), Mr Gavin Berkerey, Head of Membership and Marketing, and Professor Nik Patel, Chair of Academic Board and Trustee, attended the reunion to commemorate the occasion and achievements of our graduates. RCSI Bahrain’s collaboration with the RSM to support first-year graduates in their career development has been greatly helpful, leading to opportunities for engagement and networking.

The RSM is a registered charity and membership organisation with a vision to better healthcare for better lives. As an RSM member, students have access to wider healthcare communities and networks as well as educational, research and networking resources and events.

Professor Julie Green

Alumni Awarded MSc in Nursing Scholarship

Ms Dana Alabbadi (Class of 2019), Ms Sara Otaifa (Class of 2017), Mr Mahmood Aljazeeri (Class of 2014), and Mr Jawad Saleh (Class of 2013) were awarded the RCSI Bahrain MSc Nursing Scholarship. They started the programme at the beginning of the 2022-2023 academic year.

The scholarship programme was launched in 2021 and was offered exclusively to graduates of RCSI Bahrain’s undergraduate nursing programme, with the aim of recognising and rewarding the significant contributions of our alumni to the healthcare sector. Scholarship recipients were selected by a panel of senior staff

members on the back of a formal application process, which required the submission of academic references and a personal statement outlining how the MSc in Nursing would contribute to the individual’s development in clinical leadership.

The MSc Nursing programme at RCSI Bahrain has been developed with clinical nursing practice at its core and based on the knowledge that nursing is an interactive caring process, which is patient-centred, and that nurses constantly consolidate their practice with formal educational preparation.

Class of 2012 Tenth Anniversary Reunion and 2022 Inspiring Excellence Portrait Unveiling Ceremony

Under the patronage of Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Bahrain, the Alumni team hosted an alumni reunion event for the Classes of 2012, to commemorate their ten-year graduation anniversary and announce the winners of the 2022 Inspiring Excellence Award.

The reunion commenced with a presentation by Mr Stephen Harrison-Mirfield, Managing Director of RCSI Bahrain, detailing on-campus advancements and developments. Professor Alfred Nicholson, RCSI Bahrain Vice President for Academic Affairs and Head of School of Medicine, addressed the alumni and expressed his pride in witnessing the professional progress made by the Class of 2012 alumni and reiterated the continuous commitment and support offered to the alumni.

The event proceeded with the announcement of Dr Mona Albanna (School of Medicine, Class of 2012) and Ms Myrna Traboulssi (MSc Nursing, Class of 2018) as the winners of the 2022 Inspiring Excellence Award and the unveiling of their portraits. The award aims to inspire students and visitors to the University by showcasing the outstanding achievements of the winners in the form of a gallery of portraits along the walls of the University’s atrium.

Careers and Alumni

2022 Inspiring Excellence Award winners

Solar Farm Project

The Solar Farm project construction is progressing and on schedule.

The HUB roof and car park, Service Building, staff and student car parks have been completed and commissioned to the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) to start producing electricity to meet the University’s needs.

First ECO Focus Pod

In its pursuit of being an environmentally sustainable campus, RCSI Bahrain was proud to open its first Eco Focus Pod, in October.

The Eco Focus Pod, located near The HUB, is powered by solar panels and offers an additional work or study space for students.

GOOD HEALTH & WELL-BEING 3

• ‘Prince Salman bin Hamad Medal for Medical Merit’ was awarded as a national recognition of all the efforts made by RCSI Bahrain staff and students to support the health sector during the COVID-19 pandemic

• Launch of Bahrain’s first Biomolecular and Clinical Research Centre with seven Doctors of Philosophy (PhD holders) and five Postdoctorates dedicated to Diabetes, the most prevalent disease nationally

• Health Research focused on Bahrain: 46 Bahrain-focused publications issued in 37 international journals, 356 citations (Source: SciVal 2010-2022)

• Health and Wellbeing in the community: over 200 events and over 11,000 volunteering hours contributed to supporting local and international communities since 2012

• USD2,700 raised and donated to SMILE initiative in 2022 in support of the wellbeing of children cancer patients and their families

4

QUALITY EDUCATION

• 491 Doctors and 1,125 Nurses RCSI Bahrain Alumni working in Bahrain

• Accreditation by the Higher Education Council (HEC) in Bahrain and the Bahrain Education & Training Quality Authority (BQA), the Irish Medical Council (IMC) and collaboration with the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI)

5

GENDER EQUALITY

• 60% of full-time personnel are female, 53% of female personnel pursued higher education (Masters / Doctoral degree) or enrolment with professional membership / Fellowship

7

AFFORDABLE & CLEAN ENERGY

• Launch of the Solar Farm project in June 2022 covering 12,000sqm with estimated electricity production: 3.54 MWh yearly, representing circa 60% of current electricity consumption of RCSI Bahrain and an Annual C02 savings of 2,247 metric tonnes/year

8

DECENT WORK & ECONOMIC GROWTH

• 42% of full time staff at RCSI Bahrain are Bahraini nationals as of November 2022

• Investment in capital expenditure standing at $100m

• Annual contribution to Bahrain economy standing at $40m

9

INDUSTRY, INNOVATION & INFRASTRUCTURE

• Establishment of National Clinical Trial unit: in 2020, RCSI Bahrain was nominated to establish, facilitate and support the national response for all COVID-19 clinical trials in Bahrain; advisory role to date

• Bahrain as a medical research hub: RCSI Bahrain is the leader in interventional clinical studies in Bahrain since April 2020 (Source: clinicaltrials.gov)

• Introducing a Technology Enhanced Learning incubator to research E-learning and Educational Neuroscience

10

REDUCED INEQUALITIES

• 123 volunteering hours contributed in 2021 to DREAM BIG, a charitable organisation providing English lessons as a foreign language to underprivileged children in Bahrain

11

SUSTAINABLE CITIES & COMMUNITIES

• No Smoking policy on campus

• Health Education: over 4,800 children tutored on Type II diabetes prevention since 2012

• WHO Healthy Cities MOU signed with Muharraq Governorate in February 2022

12

RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION & PRODUCTION

• Reduce (lighting and temperature controls, paperless drive, reduction in single use plastic), Reuse (regular initiative promoting reusable RCSI cups and bottles), Recycle (recycling bins) policy across campus

• Member of Stc Trees for Life since 2022 with an annual contribution of 500 trees planted in Bahrain

17

PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE GOALS

• Six Partner Hospitals in Bahrain

• Six Agreements to support Community Service in Bahrain in 2022/2023

• WHO EMRO Healthy Universities guest speaker hosted in September 2022

• Cooperation Agreement signed with Primary Healthcare Centres in October 2022 to support education, training and scientific research

• Innovative “Future Nurses Bahrain” initiative under the Patronage of the Chairman of Supreme Council of Health widening access to nursing careers in Bahrain since 2022

proudly serving the Kingdom of Bahrain since 2004

ROYAL COLLEGE OF SURGEONS IN IRELAND Medical University of Bahrain

RCSI Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

Medical University of Bahrain

P.O. Box 15503, Adliya Kingdom of Bahrain