LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
AMEE The Association for Medical Education at Europe
AQ Academic Quality
AWP Annual Working Plan
CB DA Capacity Building Development Assistant
GA General Assembly
GAP Global Action Project
IFMSA International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations
IT International Team
LSR Liaison Officer for Science & Research Issues
NMO National Member Organisation
NORE National Officer on Research Exchange
OLM Online Meetings
PRET Professional & Research Exchange Training
RA Regional Assistant
READY Research Education: Advancement & Development for Youth
RM Regional Meeting
SRT Sub-Regional Training
ST Sessions Team
SWG Small Working Group
TNET Training New Exchange Trainers
TNRT Training New Research Trainers
TO Team of Officials
EDUCATION
2019 - 2026
EXPERIENCE
IFMSA Positions :
Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
● International: SCORE Regional Assistant for Asia-Pacific, 2022-23
● National:
○ National Officer on Research Exchange (Outgoing), 2022-23
○ National Exchange Officer ad interim, 2022-23
● Local:
○ Local Committee President, 2021-22
○ LORE/LEO, 2020-21
○ Local PR-SM Officer, 2019-20
IFMSA Meetings:
General Assembly Regional Meeting
SCORE ST, AM23 Head of Delegation & Exchange ST Coordinator, APRM23
SCORE Sessions, MM22
SCORE Sessions, AM21
IFMSA Experience :
● International:
Exchange ST, APRM22
Exchange Sessions, APRM21
■ Policy Commission, Open Science, AM23
NGA
Exchange ST Coordinator, NGA23
OC-CoChair, NGA22
NMO Management, NGA22
Exchange Sessions, NGA21
■ Policy Commission, Intercultural Learning and Competencies in Healthcare, MM23
■ Health Committee, APRM 2023
■ Code of Conduct Committee, APRM 2022.
■ IFMSA SWG Coordinator on AP SIG Advocacy in Medical Education
■ IFMSA SWG Member: SCORE Strategic Plan 2022-25, TNET Reforms, Mental Health Framework
■ IFMSA SWG SCORE IT Representative: Open Access Week 2022, UHC Day 2022, World Environment Day 2023 - Green Exchanges
● National:
■ Plenary Vice-Chairperson, NGA 2023
■ Chairperson, SC on Research & Innovation in Health Care, WHO Simulation 2023
■ Director of Venue, TOM 2023 & TOM 2022
■ Co-Director of Venue & Logistics, SRT 2022
■ Public Relations OC, NGA 2021
■ Co-Director of Venue, TOM 2021
■ Public Relations OC, Virtual ACTION 2020
■ BMSS SWG Coordinator: Health Innovation Research Program, Exchanges Booklet, BMSS Open Access Week Campaign
External Meetings :
● International:
○ IFMSA Delegation to Open Education Conference 2022
○ Global AMR Youth Summit 2.0 & 3.0
● National:
○ Health Innovation Ecosystem: A way forward to combat Antibiotics Resistance
○ Institute of Research, Innovation, Incubation and Commercialization Conference
○ Tobacco Control Policy Research Grant Program
Scientific Experience & Conferences :
● Proposed Abstract & got accepted at AMEE Conference 2023
● Proposed Abstracts at WONCA World Conference 2023
● Proposed Abstracts at Open Education Conference 2023
● Proposed Abstracts at Nutrition Expo and Allied Public Health Conference
● Proposed Abstracts at Research Findings Dissemination Conference
Capacity Building: Trainers Pool [Portfolio Here]
● TNET Trainer, PreAM 2023
● PRET Workshop Coordinator, PreAPRM 2023
● AMOC Facilitator, Online
● TNT, SRT 2022, Bangladesh
● PRET, PreAPRM 2022
● READY, PreAPRM 2021
● OGHA, Africa Region 2021
● Disaster Management Training, Virtual ACTION2020
LANGUAGES SKILLS
Language Level Team Management
Bangla Native Strategic Planning
MOTIVATION
Dear IFMSA and Dark Blue Family,
I am Sharif Mohammed Sadat, a 4th year medical student from Bangladesh As I sit here, putting together my application for the prestigious position of SCORE Director, a deep sense of emotion and unwavering determination fill my being. This opportunity means more to me than just a role; it represents my unyielding passion, unwavering dedication, and heartfelt commitment to making a meaningful impact on medical research and exchange.
This past year, as the SCORE Regional Assistant for Asia Pacific, I embarked on a remarkable journey, unlocking the doors to the IFMSA family and gaining a new dimension of understanding. There are moments in life that you can't help but treasure because they mold you unlike any other experiences. These moments have a profound impact towards discovering your true calling. One such occasion is ACTION 2020, when I had the opportunity to serve on the organizing committee in 2019. It still feels like a dream, but one that you see while awake and never want to end, when I look back and consider where it all started. Each opportunity has further nourished my passion and affirmed my ability to inspire and empower others through training.
Having had the privilege of working on multiple SWGs in IFMSA, I got the opportunity to make significant contributions in various areas. Through my active involvement in the various SWGs, I gained a comprehensive understanding of our collective requirements when it comes to exchanges and research evaluation. These experiences have provided me with valuable insights into the intricacies of these areas, allowing me to develop a strong grasp on the overall needs and challenges we face in promoting effective exchanges and conducting thorough research appraisals.
In my role as NORE-Outgoing in my beloved NMO, BMSS-Bangladesh, I have dedicated myself to facilitating research exchange opportunities for medical students from our country. Concurrently, as an NEO ad interim, I have actively engaged in exchange-related discussions, collaborated with other stakeholders to enhance the quality of exchanges, and worked towards improving the overall exchange experience for our members. This parallel engagement in my NMO and IFMSA has allowed me to create a strong link between the two, as I bring valuable insights and experiences from my NMO work to the international arena and vice versa This synergy among local, national and global initiatives has proven immensely beneficial for research and exchange endeavors. By bridging the gap and establishing a two-way flow of information, I have helped create a mutually reinforcing relationship. Local insights and experiences contribute to shaping international
policies and guidelines, while global perspectives inform and enrich our local programs. Through my continued involvement in both my NMO and IFMSA, I am committed to fostering such experiences, facilitating knowledge exchange, and continuously improving the research and exchange experiences for our members around the world
As the prospective Director, I envision a role that goes beyond mere administration and takes an active stance toward making a tangible difference within the IFMSA community. I believe in breaking down barriers and ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all students, regardless of their background. One of my key aspirations is to extend research initiatives beyond exchanges I envision a scenario where these initiatives reach grassroots communities through programs & activities. By actively involving these communities in research endeavors, we can address their specific health needs, promote health equity, and have a meaningful impact on their lives.
By nurturing a supportive and empowering environment, we can unlock the potential of every student and create a network of change-makers who are dedicated to improving global health. Together, with the collective efforts of the IFMSA and Dark Blue Family, we can cultivate a future where research and exchange transcend traditional boundaries, address health disparities, and have a lasting impact on communities worldwide
After years of being reinforced under my beloved SCORE, I finally see myself being able to give back to the community I own Fueling a network of young research enthusiasts who are engaged both locally and internationally, making it easier for them to access research exchange initiatives, I seek to cultivate culturally aware learners and accomplished researchers who are eager to influence the field of science and capacitate through numerous possibilities. With further opportunities, this year I am here to incite more accessibility and transparency by generating open space and contributing to OUR own empowerment
1. Sustainability: Nurturing Members and Fostering NMO Development
1.1 NOREs Empowerment:
● Proper Handover: Assess the NMO Handover Process through the NORE Reports and Needs Assessment Form. Update the current NORE Handover Manual in collaboration with the SCOPE CB DA and RAs. Promote the use of Handover Manual in NMOs through training and sessions during GAs and RMs, and emails and specific training on IFMSA Online Training Platform.
● NOREs Working Calendar: This unique tool will consolidate all crucial deadlines, tasks and events specific to NOREs' roles. It provides a comprehensive overview of important activities and allows NOREs to plan and allocate resources efficiently.
● Reforming Biannual NORE Training Camps: The bi-annual NORE Training Camps are a transformative initiative, empowering NOREs with the knowledge and skills required for the attainment of Voting Rights before each GA. Held twice a year to accommodate the rotational nature of NORE positions, these camps are meticulously tailored based on Needs Assessments and previous NORE Reports. To increase NOREs ownership for maximum impact for the NTC & to increase engagement, the contents & session flow will be incorporated according to participants input.
● Recognizing Excellence; Best NORE of the Camp: To further incentivize effectiveness and increase engagement, this program aims to acknowledge individuals who have demonstrated exceptional performance in their respective NMOs & is quite engaged throughout the Training Camp.
1.2 Member Engagement:
● Observership on SCORE IT OLMs: Opening Call for Observers in different IT OLMs is an excellent strategy to engage members and familiarize them with the work of SCORE IT. By providing opportunities for individuals to observe and gain insights into SCORE IT initiatives, you can inspire their interest and encourage them to contribute more actively to SCORE.
● SCORE Newsletter: Publish SCORE Newsletter bi-annually to share updates on IT Projects, SCORE Activities & programs around the world and promote research related opportunities.
● Regional & Gender Representation: Enhance the regional and gender representation in the different SCORE projects and embolden the value of 8
diversity. Boost the calls for SCORE opportunities in the different social media platforms and IFMSA servers to ensure better coverage.
● SCORE Calendar: Develop a SCORE calendar that entails the timeline of all the opportunities and projects that the IT will work on to allow the members to plan prior to the call itself
1.3 SCORE IT that ensures Transparency:
● SCORE IT Cafe: Continuing the SCORE IT Cafe is indeed a crucial step in fostering connection and collaboration between SCORE IT and local and national levels. These interactive spaces serve as valuable platforms for sharing updates, exchanging ideas, and addressing challenges faced. SCORE IT Cafe promotes collaboration and ensures transparency of SCORE IT.
● SCORE IT Monthly Report: Sharing the IT Monthly report with the achievements, struggles and plans of the IT of every month through emails in the SCORE Server & SCORE facebook group to ensure transparency of the work of the IT
1.4 Addressing Visa-Related Challenges:
According to the MM23 NORE Report, 36.4% of the external problems are visa issues. The obstacles posed by visa-related issues have impacted numerous exchanges, demanding prompt attention and effective solutions. To tackle the identified problem, two key strategies are proposed:
● Promoting the updated Manual on Visa Issues to provide guidance to students for the facilitation of a smoother visa application process
● Support Letter Templates that serve as supporting documents during visa processes. These templates will include a proof of accommodation template, an invitation letter from the host university/tutor, and support letters in collaboration with SCOPE D, LSR and VPA.
1.5 Enhancing the Database Experience:
● Updating Database manual with more visualization & promoting it through RAs and enforcing them to use it
● Promoting Database Problems Report Form that serves the purpose of collecting information about problems experienced with Database, allowing SCORE IT to address and resolve these issues, while also sharing the most common issues with the Database Company to enhance the platform and solve bugs.
1.6 Addressing Sudden Cancellations/Late CAs:
Creating a SWG comprising of ITs & NORE Representatives, to explore possible steps for addressing the issues of Sudden Cancellations as well as Late CAs. The SWG members will engage in reviewing NORE reports, accumulating perspectives, brainstorming solutions and recommendations as well.
1.7 Financial Sustainability Toolkit for Exchanges:
According to the MM23 NORE Report, 28 6% problems are with Financial issues with exchanges. To overcome this issue, a Toolkit will be developed in collaboration with the VPF and SCOPE based on the analysis of Needs Assessment & NEO/NORE Reports. This toolkit can provide valuable guidance and resources to help NMOs improve their financial management and ensure the sustainability of their exchange programs.
1.8 Elevating Excellence of Academic Quality:
Academic Quality, being the backbone of Exchanges, is an important aspect of ensuring a high standard of educational experiences for students participating in exchanges. To achieve this goal, a survey will be conducted to assess the current level of AQ in different NMOs and approach the problems with a subjective toolkit to upgrade the AQ in different NMOs A weeklong campaign will be designed covering different important topics like How to maintain SCORE Logbook, Effective PDTs and UATs, Tutor Selection, Outgoing selection and so on to ensure AQ in Exchanges.
1.9 Implementation of the SCORE Strategic Plan 2022-2025:
● Orientation and Explanation: Introduce the SCORE Strategic Plan 2022-2025 to the SCORE IT members & clearly explain the objectives of the plan and divide tasks and responsibilities among the IT members accordingly. Familiarize Strategic Plan to the regions by keeping a session on RMs as well.
● Division of Tasks: Analyzing & incorporating part of the Strategy in the AWP of SCORE IT & assigning relevant tasks to relevant IT.
● Timelines and Tracking Sheets: Prepare a specific timeline and tracking sheet for the 2023-2024 term, which will be adopted by the SCORE IT and integrated into their AWP.
● Progress Monitoring: Regularly monitor the implementation progress of the SCORE Strategy by accessing the complications of AWP for each of the IT members every three months and make necessary amendments to the implementation timeline.
2. Capacity Building & Academic Quality: Empowering NMOs
2.1 Re-evaluation of TNET:
The re-evaluation of TNET is a crucial process to assess its effectiveness and ensure its alignment with current needs. TNET reforms were shaped by the SWG to update the regulations and promote its use in RMs. Now, it is necessary to conduct a re-evaluation of TNET in accordance with the new regulations. Organizing a TNET in the RMs alongside with GAs will contribute in capacitating more people and making more exchange trainers in different regions. As it's a newer initiative, the impact & quality assessment will be followed up as well as ensuring the objectives of decentralization of TNET have been met.
2.2 Promotion of TNRT:
TNRT being a new training needs more promotion to be organized in PreRMs & SRTs alongside PreGAs which is crucial for maximizing participant engagement and skill development. By communicating the unique value of TNRT and tailoring promotional efforts to the workshop, interest and excitement among attendees can be generated.
TNRT Resource Center: By August 2024, this platform will provide a wealth of materials and resources on Research Education, Research Camps, TNRT and READY Workshop It will serve as a central hub for researchers and trainers, offering a wide range of educational materials, guides, and tools.
2.3 Theme-Based PRET
The objective is to enhance the overall learning experience and maximize the impact of PRET by adopting a more focused approach in collaboration with SCOPE. This entails curating region-specific content tailored to regional priorities, rather than covering a wide range of topics simultaneously.
2.4 Manual & Promotion of READY:
Developing manuals for the READY workshop is an effective way to provide guidance and make the workshop more visible and accessible for organizing. It will serve as a valuable resource for potential organizers, offering step-by-step instructions.
2.5 Research Camp:
● Establishing SCORE Research Camp Manual that serves as a guide to organize Research Camp by forming a SWG composed of members, LOREs, NOREs, and IT Members. Their diverse perspectives and expertise will contribute to a well-rounded approach in assessing objectives, sessions, and outcomes of Research Camps.
● Promotion of Research Camps by conducting workshops or webinars to train NOREs on the implementation of Research Camps. Share the manual with NOREs and provide guidance on adapting it to their specific contexts.
A. International Research Camps: Organizing International Research Camps can be a valuable initiative to promote knowledge exchange, capacity building, and collaboration among research enthusiasts.
B National Research Camps: Additionally, encouraging NOREs to host their own National Research Camps can further extend the reach and impact of such events.
2.6 SCORE Sessions in GAs & RMs:
By fostering clear communication channels, evaluating NOREs needs assessment, and consistently striving for improvement, ensuring SCORE sessions to have a lasting impact will be prioritized.
2.7 SRTs:
Encourage the NOREs to host research and exchanges related workshops within SRTs in their NMOs- to be done by promoting PRET & TNRT to the National Officers, providing guidance for the implementation with the help of SCORE RAs and CBDA, and close follow-up.
2.8 IFMSA Online Training Platform:
● Launch basic SCORE exchange course for all the members regardless their level of involvement (ie SCORE 101, AQ, Project Form Filling) with the help of CBDA. These courses will serve as a valuable resource for introducing new members to the basics of SCORE Exchanges.
● Launch a Database Training Course with more visualization aligned with the new database manual along with providing hands-on virtual training upon request by the NOREs.
● Create Advocacy for Tutor Recruitment series for Members, Contact Person and Exchange Officers. Based on the NORE Report, 78.9% NMOs are struggling to find Tutors and University Support. From this session, there will be training, including but not limited to: Advocacy in Virtual and Physical settings, Identify roots of problems, and Academic Recognition etc
● Online CB Workshops: Recognizing the challenges faced by the regions, such as travel constraints and limited sponsorship opportunities for hosting SRTs, online capacity building initiatives with Workshops such as- READY & Online Research Camp have been formulated. With active leveraging of technology and overcoming the barriers, more members will be efficiently capacitated
2.9 SCORE CB Weekend:
Organize a CB Weekend online where all the workshops related to research and exchanges are presented in order to engage and empower members. During this event, workshops related to research and exchanges are presented to promote SRTs.
3. Optimizing Research Excellence: SCORE Programs & Activities
Updating the SCORE Activities Database is an important step in ensuring the visibility and promotion of SCORE programs alongside exchanges This will contribute to the overall growth and impact of SCORE in promoting meaningful activities and opportunities for medical students worldwide. By collaborating with the ADA and RAs the following actions will be taken:
● Updating Activities Database: Work closely with the ADA to review and update the existing Activities Database. Identify any gaps or missing information and collaborate with relevant program coordinators to gather the necessary details.
● Educational Activities: Work with programs team in the promotion at all levels of enrolling educational activities in IFMSA program.
● Activities Enrollment Promotion: Collaborate with RAs to promote the enrollment of SCORE activities within their respective regions Provide RAs with updated program information, promotional materials, and guidelines for promoting programs effectively.
● Activities Fair: Encourage NOREs to submit activities to the Activities Fair and promote programs and educational activities .
● SCORE Programs Week: Encourage collaboration among NMOs, RAs, and program coordinators to promote SCORE programs This can include joint promotional activities, such as webinars, workshops, or information sessions, where program coordinators can present program details and answer questions from interested participants This collaborative approach will amplify the reach and impact of program promotion efforts.
● Open Access Week: Promoting Open Access & engaging in advocacy efforts to promote open access collaborating with other organizations, institutions, or stakeholders to develop and endorse policies that support open access publishing and data sharing. Advocate for increased funding and support for open access initiatives and emphasize the importance of open access in advancing medical research and education.
● Promoting Research Resource Database: In this world of Research, promoting & updating RRD to ensure effective use of it will play a vital role in research activities.
4. Regions:
● Tailored Strategies: Through the implementation of focalized action plans, each region will be empowered by providing them with customized goals, strategies, and support that align with their unique context and aspirations based on the needs assessment and evaluation at the beginning of the term By recognizing and addressing their distinct needs, each Region will have their own set of goals to assure their growth.
● Updating Communication Guidelines to establish clear and efficient channels of communication between NOREs and SCORE IT. These guidelines will outline preferred modes of communication, expected response times, and protocols for sharing information.
● Empowering Regional Assistants to serve as the primary contact for NOREs. RAs will act as a bridge between NOREs and SCORE IT, providing support, guidance, and prompt resolution of any issues that arise.
● Regional Capacity Building Initiatives: Streamlining capacity building sessions regularly that bring together members from different regions. These sessions will provide a platform for sharing experiences, knowledge, and best practices. By learning from each other's unique perspectives and expertise, members can enhance their skills and competencies.
● Regional NOREs Server: Ensuring that every region has a dedicated Regional NOREs server These servers will serve as dedicated online platforms where NOREs can connect, share resources, and collaborate on research-related initiatives in their regions.
5. Elevate Communication & Collaboration:
5.1 LSR:
● Continuous Communication: Monthly online meetings will serve as a platform to exchange updates, discuss ongoing projects, and address any concerns.
● Alignment with SCORE Needs: Collaborate with the LSR to align their work with the needs and priorities of SCORE regarding external representation. Discuss and identify areas where the LSR's expertise and advocacy efforts can contribute to SCORE's objectives and goals.
● Abstract Proposal and Coordination: Coordinate with the LSR to have abstracts written by the SCORE IT and submit them to relevant conferences such as the Open Education Conference, WONCA, AMEE, and others that align with SCORE's work Work closely with the SCORE IT team to identify suitable topics, develop abstracts, and ensure timely submission.
● Evaluation and Promotion of Endorsement Letters: Evaluate the existing endorsement letters within SCORE and identify opportunities to promote their use among NOREs. Provide guidance and support to NOREs on how to obtain endorsements for their activities or projects. Work towards obtaining endorsements for SCORE documents, manuals, and workshops Additionally, explore avenues for obtaining new endorsements from reputable organizations or institutions to enhance the credibility and impact of SCORE.
5.2 SCOPE:
● Establish bimonthly Online Meetings with SCOPE-D to serve as a platform to discuss ongoing initiatives, align goals & common focus areas (AQ, Database,Voting Rights Tasks), and address any challenges or concerns that may arise in exchanges Identify areas for improvement, prioritize development tasks, and implement necessary upgrades or enhancements to optimize database functionality.
● To encourage collaboration among international assistants from both exchanges teams, a dedicated group chat will be created. These platforms will serve as spaces for regular interaction, facilitating the sharing of experiences and knowledge exchange to enhance exchanges.
● Implement Exchanges Week to promote Exchanges and Contracts Fairs and align promotional efforts to maximize participation and engagement from both SCOPE and SCORE.
● PRET and TNET Evaluation and Promotion: Share insights, best practices, and lessons learned to continuously enhance the quality and impact of TNET & PRET.
5.3 SCOPH:
● Promotion of GAP Exchanges: Develop a collaborative effort that amplifies the reach and impact of the promotion, encouraging more students to engage in GAP exchanges.
● Promote Green Exchanges initiatives that emphasize sustainability practices for green exchanges in collaboration with SCOPH-D and SCOPE-D.
5.4 SCOME:
● Implementing the CURE Approach by advocating for the inclusion of research-based courses or projects as a component of undergraduate medical curricula.
● Advocating Research in Medical Education: Advocating for and enhancing research in medical education is crucial for advancing the field and improving the quality of medical education.
5.5 SCORA:
Establish a Gender Empowerment in Research Program & encourage equitable representation of genders in research studies, and address gender biases in research
5.6 SCORP:
Establish guidelines and resources for ethical research practices. Develop a comprehensive program within SCORP that addresses health equity and promotes non-discriminatory healthcare
5.7 IFMSA TO and EB:
● Constant Communication: Encourage proactive communication from both sides to foster a sense of transparency and collaboration.
● Completion of Assigned Tasks: Take responsibility for assigned tasks and ensure their timely and efficient completion.
● Active Participation in TO Meetings: Share insights, experiences, and ideas related to SCORE's activities and seek input from fellow TO members to enhance the decision-making process.
● Foster a Positive Working Environment: Foster an inclusive and supportive atmosphere that promotes effective teamwork and enables the achievement of common goals.
5.8 Inter-regional Collaborations:
Implementing inter-regional collaborations within the IFMSA to foster exchange and cooperation among different regions by :
● Brainstorming and Idea Generation: By engaging in discussions and brainstorming sessions, areas where inter-regional collaboration can be most impactful can be identified in consultation with RAs & RDs.
● Campaigns and Initiatives: To promote inter-regional collaboration, campaigns and projects that focus on common issues and goals will be initiated.
5.9 Keeping up with SCORE IT:
● Proper Handover: Facilitate a comprehensive handover process, ensuring that the incoming SCORE IT receives all necessary information and understands their responsibilities throughout the term.
● SCORE IT Meetings: Conduct monthly OLM with the SCORE IT team. Additionally, schedule one-on-one meetings regularly with individual SCORE IT members to provide guidance & closely follow up on their work progress.
● SCORE IT Availability Calendar: This allows for better planning and ensures tasks can be assigned and completed without overburdening individuals during their unavailable periods.
● Mental Health Watch: A supportive environment will be created where mental health is prioritized. Regularly check in on the well-being of SCORE IT members and offer support to those experiencing mental health issues
● SCORE IT Work Tracker: Develop a SCORE IT Work Tracker at the beginning of the term. This tool provides an overview of each SCORE IT member's assigned tasks, helps plan meetings, IT projects, and activities related to specific SWGs
● SCORE IT Structure: Evaluate the existing tasks and responsibilities of the SCORE IT team and consider restructuring if necessary. Aim for a balanced workload distribution among team members, ensuring that everyone has a manageable and equitable set of responsibilities.
● Project Approval: Facilitate & coordinate with ADA & SB to fasten the process of Project Approval and prevent late approvals.
