The 10 Best Medical Schools in the Middle East, 2019 by The Knowledge Review

JULY - 2019

ISSUE-4

Best

MEDICAL SCHOOLS in Middle East

2019

Alfaisal University

Setting New Benchmarks in Medical Education Globally

From the

EDITOR The Science of Healing

he discipline of medicine, since times unknown, has played a significant role in the development and sustenance of humanity. Today, the discipline has evolved in a parallel projection alongside the engineering and technological evolution. What would have been the landscape of healthcare and related aspects if medical sciences and studies wouldn’t have evolved through time? Would there be an adequate number of skilled and efficient doctors, is the first question that evidently pops in our minds. For any individual opting to study medicine, it becomes a prime necessity to impart knowledge that leads them to strive for excellence in what they aspire to become. However, to achieve this, the educational institutions delivering that

knowledge have to be comprehensively au fait with the developments and shortcomings of the discipline. Considering the gravity of the aforesaid necessity, medical schools and universities across the globe have to undertake the profound responsibility in adopting new technological innovations, constantly updating the syllabi and simultaneously upgrading their infrastructure when needed. This edition, provides our readers a detailed account of how medical schools and universities across the Middle East have proﬁciently catered to this necessity and ceaselessly strive to keep uplifting the value of holistic education. T R

Abhishaj Sajeev Abhishaj Sajeev

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C O N T E N T S

COVER STORY 08

Alfaisal University

Setting New Benchmarks in Medical Education Globally 18 Medical School of the month

RAK Medical & Health Sciences University A Heritage of Excellence in Medical Education

ARTICLES

Medical Revolution

Innovation Healthcare

Applications of Biomedical Devices for Controlled Drug Delivery

mHealth: The New Horizon in the Health Technology

34 Gulf Medical University Surpassing the Benchmarks of Medical Education

Hawler Medical University

A Culture of Excellence Improving the Health of the Communities

Hashemite University

An Abode for Excellence in Medical Education and Technology

The Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) An Embodiment of Knowledge and Spirituality

The Signiﬁcance of Medical Sciences

he emphasis on development in medical and associated sciences in the current technological era, is supposedly a substantial one.

Medical science encompasses complexity, sophistication and expertise, and a student of medical sciences requires to be proficient in exhibiting these traits. For a student to attain these intricate virtues and expertise, they need to be trained by leading medical schools which hold a prominent rank across the world. Thus, with the intent of unveiling and bringing into spotlight, exemplary institutions, delivering exceptional educational value and are reforming the landscape of the medical studies ecosystem, we at The Knowledge Review have introduced this edition titled, The 10 Best Medical Schools in the Middle East, 2019. Featuring as our cover story is, Alfaisal University. Founded by the highly reputed King Faisal Foundation in 2002 as one of the first private nonprofit, research and teaching universities in the kingdom, the university is committed to achieving international standards of excellence. The university has the support of national and international co-founders and distinguished Board Members that have been continually supporting the university in its mission to remain a student-centered institution committed to research. The university holds in high regards, the words of his majesty, late King Faisal Bin Abdulaziz, “the education of our youth rests on three foundations: faith, knowledge, and performance,” and believes that these pillars have constituted the vision of late King Faisal in determining the future of education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. RAK Medical & Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU), is featured as this edition’s Institute of the Month. The University was set up in the year 2006 with the vision to be the leading Medical and Health Sciences and University in the UAE. It is the first established University under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. RAKMHSU has evolved extremely well from a modest start, with 1300 plus teachers from 48 different nationalities. RAKMHSU is also proud to have 109 teaching faculty, 113 adjunct faculty, and 96 non-teaching staff from 26 different nations. Also featuring in this edition are, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; RAK Medical & Health Sciences University, UAE; Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Lebanon; Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE; Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq; and Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan. A few other medical schools and universities that have also set a certain benchmark in sector are Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Egypt; Syrian Private University-Faculty of Medicine, Syria; Aden University, Yemen; and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland-Bahrain, Bahrain. T R

Alfaisal

University Setting New Benchmarks in Medical Education Globally

The Alfaisal College of Medicine follows a problem-based, selfdirected curriculum, in which patients and problems are studied from multiple standpoints and wherein learning is integrated with appropriate clinical skills training and community-based experiences.

he purpose embodied within the discipline of medicine is inevitably as vital as the expertise, the sophistication and the complexity encompassed within its practice. The implications of this profundity lead us to the root of this discipline which is an educational institution for medical studies. Thus, with and implied emphasis on discovering and bringing into spotlight, exemplary institutions, striving to deliver topnotch education and are reforming the landscape of the medical studies ecosystem, we at The Knowledge Review present to you Alfaisal University. Alfaisal University was founded by the highly reputed King Faisal Foundation in 2002 as one of the ﬁrst private nonproﬁt, research and teaching universities in the kingdom, committed to achieving international standards of excellence. The university has the support of national and international co-founders and distinguished Board Members that have been continually supporting the university in its mission to remain a student-centered institution committed to research. The university holds in high regards, the words of his majesty, late King Faisal Bin Abdulaziz, “the education of our youth rests on three foundations: faith, knowledge, and performance,” and believes that these pillars have constituted the vision of late King Faisal in determining the future of

education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Alfaisal University avidly exhibits its motto of serving humanity and the community through the best medical practice. Today, it competes to be the best College of Medicine in the region and aims to be ranked among top international colleges. With a state of-art campus and labs, and with the help of its distinguished faculty, the university’s students are achieving the top scores in national and international exams, publishing in the top journals and presenting their own research in the best worldwide medical conferences. The University is recognized as ‘One of the World’s Top 150 Institutions under 50 Years Old’ and in ‘The Top 30 institutions globally for universities established after the year 2000’ as per the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2018. Alfaisal University has succeeded to improve its ranking from Top 501-600 globally in 2018, to 301-350 globally as per the Times Higher Education Young University Rankings (THE) 2019. At the nd Kingdom level, it ranked 2 overall nd and 2 for the Arab region. For st Medicine, the university ranked 1 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and 3rd in the Arab Region. A new College of Medicine building is under construction. The

postgraduate program is continuously updated and new fields will be launched. Library building expansions and sports center are being considered. Striving for Excellence The management elucidates over the University’s mission and vision in the words below: - Our Vision: Alfaisal University is a private non-profit institution, which aspires to be a world-class research university, committed to the creation, dissemination and application of knowledge in the fields of business, engineering, science, medicine and health sciences. - Our Mission: Alfaisal University is a studentcentered university which creates and disseminates knowledge through world-class undergraduate and graduate education programs, research, and service that will benefit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the region and the world in the advancement of a knowledge-based economy. Alfaisal College of Medicine is accredited by several international accreditation and licensing parties such as, International Medical

Education Directory (IMED), Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER), and the World Health Organization (WHO) directory of medical schools, The Medical Board of California, The United Kingdom General Medical Council (UK-GMC), Accreditation authorities in several states in Germany, The Jordanian Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and The Sri Lanka medical council. College of Medicine at Alfaisal University offers an undergraduate program and many graduate programs. MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) is a student centered, problem based, integrated, and community oriented undergraduate program which is offered over a span of six years. Students spend three years in learning basic sciences and two years in clinical sciences followed by one

year of internship. This hybrid curriculum emphasizes on small group and problem-based learning, integrated with clinical skills training and community-based experiences, alongside lectures. College of Medicine is affiliated with Partners Healthcare International (PHI) USA, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC), in addition to other local collaborations. A Balanced Perspective On the pretext of the continuous advancement in the sphere robotics and its effects over the medical discipline, The College of Medicine’s discernment over the fact is that artificial intelligence being implemented in the form of robotics is a very important revolutionary advancement in analyzing complex medical data and assisting physicians in improving patient outcomes. However, the college believes more important is the humanitarian patient

to physician interaction and chemistry of comfort that a robot cannot offer, especially while dealing with sensitive situations or vulnerable populations. Here, medical ethics versus human and community wellbeing flag is to be raised. Robotics implementation is not a cheap process and limited centers can afford it, taking rural situations into consideration. Although a robot can one day abridge all the educational efforts and costs put by a medical student, still the need for a physician competent enough, by education, training, research, and experience to translate a robot finding never fades. Opening the Doors to Opportunities Throughout the clinical training years, the College of Medicine’s students receive a comprehensive, hands-on, and wide exposure and training to different clinical scenarios and cases encountered throughout

The Guiding Light of Aspiring Doctors Alfaisal University’s College of Medicine has been ascending the stairway to progress and development, under the proﬁcient and inspirational leadership of Prof. Khaled Al Kattan, the Professor of Surgery and the Dean of the College of Medicine. “I am looking forward to seeing the College of Medicine rising and shining like a star, and its graduates serving humanity in the best medical practice.” Prof. Khaled expresses. The College of Medicine is supported by the vision of its overall management represented by the University President, H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Hayaza and Prof. Khaled. Both work to provide the optimal environment that would enable students to progress at diﬀerent academic, clinical, research, national, and international levels, by supporting all programs that raise the educational standards and facilities’ capitals. It is their hard work and dedication that is leading the university on the track of its mission and vision.

their future medical career, in the diﬀerent local hospitals involved in collaborations with the college. In addition, the choice of and matching success in international residency programs adds a lot to this career. The College of Medicine’s candidates’ success rate in matching in a residency program in the U.S. National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) is 80%. The college’s U.S. NRMP match rate ranks as second best in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and seventh across the Middle East. Many of the graduates are currently training in residency training programs in Germany, Canada and the United Kingdom in the specialties of Surgery, Medicine, Psychiatry and Anesthesiology, following their full registration with the health authorities in those countries. In addition to the international residency programs, the college’s graduates have succeeded in obtaining residency in several well-recognized local hospitals. Alfaisal College of Medicine’s students have harnessed

the highest results among 25 other medical schools in the Kingdom on the nationwide Progress Test (PT) for six consecutive years. All medical students appear for this exam at the same time and are tested on their comprehensive understanding and knowledge of all the subjects they learned throughout medical school. Alfaisal College of Medicine students are passing all parts of the USMLE (The United States Medical Licensing Examination) at a much higher percentage (85%) than other International Medical Graduates in performance, clinical knowledge and skills. The management is of the opinion that medical research is nowadays viewed as the key point in establishing promotion criteria and assessing a physician’s advanced clinical practice standards. Accordingly, Alfaisal’s College of Medicine has been a pioneer in medical and educational research in the Kingdom. The respective publications are covering a wide range of medical and medicine related disciplines. The College’s collaborations with King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center

deliver an added value. Students enjoy facilitated research opportunities with international research universities and clinics such as Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and Harvard University, through the Summer Program for International Research and Internship Training (SPIRIT). Many students are also sent abroad for clinical electives through the International Clinical Electives (ICE) program. Alfaisal University also hosts several national and international conferences featuring a huge variety of elite speakers delivering high yield keynotes, several symposia, hands-on pre-conferences’ workshops, alongside impressive educational exhibitions and several innovative scientiﬁc contests and competitions that students participate in and always guarantee high rank prizes, thanks to the quality of students, supervising investigators, and novel work presented.

Advocating Reformative Learning Alfaisal University’s College of Medicine takes the following efforts in order to create a proficient learning culture or environment for its students: · Implementing Team Based Learning and Problem Based Learning educational programs. · Establishment of Student based Clubs such as Medical Students Association under which falls a program called Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) where students help each other in the information acquiring process. · Parallel laboratory sessions in advanced laboratory settings covering all medical fields of Anatomy, Physiology, Histology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Clinical Skills through an advanced Simulation Lab. · Encouraging students to participate in local and

international conferences as attendees or speakers presenting oral or poster communications. · College of Medicine embraces a unique multidisciplinary and well experienced faculty pool specialized in all medical ﬁelds, and constantly familiarizing their expertise with medical updates. · Students at Alfaisal University have access to huge, updated, and up-to-date reliable library databases including high impact factor Scholarly journals and Magazine articles, available through an established Library building that is managed by experienced personnel. · Research in the ﬁeld of medical education is active at Alfaisal University, and the College tries to implement the results in program amendments in favor of a better learning outcome.

Student Testimonials “My experience at Alfaisal University’s College of Medicine was very productive, exquisitely unique, and enjoyable. I have learnt that success is the direct outcome of persistent attempts empowered by determination and optimism, regardless of the outcome of the attempts. A strong and academically competent individual is not the person who doesn’t make mistakes, but rather the person who acknowledges and learns the most out of her/his mistake. I feel very grateful for all the support I have received from the College of Medicine throughout the past 5 years.” – Haya Jamal Azouz, Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, First Honor. “My journey at the College of Medicine has been extraordinary. Looking back at us in our freshman years, it is truly amazing how our experiences have transformed us into the bright and reﬁned individuals we are today. I feel extremely blessed for the many opportunities that Alfaisal CoM has given me, for being taught by such a diverse and brilliant faculty, and for having made the most incredible friends here at Alfaisal – all of this was only possible by the Grace of Allah. Becoming a doctor is and honor, it entails lifelong learning and we must remember to chase excellence, no matter what path we choose.” – Ameera Elias Musa Sheikh, Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, Second Honor. “I studied in the master’s program of Radiological and Imaging Sciences (MRIS) in an extremely unique educational environment of higher education at Alfaisal University. In this program, I acquired the knowledge and skills which have greatly improved me as a researcher, scientiﬁc writer, presenter, and educator.” – Fahad Abdulrahman Alabdulrazzaq, Master of Radiological and Imaging Sciences. T R

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RAK Medical & Health Sciences University A Heritage of Excellence in Medical Education

JULY 2019

Medical School of the month

To ensure that it oďŹ&#x20AC;ers academic programs in medical and health sciences of International stands and high quality, which is recognized locally, regionally, and internationally

JULY 2019

uccessful healthcare institutions prioritize on enhancing reasoning skills and mindset attributes throughout their organization. They comprehend that unreﬂective accumulation of experience does not lead to better thinking. Instead, progression in clinical reasoning requires a direct focus on the critical thinking processes used to interpret, analyze, infer, evaluate, and explain the ongoing processes. Instilling the same critical and reasoning thinking into the students is RAK Medical & Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU), which is dedicated to the pursuit of academic excellence

and committed to preparing graduates with critical skills to join the medical and healthcare fields in the 21st century. The University was set up in the year 2006 with the vision to be the leading Medical and Health Sciences and University in the UAE. It is the first established University under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. RAKMHSU has evolved extremely well from a modest start, with 1300 plus teachers from 48 different nationalities. RAKMHSU is also proud to have 109 teaching

faculty, 113 adjunct faculty, and 96 non-teaching staff from 26 different nations. The Knowledge Review team discovered that the University has become a role model of cooperation and collaboration between learners and teachers of various nationalities and cultural backgrounds continuing their corresponding career lives with dedication. Its faculty’s significant input has assisted RAKMHSU to improve the traditional educational norms. The University is proud to support a Student-Teacher Ratio at 7:1, which is more than an ideal situation.

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The university provides system-wise, integrated and updated curriculum as well as training in clinical skills from the ﬁrst year of study. The latest teaching methodologies such as team-based learning and case-based learning is used to facilitate learning in small groups. Clinical training and internship are oﬀered in government hospitals at Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah which are having more than 800 patient beds. In terms of placement and career opportunities, the University is proud that it’s nursing and pharmacy graduates receive placements soon after graduation in various clinics

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and sectors. Additionally, it is proud for of the learners many of whom after graduation have qualiﬁed for USMLE, PLAB and proceeded to many countries worldwide to pursue higher studies and practice. Even within the country, many have qualiﬁed in the in Abu Dhabi’s Health Care and Health Authority (HAAD) exams.

Pharmaceutical Sciences, and RAK College of Nursing. Under this constitute, the University oﬀers; l l l

About the Robust Curriculum The University encompasses of four constituent colleges to impart quality education. These are RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK College of Dental Sciences, RAK College of

l l l l

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm) M.S. Clinical Pharmacy M.S. Pharmaceutical Chemistry M.S. Pharmaceutics Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

RN-BSN Bridge Program (for working nurses holding Diploma to upgrade to BSN) l MSN( specialities- Adult Health, Psychiatric-Mental Health, Pediatric & Community-Health) l

RAKMHSU is also proud to be the ﬁrst in the UAE to launch the two-year Masters program in Nursing. Now, in addition to the MS in Adult Health Nursing (MSN), MS in Clinical Pharmacy, it also oﬀers MS in Pediatric Nursing, MS in Community Health Nursing, MS in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing, MS in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, MS in Pharmaceuticals and Pharm. D, post-accreditation programs. All these programs are accredited by Ministry of Education, UAE and the

degrees are accepted worldwide. Additionally, RAK College of Medical Sciences (RAK COMS) is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools and RAK College of Dental Sciences is listed in WHO directory of Health. Accompanying this robust curriculum is the University’s all-round campus. It is well-equipped with library and lecture halls and its multipurpose laboratories help in practicing clinical skills. There is a separate English Language Centre for facilitating IELTS tests. The student to teacher ratio of 7:1 ease in personalized teaching. A new academic block for Pharmacy and Nursing programs and a new large sports complex housing gyms and indoor sports facilities add more to

the existing facilities. Hostel and student visa are also provided for the students who require the same. Beyond the Curriculum In addition to the academic achievements, the students at RAKMHSU excel in several co-curricular and extracurricular activities including the sports activities within and outside, bringing laurels to the University. The Student Affairs Office manages and maintains an elevated standard of student participation. In relation to celebrating UAE National Day, RAKMHSU Cultural Day and Student Scientific Conference are some of the features of each year’s university activities. Noting the

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elevated amount of student involvement in both Oral and Poster Presentations at the Conference is very gratifying for the University. Furthermore, the Ministry of Health also sponsors suitable UAE nationals for the Nursing Program for both undergraduate and masters. Built for the Students The University is all about helping the students in attaining quality education. Therefore, when it comes to exams and reviews, the University’s Examination Oﬃce enhances the examination and review

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methods. In every class, several MCQ libraries are procured to assist the professors to come out with better quality questions. Moreover, several examination procedures have been simplified. In relation to their standardized application across all schools, the Vetting Committees for both MCQs and PBLs are having a considerable effort to enhance the quality of both. The Examination Office conducts very systematically exams across four constituent colleges for more than 130 classes each semester. The meticulous hard work of the students

results in an overall pass percentage of over 95% with more than 26% obtaining excellent or outstanding grades. Starting from the year 2010, the University has instituted a system of academic honors for students with excellent academic achievements. Clinical Experience and Exposure The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between RAKMHSU and the Ministry of Health (MOH), provides pupils with the access to clinical expertise at both Sheik Saqr and Obaidulla Hospitals in Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah Hospital.T R

Medical Revolution

Applications of

Biomedical Devices for Controlled

Drug Delivery

iomedical microdevices are fabricated on the order of one to hundred µm. These devices are fabricated with critical features and range in complexity from microchannels to microtranslucers and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). Biomedical microdevices oﬀers key advantages for applications in health i.e. they are extremely small in sizes; provides invasive procedures; have lower power consumption; high reproducibility and the low costs per device. In addition, they also oﬀer better compatibility and multiple functionalities with integrating electronics. This technology has proliferated the development of variety of microdevices such as micro components of pacemakers, micromedical devices, diagnostic devices, and drug delivery systems. This advent of technology

has provided signiﬁcant improvement over numerous chronic and no chronic illnesses. It has also transformed the way drugs are administered into the patients’ body. These microdevices are based on structural micro parts such as microchannels that stores drugs. In conjunction, MEMS devices incorporated with microacutuators, microsensors, and microtransducers improve the device capabilities. Drug delivery through MEMS provides improved diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of illness. It also has the ability to control the rate of drug released to the target area. Programmed with continuous delivery alongside the ability to release drug locally increases the treatment eﬃcacy reducing systematic concentration levels and toxicity.

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Classiﬁcation

Rate of degradation of polymer contained in the reservoir

Drug delivery system can be classiﬁed into two types; passive and active.

Diﬀusivity properties of the drug

Passive microdevices used for drug delivery do not rely on actuation mechanism. These devices are reservoir based and rely on mass transfer across permeable membrane to deliver drugs. The release rate of the drug can be controlled by:

One major thing to note here is that the delivery of the drug cannot be modiﬁed after implementation. Other passive release devices are based on internal body conditions like the pH or the temperature. Passive Nanochannel-based Drug Delivery Devices

Eﬀective permeability of membranes by ﬁne-tuning material and structural dimensions Osmotic pressure

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These devices were created to improve patient adherence towards chemotherapeutics and quality of life, eliminating the need for repeated administration and

regular visits to the clinic. These control the release of the drug by physical-electrostatic confinement and are consist of 30 µm wide microchannels that connects the reservoir. Clinical application- Diabetes, Melanoma, Prostate cancer Active devices use different mechanisms to release drugs in the body and provide increased level of control. These devices can be customised to treat a wide range of diseases requiring specific drug delivery profiles. When compared, MEMS can be activated and can be stopped at any time after implantation. Common miniature power electronics are required by these active devices, which typically increases the overall form factor. Electrothermally Actuated MEMS Drug Delivery Microchip This type of device delivers drugs in a pulsatile manner and because of such, several works on active drug delivery devices based on MEMS have made substantial progress towards treating ailments. Clinical application - Osteoporosis Rapid-delivery Microchip for Acute Clinical Conditions This device consists of a membrane, actuation, and reservoir layer. Membrane layer consists of biocompatible silicon nitrate and the actuation layer of three micro resistors. On passage of current through resistors, heat is generated and increases the inside pressure of the reservoir. This lead to the rupture of silicon nitrate membrane, followed by the release of the drug.

Clinical application- Hemorrhagic Shock Magnetically Control MEMS Delivery A magnetic MEMS drug delivery device was developed for the controlled release of chemotherapeutic agent. In this device, pressure in the reservoir is built, enabling the drug to diffuse out. Clinical application - Cancer Some other devices are Micropump MEMS-based drug delivery system; Transfermall MEMS; Microneedle Patch Array Delivery System; Electrothermal MEMS drug delivery Device; Microfuluidic Hydraulic MEMS-based devices. The next generation of delivery models are present in today's inter-connected world. The current development of such delivery systems is at early stage and even some technologies are still in conception phase. From clinical standpoint, if such clinical needs do exist and is identified, many such applications will demand large payload that cannot be accommodated within the microdevices. Passive and active devices can be a part of invasive procedures and have the ability to enhance the efficacy while reducing the toxicity of the drug. These devices offer a wide range of application with tailored local release and high adherence prerequisites. They also represent a novel technology but also face different regulatory challenges. They also represent the next generation of platforms for more accurate and efficient drug delivery. Such novel platforms promise the patients to increase adherence and overall better treatment outcomes. T R

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o reform the ways in which aspirants of the discipline of medicine are taught and trained, requires an institution to ceaselessly excel in its approach towards the discipline. Located in Ajman, the Gulf Medical University (GMU) is one prominent example of such reformative institutes. It is the first private medical universities in UAE and the largest for its program offerings. Gulf Medical College was established in 1998. The university is now offering both undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Medicine, Physiotherapy, Dentistry and Pharmacy. The institution is the only private academic health system in UAE offering healthcare, research and education. GMU has also earned the reputation of providing programs that had been introduced in the region for the first time. The university was first in the region to launch unique programs like Master in Healthcare Management & Economics, Bachelor in Healthcare Management & Economics, Joint Master in Health Profession Education and

International Master degree in Public Health. GMU focuses in the three core areas of Medical Education, Healthcare and Research. The university has infrastructure and facilities which are at par with international standards. Apart from the academic programs, GMU is at the forefront of Continuing Medical Education and Continuing Professional Development Programs. The university regularly organizes international and regional conferences and symposia. The Gulf Medical University envisions being a leading international Academic Healthcare Institution through the implementation of quality health professions education, research, healthcare and social accountability for sustainable community development. Its mission is to pursue excellence through integration of health professions education, translational research, quality healthcare, innovation and social accountability enhanced by national, international partnerships and community engagement. JULY 2019

Gulf Medical University Surpassing the Benchmarks of Medical Education

A Comprehensive Oﬀering The Gulf Medical University caters to providing comprehensive training to students of the contemporary medical discipline. The university’s syllabi cover the following Undergraduate Programs: Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences (BBMS) Associate Degree in Pre-Clinical Sciences (ADPCS) Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm. D) Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT) Bachelor of Science – Medical Laboratory Sciences (BSc. MLS) Bachelor of Science – Medical Imaging Sciences (BSc. MIS) JULY 2019

Guiding the Seekers of Knowledge The Gulf Medical University has been incessantly ascending zeniths of success under the prolific leadership of Prof. Hossam Hamdy. At GMU, Prof. Hamdy is the Chancellor and Professor of Surgery and Medical Education. He is an internationally known medical educator and active Pediatric Surgeon. As a scholar, professional, and leader in higher education in the Middle East and renowned internationally for the last 40 years, he has established several Medical Colleges in Egypt, Bahrain, UAE. He has served in different senior academic and administrative positions, such as Vice Chancellor at Medical & Health Science Colleges, Sharjah University and Director of the Institute of Leadership in Higher Education at Sharjah University; Dean at College of Medicine, Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain and also a WHO Consultant in Medical Education. Prof. Hamdy states, “At Gulf Medical University, our focus is always on shaping the future of healthcare. Being a leading medical university with its own growing network of world-class academic institutions, hospitals and a dynamic research division, we are constantly endeavoring to transform the University into a vibrant Academic Health System, linking the best of medical education, healthcare and research, manned by the finest professionals.” Prof. Hamdy also adds that GMU is committed to leading a revolution in transforming the way Academic Health Systems function. The university envisages a host of opportunities waiting for us, yet understands that the challenges are huge. “We are confident that this ambitious journey fueled by spirited preparations and meaningful partnerships will propel us to our destination,” Prof. Hamdy expresses.

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Bachelor of Science – Anesthesia Technology (BSc. AT) Ÿ Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Ÿ Bachelor of Science in Nursing for Registered Nurses (RN-BSN) Ÿ Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management and Economics (BSc. HME) Ÿ

Postgraduate Programs: Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Master in Public Health (MPH) Joint Masters in Health Professions Education (JMHPE) Master of Dental Surgery in Periodontics (MDS) Master of Dental Surgery in Endodontics (MDS) Master in Clinical Pharmacy (MCP) Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) Executive Master in Healthcare Management and Economics (EMHME)

Advocating Innovation As a leading private medical University in the Middle East, the Gulf Medical University has always been at the forefront of innovation in medical education and healthcare. The proof of which is the gold medal the university had bagged at the prestigious Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Awards, 2018. The Gulf Medical University Academic Health System (GMUAHS) is the only one of its kind in the region’s private sector, linking healthcare, medical education and research. GMU has advanced teaching, training and research technologies. The Virtual Patient Learning (VPL) of GMU was developed by the University in partnership with Lifelike, a Swiss Technology company. It is the most sophisticated simulator with the highest ﬁdelity using artiﬁcial intelligence and problem-based learning in medical education. Prof. Hamdy believes that with all these advances in technology and sciences and so long the patient, health professional, students and teachers are human, it’s all how they communicate, interact with and understand each other, which will change. Celebrating the Alumni Alumni of the Gulf Medical University got together at the Ajman Saray Hotel to celebrate their achievements at the ‘GMU Annual Global Alumni

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Summit’ on 27th November 2018. Dr. Thumbay Moideen, the Founder and President, Board of Trustees GMU was the chief guest of the function presided by Prof. Hossam Hamdy, the Chancellor of GMU. Thirteen outstanding achievers from among the alumni were honored by the university, in acknowledgement of their accomplishments. The awards were presented by Dr. Moideen. The alumni members also honored him with a special memento. A cake-cutting ceremony was also organized as part of the event, celebrating GMU’s successful completion of 20 years of excellence in medical education, healthcare and research. In his address to the alumni, Prof. Hamdy said, “You are the role-models for our students and we at GMU are proud of what you have achieved in your careers. Your accomplishments inspire the students of GMU to dream big.” Further, he explained the university’s growth in recent times, with 6 colleges and 25 accredited programs currently under GMU. Dr. Waleed, an alumnus working in the UK addressed the gathering on behalf of the alumni members and expressed their gratitude and appreciation for GMU’s role in aiding them in building a successful career in healthcare. “We are proud to be the alumni of GMU, and are happy to see the university growing,” he expressed. Treading towards Progress The Gulf Medical University’s students get their clinical exposure quite early in their studies (Year 1) unlike their counterparts. This attributes to the university having its own network of Teaching Hospitals. GMU also, employs its own graduates in Thumbay Hospitals which are all JCI Accredited. Students are also sent for their summer training abroad every year to partner hospitals and healthcare facilities in UK, US, Australia, Japan, South Korea, India and Pakistan. GMU has an ongoing massive expansion plan in Serbia where there is an upcoming GMU Campus and Teaching Hospitals soon to be inaugurated. Also, GMU is soon to open a campus and a hospital in Egypt. Future projects are to open a GMU Campus in South Africa and Ghana along with a hospital.T R

stablished in 1995, Hashemite University, often abbreviated HU, is prominent among the Jordanian state-run universities. Located in the vicinity of the city of Zarqa, it is the first university in Jordan to apply the Two-SummerSemester system. Additionally, the university uses the credit hour system. Each faculty has its own requirement for credit hours. HU offers a variety of masters programs. It also offers an international admissions program that allows non-Jordanian students to enroll at the university. The university is comprised of 19 colleges (faculties) and institutes. It offers (52) specialties at the undergraduate level and (35) specialties at the postgraduate level (doctorate, masters, higher diploma, in addition to a number of professional diploma programs. Demographic Advantage The university is situated on a site at the intersection of two international highways. The west gate of the university, which is the main gate, opens to the international highway that links Amman with Mafraq and Irbid, and from there to Syria. The south gate

opens to the highway that leads to Az Zarqa and from there to Iraq and Saudi Arabia. A Rich History The university came into existence by royal decree on 19 June, 1991. Teaching commenced in the university on 16 September 1995. It is built on a total area of 8519 acres. HU received the order of independence of ﬁrst class for its achievements in renewable energy and higher education. About the Faculty of Medicine The Faculty of Medicine at the Hashemite University was inaugurated by his Majesty King Abdullah II Bin Al-Hussein in 2006. It began with an initial batch of 135 students, and its capacity has now grown to close to 1750 students through its current 6-year Medical Doctor (MD) degree program. The faculty comprises 5 departments in clinical and basic sciences: 1. Department of Basic Medical Sciences: Anatomy& Histology, Physiology, Biochemistry & Genetics, Pathology, Microbiology, Immunology, JULY 2019

Hashemite University An Abode for Excellence in Medical Education and Technology

Pharmacology, Community Medicine & Forensic Medicine.. 2. Department of Internal Medicine and Family Medicine, which also includes Dermatology &Diagnostic Radiology. 3. Department of General Surgery & Specialized Surgery that includes Urology & Pediatric Surgery, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology & Otolaryngology. 4. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 5. Department of Pediatrics & Neonatology. The faculty has attained international accreditation from WHO, IMED, PLAB, the American Medical Residency CertiďŹ cation Board, and the Medical Board of California. The faculty has well qualiďŹ ed JULY 2019

An Erudite President

The person leading Hashemite University towards the heights of educational and career excellence is none other than Professor Doctor Kamal Bani-Hani, the President. He is a gastrointestinal surgeon and formerly held the position of dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Hashemite University. He also was the dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Jordan University of Science and Technology from September 2008 to October 2010. national and international teaching staff from various medical specialties, royal medical services, and the Ministry of Health. It offers an exciting and stimulating learning environment that inspires and equips the medical students to become distinguished medical professionals. For the basic years, the faculty follows a comprehensive curriculum integrating both theoretical and practical teaching. Unique bespoke courses to Hashemite University include medical economics, health policies, medical ethics, and medical decision making as well as its flagship Clinical Skills Education and Testing Center (CSETC) which aims to equip the medical students with professional competency in clinical and consultation skills. Furthermore, the newly installed Digitalized Anatomy Laboratory (DAL) is part of the faculty’s continued striving to use the latest technologies to enhance the learning environment for the medical students. In the latter 3 clinical years, medical students rotate through the medical specialties in the central regional hospitals and

undergo comprehensive theoretical and practical assessments, including objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). In addition, the faculty allows for a two-month national and international medical elective course for the students to gain international academic experience and broaden their vision. The faculty of medicine awards the degree of Doctor of Medicine (MD) after successful completion of 257 credit hours, during the course of six years. The degree is recognized locally (accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education), regionally (WHO and IMED), and internationally by some of the most prestigious academic institutions (PLAB, the American Medical Residency Certification Board, and the Medical Board of California). Exceptional Educational Facilities The Faculty of Medicine focuses on producing highly proficient medical practitioners who are capable of providing state of the art medical care in all the different specialties of medicine. The faculty aims to raise the JULY 2019

medical standards of physicians in the local community through speciﬁc programs of ‘Continuous Medical Education’. The faculty marches forward with the goal of raising standards of health care and medical services in the Kingdom in general, especially in the middle region, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and the Directorate of the Royal Medical Services. It focuses on stimulating medical research with a special emphasis on health problems prevalent in the local communities. Additionally, the faculty aims to raise the standards of Preventive Medicine and Primary Medical Care.

and cutting edge medical educational methods • Implementing a more integrated medical curriculum • Appointing academically recognized staﬀ and continuing of scholarship programs. • Allocating a university hospital • Continuing to attain local and international accreditations and collaborations T R

The Dedicated Faculty The excellent faculty comes from many nations, and many of them are graduates of distinguished international universities and have received their clinical training in leading international hospitals. They are actively involved in scientific research, regional and international conferences, and regular contributions to the medical literature. In recognition of these research achievements, the university has also been accredited by the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER). Beyond the Curriculum Other than providing exceptional educational facilities, the university offers various services to the local community and society at large. It provides free clinical services in hospitals affiliated with the Ministry of Health, including Prince Hamzah Hospital. The university organizes volunteer medical days in different cities and villages throughout Jordan. It participates in innovative projects to enhance medical awareness and services in the local community. Moreover, the university encourages media involvement to promote health education on various platforms, like television, to improve public health awareness. It always encourages the students to participate in local and international medical conferences and workshops, which, in turn, provides them the much needed exposure to the larger world. Towards a Future of Endless Possibilities The university aims at building a bright future for its students. The faculty is preparing study plans for higher specialization programs. The faculty aims to improve its offerings further by: • Enhancing medical training through innovative JULY 2019

mHealth The New Horizon in the Health Technology

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Innovation Healthcare

obile health or mhealth is a general term coined for the use of mobile or wireless technology in the healthcare systems. It is a part of ehealth healthcare practice. The most common application of the ehealth is to educate the consumers about the preventive health care services. It is also used in disease surveillance, treatment support, epidemic outbreak tracking, and chronic disease management. mhealth is popular due to the areas that are accompanied by a large population and the widespread mobile phone usage. Within the digital health, mhealth encompasses all the application of multimedia and telecommunication ensuring accurate delivery of the healthcare and health information. Some of the practical examples of mhealth are the voice communication and mobile messaging for the provider to improve the health behavior. Mobile technologies are helping the healthcare sector in improving training and service quality of healthcare workers, reducing the cost of service along with reducing the redundancy and duplication of the collected information. Motivation One of the main aspects of the mhealth is to push the limits of the healthcare sector and quickly acquire, transport, store, secure, and process the raw processed data into useful and meaningful results. mhealth offer various abilities to the remote individuals so that they can participate in the healthcare value matrix, which was not possible in the past. In many such cases, these participants can provide their valuable contribution in gathering data or create awareness of the disease in public health like outdoor pollution, violence, or drugs. Motivation arises in mhealth due to the following two factors: The first factor is the rise of the constraints faced by the healthcare system of developing nations. These constraints include the population growth, limited financial resources, the burden of disease prevalence, and a large number of the rural inhabitant. The second factor is the rise in mobile phones in the world and its large population. The greater access to the mobile phones in all segments of the country helps in saving information and transitional costs for the proper healthcare delivery. Health Outcomes The integration of the technology with the health sector has promoted the betterment of the health, its lifestyle, and has improved the decision-making ability of healthcare professionals. Overall improvement is seen in the areas like health information and the instant connection between patients and health professionals, which was not possible before. Following that, there is an increased usage of technology that has reduced the health costs and has improved the efficiency of the healthcare systems. The growth of health-related applications has further boosted the growth of the mhealth. A potential implementation is the direct voice communication for the poor literates and local-language versed people. The phones equipped with the local language aid in information transfer capabilities that were not available before. With the help of the mobile technology, the support for the existing workflow within the mhealth sector and the general public has increased.

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The Advantages mhealth provides various versatile advantages across all the areas of the healthcare industry. It not only helps the disease-aﬀected citizens but also helps in monitoring potential patients that are at risk. Furthermore, it has incredible potential in the biometric hardware and real-time analytics. Majority of doctors believe that the applications developed in the name of health are actually beneﬁcial. Around ninety-three percent of doctors suggest that the mobile healthcare applications help in improving the overall health. Some of the most common advantages of mhealth devices are: Medication reminder- Using a reminder, the public can set timers for their medications, exercise, and many more such activities.

the change. They are unwilling to learn new skills or new technology. They also believe that it impedes their workflow. In terms of workflow, the structure of evaluation presents a major challenge for the healthcare sector. There should be resolute standards for the evaluation. With the constant change of technology, infrastructure, and innovative research methods, there is a specific need to evaluate the process and consequences of the action taken in the mhealth process implementation. Consequently, a balance is required to be maintained in the mhealth applications and its execution. Healthcare providers must also take care of the data overloading. As the data is collected in the real-time and recorded, there must be a proper assessment of the collected data where non-important data is filtered out. Industry Trends

Constraints

Being the fastest growing trend, the mobile platform is used by more than five billion people in the world. With the increase of smartphones and wireless network technologies, the digital healthcare systems have new possibilities alongside new challenges to provide high quality, efficiency, accessibility, and lower cost to the healthcare services. Various reports suggest that the consumers are expecting mhealth to change the overall healthcare experience with the way the digital information is obtained. The impact of mHealth is seen in the relationship and overall communication between a patient and the physician. Studies have shown that the health monitoring devices and cellular connectivity has reached more than seven million people. The combined market of the mobile health applications, health, and wireless apps, is expected to grow at a significant amount. In some countries, there are apps that are monitoring the patient’s asthma right from their mobile phones. It is done using the microphone of the phone just like a spirometer. Other countries are using a wireless shoe insole, used to monitor the blood pressure in the heel. This digital shoe alerts the diabetic patients, when there is too much weight on feet, which can help in the elimination of foot ulcers.

Major hurdles in the mhealth are the guidelines regarding the privacy and security of the health data collection on mobile technologies and identifying new opportunities to enhance the delivery of mhealth services. According to the surveys, resistance is seen from staﬀ and physicians due to

mhealth has enormous potential and is growing rapidly along with changing technology. Various international organization and global experts are researching continuously to foster the best use of current promising technology to improve the global health. T R

Fitness trackers- People can monitor their ﬁtness and burned calories. Calories counter- People can monitor how much calories they are taking-in and can control it. Mobile emergency health communication- Citizens can contact their loved ones in any kind of emergencies. If the device has autonomous capabilities, it can automatically contact the concerned authorities. Heart and Vital monitoring- Application rendered with the vital monitoring abilities can be very useful. Citizens can use these while exercising or in the case of emergency for example, patients’ vitals’ can be monitored in an ambulance. As mhealth is becoming widely known, healthcare providers are embracing the mobile communications, thus improving the relationships with the patients.

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ased in the city of Erbil, Hawler Medical University (HMU) is a public university set up by the Council of Ministers of the Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government in the year 2005. The university was established to include the medical group colleges that beloged to the University of Salahaddin-Erbil. The overall aim of the development of HMU was to improve the medical education in the Kurdistan region as well as to have better and more effective management of the colleges. Being the first medical group of a university in Iraq, HMU offers undergraduate and postgraduate studies in different Medical & Health Sciences. The university currently encompasses of five colleges – College of Medicine, College of Dentistry, College of Pharmacy, College of Nursing, and College of Health Sciences. It has two main campuses which are located in Erbil city. With the endorsement by the Council of Iraqi Federal government in March 2006, HMU has progressed to establish itself as a modern and successful center for medical and health education and research. It is backed up by the efforts of committed and talented staff and the support of Iraqi Kurdistan regional government. HMU’s

success is intended to increase its service to the community in Kurdistan region as a whole. Delivering Distinction HMU is committed to academic freedom and the principles of equal opportunity with no discrimination in delivering its services and applying knowledge with ambitious standards of intellectual, educational, and research productivity. It is intended to become a learning institution that provides education and research services in all fields of health and education like a modern medical university in a welldeveloped country. The University delivers this through the following goals: Clinical Competence Acquire enough skills that enable students to diagnose and manage clinical presentations including medical emergencies in a safe, effective, and efficient manner. Show enough skills in dealing with medical information including data gathering, entry, interpretation, and decision making. The Science and Practice of Medicine Apply the obtained knowledge from basic biomedical JULY 2019

Hawler Medical University

To be a national leader in providing excellent medical education, health care, and research

A Culture of Excellence Improving the Health of the Communities

sciences and research in the ďŹ eld of medicine (including community-based researches and foundations of epidemiology) in the best management of patients and disease prevention. The Social Contest of Medicine Understand and respond eďŹ&#x20AC;ectively to factors that inďŹ&#x201A;uence the psychological, social, and economic aspects in health, disease prevalence, and medical care. Professionalism Behave and communicate with patients, families, and the medical community in an ethical, compassionate, and legal manner, using proper interpersonal communication skills, and considering the prevailing rules and regulations. Lifelong learning Establish the foundations for lifelong learning to keep up with changes and continuous professional development, recognize own JULY 2019

About the President

Helming affairs at the University as its President is Dr. Dara O. Meran. He holds a BSc from the University of Mosul, an MSc and a Ph.D. from Poznan Academy Poland. In his illustrious career, Dr. Meran has played diverse roles in the education sector and has an extensive experience in higher education management and administration. He previously held positions of Vice President for Administration and Financial Affairs at the University of Salahaddin (1998-2004) and the Dean of the Colleges of Science (2000), Physical Education (1998 and 2004-2008), and Pharmacy (2010). He has taken part in different management and educational training courses in and outside the country. During his tenure at HMU, at first, he was University’s Vice President for Admin and Finance Affairs (2008-2015) and later in 2005 he was selected as the University’s President. Under his leadership, the university has advanced well in changing and developing the medical programs toward the spiral integrated medical curriculum model and in many other role developments, digitalization of the learning process, and research. Dr. Meran has been instrumental in the conception of new departments and increasing the enrollment rate of undergraduate and postgraduate students. When it comes to his contribution in addition and accreditation of study programs, his efforts have led to a rise the ranking of the university in the local and world university rankings. Overall, he has uplifted the whole university and as a result, HMU is now in the top group of universities in Kurdistan region. personal and professional limits, function effectively as a mentor, and teacher when possible. Learn and work effectively within a multi-professional team. More than Just Education The university caters to student education and overall development with utmost dedication and in the same regards, likes to conduct complete review and revisions of the curriculum and learning methodologies in different colleges. Within the College of Medicine, it has been successful in shifting from the classical medical curriculum towards the spiral integrated medical curriculum model. According to the university, there has been a focus on applying small group teaching and problem-based learning. The important topics of communication skills, scientific debate, critical thinking,

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professionalism, and ethics have been incorporated into the study program. All the colleges in the university started to apply these changes in their study programs. Some of the colleges are working to shift the study program toward a credit-based system based on the Bologna process.

The University also has a well-equipped and advanced medical research center with experienced researchers working in diﬀerent medical ﬁelds. It also includies the Center for Research, Education in Women Health, and the Psychosocial Support Center that provides essential services to the students and the community.

Additionally, keeping keen eyes on new trends and technology advancements, the university has taken important steps toward digitalization of the learning and management systems. Its new Moodle System has been installed successfully and is used as an online learning platform. The University has successfully achieved digitalizing of the professional development and faculty portfolio systems. Moreover, a new and contemporary website has been launched for the university.

Accomplished Alumni

In terms of scientific research, the university includes an advanced and well-equipped scientific research center, and the university encourages the staff to conduct research and publish their papers in internationally reputed journals. Training and Capacity development programs are continuously provided to the faculty staff and postgraduate students. The Center for Research and Education in Women’s Health has been established at HMU to promote research on women’s health and gender differences related to health. The center supports a network of faculty members in multiple disciplines who are interested in research collaborations to study various aspects of women’s health and women’s rights to health.

The university has a career development center, which is administered by experienced and well-trained staff and organizes regular activities and job fairs. All the graduates of the different colleges of HMU are recruited by the Iraqi Kurdistan Ministry of Health to serve in the public health sector. Graduates also work in the private health sector in private hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and pharmaceutical companies. The graduates who opt to work outside of the country and move to Europe of the US, are successful in obtaining jobs, equalizing their degrees, and pursue postgraduate studies. Education for Tomorrow The University keeps itself in line with the future to be ready for the ever-evolving medical field. For this, it regularly conducts complete review of the syllabi and academic programs. The University is moving forward toward the application of spiral integrated medical curriculum model, small group teaching, expanding the clinical skills labs, and application of the Bologna process and credit transfer system in some colleges. T R https://hmu.edu.krd/en/

When it comes to ranking, the University has seen rapid advancement in the ranking process at the national and international level. It is currently ranked in the first groups of universities in the National University Ranking in Iraqi Kurdistan Region. Round University Ranking ranks HMU at 5th place in Iraq and it has been bestowed with highest ranking in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region in the faculty staff ranking domain. On teaching level, the University has an excellent teacher-to-student ratio. The academic staff is experienced in both clinical and research aspects and the ratio of those with full professorship and assistant professors is remarkably high compared to the other universities in the region and Iraq as a whole. This feature has helped in applying small group teaching.

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The Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) An Embodiment of Knowledge and Spirituality

“H

ealth is wealth", a short yet famous proverb reﬂecting a deeper meaning that health is imperative to the balance and functioning of our bodies. It is also known that health aﬀects emotions and the overall well-being of humanity.

The 21st century is witnessing a rapid advancement in medical sciences. With pollution levels, as one of many examples, rising at an alarming rate, societies around the world are encountering major environmental hazards with drastic consequences to health. To remain ahead of these adversities, new curricula have been adopted in medical schools around the world, a worldwide initiative to equip medical students with the latest contemporary knowledge and skills to face these pressing health challenges. One such medical institution which has taken upon itself the responsibility of making the world a better place by taking care of the health of its community is the School of Medicine and Medical Sciences at the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) in Lebanon. A University with a Rich History and a Modern Infrastructure The Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) is a private Catholic higher education institution, founded in 1938 by the Lebanese Maronite Order (OLM), with the honor of being the ﬁrst such institution which has come about thanks to a Lebanese initiative. From its beginnings, USEK’s mission has been to serve the community and regularly meet the needs of social, health, and economic development. Today, the University is proudly ranked among the ﬁrst 5 universities in the country.

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Located in Jounieh in the heart of Mount Lebanon, this multilingual institution (English, French and Arabic), is committed to preserving the Maronite cultural heritage that underpins a community in which the spiritual, civic and ethical values of respecting others and their beliefs prevail. In addition to all it oďŹ&#x20AC;ers educationally, USEK is also known for its dynamic student life. It fosters student engagement on campus by helping to build an active social life through various means including international programs, events, cultural trips, and student gatherings. USEK is undoubtedly an institution keen on ensuring continuous expansion through state-of the-art systems and technologies, and fully-equipped facilities. Inspiring Students with Ambition Ranking among the best universities in Lebanon year after year is the proof of a solid commitment of its faculty and staďŹ&#x20AC; to serve the community while upholding the values of the Catholic Church. The School of Medicine and Medical

Sciences plays a prominent role in preparing current and future generations of well-trained physicians to become key contributors in improving the well-being of the Lebanese community. The USEK School of Medicine and Medical Sciences also aims at providing education that focuses on patients in every aspect by imparting to the next generation of doctors the latest knowledge and know-how in the ďŹ eld of basic sciences, world-class medical skills, and high ethical standards to better serve the community. The School upholds a set of key values including ethical practices and integrity among its students and faculty and promotes the pursuit of excellence. The School has been maturing under successive USEK presidents whose forwarding-thinking vision and unwavering support have led to a string of achievements, the latest being the TEPDAD international accreditation under the current president Reverend Father Dr. Talal Hachem. T R

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