In February, RCSEd President Professor Rowan Parks travelled to Karachi for the MRCS Exam and participated in the social engagement event hosted by Aga Khan University.
Pakistan has been hosting intercollegiate MRCS Part B Clinical Exams organised by the College in various cities over the last few years. Mr Zahid Raza, member of College Council and Convener of Examinations, has been instrumental in promoting the College's exams in the region.
The Centre for Innovation in Medical Education (CIME) at Aga Khan University Karachi
was one of the examination centres in Pakistan and was proven to be one of the best examination venues for the College. Professor Muhammad Rizwan Khan, Professor of Surgery and Associate Dean Postgraduate Medical Education at Aga Khan University, was the local host and also the International Surgical Ambassador to the College.
The social engagement event hosted by the Aga Khan University was intended to strengthen international ties, foster collaboration in medical education and practice, and recognise the role of the College at an international level. The event was attended by a good number of participants, including leadership, faculty and trainees of Aga Khan University, College examiners and a number of College Fellows and Members in Pakistan, who travelled long distances to take part in the event.
Professor Muhammad Rizwan Khan warmly welcomed the participants and extended his thanks to the RCSEd President, as well as the College faculty for their travel to Karachi. RCSEd President Professor Rowan Parks delivered a keynote address, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in advancing education, surgical practice and patient care. The speech emphasised RCSEd's commitment to fostering global partnerships and supporting the professional growth of its members worldwide. This was followed by social networking and informal discussions, culminating in a high tea.
The event received fantastic feedback and resulted in greatly enhancing the visibility and reputation of the College at international stage. The conversations following the event fostered mutual agreements between the medical communities of Pakistan and Scotland, through the College's Members and Fellows serving as its ambassadors.
President Parks’ visit to Pakistan was a resounding success, furthering the College's mission of promoting excellence in surgical education, training, and practice on a global scale. He recognised the role of International Surgical Ambassadors as well as the College's Fellows and Members in promoting a positive image of the College across the surgical community. The engagement and participation in the social event underscored the importance of building strong relationships with colleagues around the world.
Written by Dr Muhammad Rizwan Khan, RCSEd International Surgical Ambassador