Muscat: Oman is set to host the 21st Regional Meeting of Medical Students’ Associations in the Eastern Mediterranean Region on Thursday, with participation from over 450 students representing more than 18 countries.
Dr. Hind bint Yousef Al Balushi, Chairperson of the Organising Committee, noted that Oman’s selection to host this significant event, facilitated by the Oman Medical Students Association (MedSCO), followed a competitive bidding process among various nations. This occasion serves as a strategic opportunity to position Oman as a prominent player in the medical sector both regionally and globally.
She emphasized that the meeting will foster the exchange of ideas and experiences, promote health collaboration, and act as a crucial platform for empowering youth. It aims to inspire a new generation of health leaders and enhance their involvement in developing sustainable solutions to both local and global health issues.
Dr. Al Balushi further explained that hosting this event reinforces Oman’s ongoing commitment to engaging young people in international forums, facilitating cultural exchange, and establishing strategic relationships with international delegations from over 18 countries. It also lays the groundwork for future large-scale events, such as the International Meeting of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA General Assembly).
She highlighted that the meeting is supported by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the Ministry of Health, and will feature participation from esteemed international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Middle East and North Africa Office (CDC MENA), who will contribute as official speakers and panel members in discussions and dialogue sessions.
She emphasized that this event will serve as a platform for developing the leadership, organizational, and active participation skills of Omani youth, ultimately resulting in a cohort of trainers certified by the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations.
She highlighted that the annual regional meeting features impactful programs, including various general sessions, workshops, and training sessions that cover a range of topics such as non-communicable diseases, adolescent health, and mental health. Additionally, it will host research competitions and an exhibition of projects and initiatives aimed at knowledge exchange.
It is important to note that the Medical Students Society of Oman (MedSCO), founded in 2006, represents medical students from Sultan Qaboos University and the National University of Science and Technology.
As an active member of the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA), MedSCO is dedicated to empowering Omani youth by equipping them with the necessary expertise, skills, and values to take on leadership roles in the health sector both locally and globally, while also serving the community and medical students in the Sultanate of Oman.
