LONDON, (PIC)
The Palestinian Doctors Association in Europe, “PalMed,” successfully raised over $150,000 to support medical students in Gaza through the “GEM” (Gaza Education Medical) initiative. This accomplishment was announced during a comprehensive academic day held at the Royal College of Physicians in London on Saturday, November 23, 2024, with the participation of prominent international doctors and experts.
Reviving medical education in Gaza: Challenges and Solutions
The conference, titled “Reviving Medical Education in Gaza: Challenges and Solutions,” highlighted the significant difficulties facing Gaza’s medical education infrastructure due to the ongoing blockade and systematic destruction of healthcare and educational facilities. The event featured panel discussions and academic presentations emphasizing the importance of innovation and international collaboration in supporting medical education.
Dr. Hossam Al-Din Adwan, a consultant surgeon at Wirral University Hospital in the UK and the chair of the “GEM” conference, stated, “By participating today, you are fueling the flame of hope, not just for students and faculty members but for all the people of Gaza.”
An investment in Gaza’s future
Professor Mahmoud Loubani, a consultant in cardiothoracic surgery and the president of PalMed Academy, underscored the importance of the initiative, saying, “The funds raised today will directly support medical students in Gaza through the GEM program. This program is an investment in Gaza’s future, aiming to ensure the continuity of medical education and to prepare qualified medical professionals to serve the community.”
He further explained that since its launch in June 2024, the initiative has enrolled over 2,100 students, supported by more than 1,000 international volunteers who provide lectures and assistance through a comprehensive educational platform.
Challenges in Medical Education in Gaza
The conference shed light on the current state of medical schools in Gaza, particularly those at Al-Azhar University and the Islamic University. Both institutions face severe challenges, including infrastructure destruction and a lack of essential educational and medical resources. Before the recent conflict, approximately 2,500 students were enrolled in medical programs across Gaza.
Dr. Anwar Sheikh Khalil, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the Islamic University of Gaza, commented, “The devastation inflicted on the infrastructure of medical education threatens not only the future of students but also the entire healthcare system in Gaza.”
A global message of solidarity
The event welcomed distinguished international figures, including Professor Mads Gilbert, a renowned Norwegian doctor known for his humanitarian support for Gaza, and Dr. Husam Zomlot, Palestine’s Ambassador to the UK, who stressed the vital role of education in Palestinian resilience. Dr. Riyad Misharqa, Chair of the Advisory Council for the Palestinian Doctors Association in Europe, also praised the determination and excellence of Gaza’s medical students, emphasizing the initiative’s role in ensuring their future and the sustainability of Gaza’s medical schools.
Students from Gaza joined the conference virtually. Lina Abu Hein, one of the participants, described the daily hardships and dangers students face, particularly while commuting to hospitals for clinical training. She also highlighted the critical resources needed to support their education. Tariq Abdel Jawad, chair of the student engagement committee in the GEM program, shared his personal experience and the role he and his peers played in hospitals during the war. He emphasized that international support provides them with hope and motivation to continue their education and serve their community.
Charity dinner and fundraising
The academic day concluded with a charity dinner, during which attendees raised funds to support the initiative. The efforts resulted in collecting over $150,000 in donations to aid medical students in Gaza, fostering an atmosphere of solidarity and determination to achieve the program’s goals.
PalMed Academy: A vision for sustainable medical education
PalMed Academy is the educational arm of the Palestinian Doctors Association in Europe. Established in 2022, the academy aims to elevate healthcare standards for Palestinians through education and training. It collaborates with universities and international institutions to provide advanced educational materials and training programs.
Through its initiatives, PalMed and its partners strive to sustain medical education in Gaza as a pillar of Palestinian resilience amidst the immense challenges posed by the ongoing blockade and occupation.
