The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) – Medical University of Bahrain welcomed a delegation from the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in Bahrain to its campus to explore opportunities for collaboration in health education and development.

Dr Assad Hafeez, Acting WHO Representative in Bahrain, was welcomed by Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, accompanied by members of the University management and student representatives. Dr Naeema Al-Qasser was also present during the meeting. 

The visit featured an overview by Mr Fadi Ghosn, Head of Recognition, Careers & Alumni, highlighting the University’s community engagement initiatives and its partnership with Operation Childlife—a humanitarian programme providing specialist surgical care and training in developing regions, led by Professor Martin Corbally, Head of the Department of Surgery. Discussions also explored opportunities for future collaboration between WHO and RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, building on shared priorities and contributing to the enhancement of global health communities. 

Students who recently took part in an Operation Childlife mission to Jordan, organised in collaboration with the Bahrain Red Crescent Society and the Jordan Red Crescent Society, shared their experiences during the visit. Their reflections highlighted how clinical training and humanitarian service are seamlessly integrated into RCSI Medical University of Bahrain’s approach to developing compassionate, globally minded healthcare professionals. 

Dr Hafeez stated: “I would like to congratulate RCSI Medical University of Bahrain and Operation Childlife for their outstanding efforts and commitment to improving health outcomes. The work being carried out here demonstrates the power of collaboration in strengthening health systems for universal health coverage.  

WHO looks forward to collaborating with RCSI Bahrain oninitiatives which promote, provide and protect health.”  

Professor Otoom added: “It was an honour to welcome the World Health Organization delegation to RCSI Bahrain. Our discussions reflected a shared commitment to advancing public health, promoting sustainable development, and supporting initiatives that contribute to broader health advancement and community resilience across the region. We extend our sincere thanks to the WHO for their continued guidance and partnership, which reinforce our efforts to make a meaningful social impact.” 

This visit reaffirms the shared commitment of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain and the WHO to promoting public health through collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development.