Empowering the next generation of surgeons

The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh conducted a transformative one-day MRCS preparatory course at Aga Khan University (AKU) in Karachi on 21 March. This event marked an exciting and rewarding collaboration between two globally recognised institutions, uniting their shared commitment to excellence in medical education and surgical practice.

The course was designed to equip future surgeons with the essential tools to succeed in the MRCS examination. With the College’s expertise in surgical education and AKU’s cutting-edge medical facilities, the participants were provided with a unique opportunity to engage with world-class educators and refine their clinical skills. The collaboration between RCSEd and AKU represents a perfect synergy, blending global expertise with local needs, and reflects the ongoing efforts to enhance surgical education in Pakistan and the broader region.

Led by a distinguished faculty of internationally renowned examiners, the course offered a dynamic blend of theory and practical application. Faculty members, each a leader in their respective field, brought a wealth of clinical experience, a passion for teaching and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of surgeons. The faculty’s interactive teaching style not only deepened participants’ understanding of key MRCS topics but also provided invaluable insights into clinical problem-solving, patient management and surgical procedures. The faculty comprised MRCS examiners from Pakistan, Professor Muhammad Rizwan Khan, Brigadier Saood Rao and Ambreen Munir and, from the UK, Zahid Raza, Asad Parvaiz and Professor Peter Bazira.

The participants were a diverse and eager group of young learners looking to refine their surgical knowledge. Their enthusiasm and dedication were palpable throughout the course as they actively engaged in stimulating discussions, clinical scenarios and hands-on practice sessions. The course was designed to foster collaboration, allowing the participants to learn not only from the expert faculty but also from their peers, sharing insights, experiences and challenges faced in their respective medical journeys. One of the most remarkable aspects of the event was the focus on practical, real-world learning. The course emphasised not just theoretical knowledge but also the practical skills needed to excel in surgery. With the support RCSEd provides to women in surgery, it was refreshing to see more female surgeons than their male counterparts attending this event. This is also reflected in the fact that Pakistan has the highest percentage of female MRCS examiners of any country in the world.

The one-day MRCS preparatory course was not just an educational event, it was a powerful reminder of the immense potential in the surgical community. The passion, drive and commitment shown by both the faculty and participants highlighted the bright future of surgery in Pakistan and beyond. As the participants leave with renewed confidence, expanded knowledge and refined skills, they are better prepared to take the next step in their surgical careers, equipped to face the challenges of the MRCS examination and the demands of real-world surgery.