A Qualitative Step to Bolster the Healthcare Sector in Northern Syria

The Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (SBOMS) hosted a graduation and honoring ceremony for approximately 400 doctors representing 35 diverse medical specialties in northern Syria, attended by prominent official and academic figures. This event marks a significant stride toward strengthening and advancing the region’s healthcare system, embodying ongoing efforts to enhance medical services despite persistent challenges. Held at the auditorium of the Cultural Center in Idlib, the ceremony commenced with the arrival of distinguished guests from the healthcare and academic sectors, followed by an opening address from the organizers, who welcomed attendees and commended the graduates’ achievements.

A Rich Attendance Reflecting Hope and Progress in Healthcare

The event drew a notable gathering of key figures from the healthcare and academic fields, underscoring the sustained support for improving healthcare services in Syria amid ongoing difficulties. Attendees included:

• Deputy Minister of Health
• Director of Planning and International Cooperation at the Ministry of Health
• Health Directors of Idlib, Tartous, and Deir ez-Zor
• Head of the Syrian Medical Association, and Heads of Medical Associations in Hama, Idlib, Aleppo, and Deir ez-Zor
• Representatives from Syrian universities in the north, including the President of Northern University and the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Idlib University
• Representatives from medical services and local and foreign medical organizations, in addition to media professionals and influencers.

Inspiring Words from the Participants

The ceremony commenced at the auditorium of the Cultural Center in Idlib, welcoming numerous distinguished guests representing key figures and institutions in the region’s healthcare and academic sectors. They all expressed their deep appreciation for this cohort of physicians, emphasizing that this moment marks a pivotal milestone in rebuilding Syria’s healthcare system. They acknowledged the unwavering dedication of the graduating doctors, who persevered despite the country’s challenging circumstances.

Dr. Hussein Al-Khatib, Deputy Minister of Health, opened his speech by highlighting the significance of this cohort in shaping Syria’s future. He praised the sacrifices of doctors who worked under the difficult conditions of war and siege, affirming that they represent the hope for renewing the country’s healthcare system. He also urged the graduates to continue their academic and professional journey with determination and commitment to serving their nation.

Dr. Zuhair Al-Qarrat, Deputy Minister of Health and Director of Planning and International Cooperation – Director of Idlib Health Directorate, spoke about the vital role of the Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (SBOMS) in bridging the gaps left by the war in the healthcare system. He noted that SBOMS has successfully trained more than 400 doctors across various specialties. He emphasized the importance of sustaining medical education in Syria, asserting that this graduating class will be a cornerstone in delivering high-quality healthcare.

Dr. Malik Al-Atwi, President of the Syrian Medical Syndicate and Chair of the Scientific Council for Ophthalmology at SBOMS, commended the graduates, describing them as the foundation of hope for advancing healthcare in Syria. He stressed that newly graduated doctors should serve as role models in their communities, as their profession carries a noble mission that demands continuous dedication to patient care. Additionally, he underscored the importance of scientific research in enhancing medical practices.

Dr. Mohammad Abdulhay, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and President of Al-Shamal Private University, reaffirmed that the Ministry of Higher Education remains the primary pillar supporting doctors in Syria. He praised the quality of education received by medical graduates in Syrian universities and acknowledged their professionalism in handling medical cases despite difficult circumstances. He highlighted their excellence across various medical specialties and applauded the role of academic specialists in elevating medical education in Syria. He also paid tribute to the healthcare martyrs who sacrificed their lives in service of their country, considering them an inspiration for the graduates. Concluding his speech, he congratulated the graduates and urged them to be a source of pride for their nation.

Recognition of Medical and Scientific Contributions

The ceremony also featured a recognition of the scientific councils and medical trainers, as well as the academic and governmental institutions that played a vital role in the educational process, including:

• The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Higher Education
• Health Directorates in northern Syria
• The Syrian Medical Syndicate
• Local and international medical organizations

Messages of Hope and a Promising Future

In a series of inspiring speeches, several distinguished figures expressed their optimism for the future of the medical sector in Syria:

• Dr. Safwan Al-Shalati, President of the Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (SBOMS), emphasized that this event reflects the unwavering determination of doctors to serve their communities despite challenging circumstances. He commended the dedication of both the graduates and their mentors in ensuring the success of the educational journey. He also highlighted that, despite numerous difficulties, SBOMS has successfully fostered a productive medical learning environment that contributes to the advancement of the healthcare system.
• Dr. Wassim Zakaria, Head of the Department of Continuing Medical Education and Scientific Research, spoke about the achievements of doctors in authoring and translating medical books and conducting scientific research. He highlighted their crucial role in elevating both the academic and medical standards in the region. He also stressed the importance of scientific research in providing solutions to various medical challenges.
• Dr. Ata’a Al-Bakour delivered the speech on behalf of the female graduates, praising the role of women in the medical and educational fields. She expressed her pride in being part of a new generation of doctors poised to lead Syria’s medical sector forward. She emphasized that women have demonstrated exceptional capabilities in excelling and contributing to the enhancement of healthcare quality.

• Dr. Alaa Al-Barhoum delivered the speech on behalf of the graduates, expressing his profound gratitude to the mentors who played a key role in developing their clinical and academic skills. He emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and striving for excellence in medical practice. He also paid tribute to the healthcare martyrs who sacrificed their lives in service of their country, noting that the graduates’ success is a continuation of those sacrifices.

A Moment of Celebration and Recognition

The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt celebration, as graduates ascended the stage to receive their certificates in an atmosphere filled with pride and joy. The top-performing graduates who excelled in their studies and training were also honored. A commemorative group photo was taken, capturing this remarkable achievement and marking the beginning of the graduates’ journey to serve their communities.

A Step Toward the Future

The graduation of this cohort marks a significant milestone in the development of the healthcare sector in northern Syria. It stands as a message of hope, showcasing the resilience of medical professionals in overcoming challenges and their commitment to building a more stable and promising future for community health.