DTH-Lab at the IFMSA Regional Meeting for the Eastern Mediterranean Region
Digital Transformations for Health Lab (DTH-Lab) made a significant impact at the recent IFMSA Regional Meeting for the Eastern Mediterranean Region where DTH-Lab’s delegate Dr. Nojus Saad, Regional Youth Champion from Northern Africa and Western Asia joined in person.
The International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA) convened its annual meeting for the Eastern Mediterranean Region from the 8 to 12 February in Amman, Jordan, hosting the largest gathering of medical students from North African and Middle Eastern countries, the event’s theme was “Digital Revolution, Transforming Healthcare.”
As a long standing partner of IFMSA with expertise in the digital transformation for health, the DTH-Lab was invited to several sessions including the opening ceremony, a panel discussion and an interactive workshop. Nojus actively engaged in the discussions, sharing valuable insights and experiences, ultimately fostering dialogue with delegates to gather their perspectives and recommendations on DTH-Lab’s initiatives.
Highlights of Nojus’ participation included delivering a compelling 3-minute presentation on digital health during the opening ceremony. His speech underscored the essential role of youth in shaping digital-first health systems and was delivered to an audience of over 300 medical students, experts, health organization representatives, and the esteemed HRH Princess Dina Mired of Jordan.
Nojus was also involved in a Panel Discussion on Telemedicine due to his expertise in the region. The panel aimed to inspire action towards advancing digital health in the MENA region, featuring distinguished panelists. Nojus shared lessons learned from his international research project on digital health, as well the work of his NGO, Youth For Women Foundation, highlighting findings from projects in Iraq and France.
The pinnacle of DTH-Lab’s engagement was the pilot workshop at the regional level on Digital Health First Systems (DFHS). Attended by 40 enthusiastic medical students from the MENA Region, the workshop aimed to harness youth ideas and recommendations to shape the DFHS blueprint currently being led by DTH-Lab. The session was fast paced and extremely interactive, a reflection of the energy and motivation of participants on co-designing digital first health system solutions – underscoring the relevance of the DTH-Lab’s endeavours with young people.
In conclusion, DTH-Lab’s presence at the IFMSA Regional Meeting exemplified its commitment to advancing digital health solutions with and for young people. Nojus’ impactful contributions, coupled with the enthusiastic participation of attendees, reflect the collective dedication to shaping a future where digital-first health systems drive positive change. As we reflect on the exchanges, insights, and collaborative efforts fostered during this gathering, we are inspired to continue our efforts in leveraging youth involvement and fostering collaborative partnerships.
