IMSG-UK Holds Annual Symposium

Earlier today, the Ibadan Medical Specialists Group, United Kingdom had their annual symposium at the Paul Hendrickse Lecture Theatre, University College Hospital.

The program kicked off around 11 am and had important dignitaries in attendance amongst whom were; the first Provost of the College of Medicine, UCH, Emeritus Professor Oluwole Akande, the Worldwide President of the Ibadan College of Medicine Alumni Association (ICOMAA), Professor Emmanuel Otolorin, the current Provost, Professor Temidayo Ogundiran, ably represented by the Deputy Provost, Professor S.B Olaleye and many others.

The President of the IMSG-UK, Dr. Bode Williams declared the program open by sharing his remarks on the laudable feats which have been achieved by their group since inception. He also provided a glimpse into forthcoming projects that will benefit the College, doctors, and students in general.

During his address, the President of ICOMAA expressed his excitement about the choice of theme for this year’s symposium as it was a special area of interest for him. He appreciated the group for their constant support to the College and urged them not to relent in their efforts. He also urged the students to stay diligent in their studies, so they can emulate the actions of the IMSG when they enter the profession. 

During their address, Professor Bukola Adesina and Dr. Olabisi Oshikanlu gave a brief update about the Global Sponsor A Student Programme (GSASP), an initiative that was started as an avenue to provide financial support to indigent medical students. So far, they’ve had a total of 19 beneficiaries, among which a good number are now inducted medical doctors and dentists.

Dr. Bunmi Abodunde, a Consultant Primary Care Physician at UCH, talked about primary care challenges in Nigeria and the solutions that have been proffered so far.

Another notable presentation titled "Primary Care Initiatives in Oyo State, Nigeria", was given by the Commissioner for Health, Oyo State, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, represented by the Director of Public Health, Oyo State Government. 

During the presentation, several initiatives brought up by the Oyo State Government to further ensure the availability of primary healthcare were discussed, and the most notable one was implementing a semiautonomous financial status with a 70:30 ratio for selected hospitals providing primary healthcare. This allocation strategy dedicates 70% of the funds to hospital services, with the remaining 30% reserved for Board and Administrative expenses. Other initiatives include integrated mobile health outreaches, digital health, and data management initiatives, and quarterly free health missions. 

After the presentations, plaques were given to the presenters by the ICOMAA President as an appreciation for their efforts towards the success of the program. The IMSG members then proceeded to commence their Annual General Meeting while the students and other attendees were excused.

The second half of the symposium commenced at 4 pm with a presentation from Associate Professor Jibril Abdulmalik, CEO/Founder of Asido Foundation. His discussed the need to integrate mental health into the primary health care system in Nigeria as it is a standing policy and also the 9th pillar of the Medical Rights in Nigeria. In his words, “....this remains the best and most pragmatic way to confront all challenges posed by mental health issues”.

Presentations were taken from undergraduates and postgraduate individuals, with Mr. Adeniyi Adesola, a 600L medical student claiming the prize for best presentation with his topic “Explaining Burnout in Medical Education; A Review Amidst Unibadan Medical Students.”

The last presentation for the day was taken virtually by Dr. Tonye Wokoma, a Consultant Sexual & Reproductive Health and Community Gynaecologist.

The symposium came to an end by 6 pm. Attendees said their goodbyes and also took a moment to take pictures with the IMSG members, preserving memories of the day's conversations and connections. 

Shittu, Opeyemi Habeeb