The 15th International Congress of Anaesthesiologists of SAARC Countries is set to be held in the Maldives, marking the first time the country has hosted the event, the Maldives Anaesthesiologists Association announced. The event is set be held in Ukulhas in Alifu Alifu Atoll.
Organised alongside the Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare and local hospitals, the conference will run from 15 to 16 August. Over 200 delegates, alongside notable regional and international experts, have registered to discuss clinical advancements and strengthen professional ties.
Speaking on Public Service Media’s 'Raajje Miadhu' programme, Dr Ahmed Ashraf, director general of health services, underscored the gathering's educational significance. "Through this, we can discuss the initiatives we can carry forward," Dr Ashraf stated, adding that officials hope to explore local training opportunities.
Although offered previously, hosting the congress was impossible due to an acute doctor shortage, explained Dr Asadh Mohamed Shaheed, consultant in anaesthesiology at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital. "During the 1980s, there was only one person," Dr Asadh observed, noting the nation only recently expanded to 11 active Maldivian specialists.
A day prior, technical specialists will conduct specialised workshops for 120 doctors across four Malé region facilities: critical care at Hulhumalé Hospital, chronic pain management at Tree Top Hospital, airway management at ADK Hospital, and regional anaesthesia at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital.
Health ministry projections indicate the two-day event will expand domestic medical capacity, advancing healthcare while driving economic growth.