The 15th International Congress of Anaesthesiologists of SAARC Countries has concluded. The congress took place in Ukulhas, Alifu Alifu Atoll, marking the first time Maldives has hosted the event.
The two-day conference, held on August 14 and 15, brought together anaesthesiologists from all countries in the South Asian region. The opening ceremony was attended by Director General of Health Services Dr Ahmed Ashraf and was organised jointly by the Maldivian Association of Anaesthesiologists, the Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare, and hospitals.
The conference opened with representatives of anaesthesiology associations from participating countries raising their national flags. As part of the opening ceremony, the Maldivian Association of Anaesthesiologists unveiled a plaque in memory of the late Dr Ibrahim Umar Manik, recognised for his service as the first Maldivian anaesthesiologist.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Director General of Health Services Dr Ashraf highlighted the importance of holding such congresses. He said the gathering should be made an opportunity for learning rather than merely an academic meeting.
He also noted that the participating countries face common challenges within their healthcare systems, stressing the importance of discussing solutions through such gatherings. Dr Ashraf said the knowledge shared at the congress provides an opportunity to strengthen healthcare systems.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, President of the Maldivian Association of Anaesthesiologists Dr Assad Ahmed Shaheed thanked the regional countries for their support in holding the gathering in the Maldives. He stressed the need to further develop the field in the Maldives and said the experience of anaesthesiologists from neighbouring countries would be valuable in achieving this. He also expressed hope that the associations from the region would continue to support these efforts.
During the two-day conference, participants shared information on the latest research in anaesthesiology and discussed current developments in the field from a scientific perspective. Experienced anaesthesiologists from across the region also participated and shared their expertise.
On August 14, ahead of the conference, visiting specialists conducted workshops on various topics at a hospital in the Male' area. The Health Ministry said the congress would help facilitate the development of human resources in the field.
A total of 220 participants attended the congress. Of these, 190 experienced anaesthesiology professionals from various SAARC countries took part.
The congress was last held in 2022. Although Bangladesh was selected to host the 2024 congress, it was not held there for various reasons. Following this, a decision was made to hold the congress in the Maldives for the first time.