In a groundbreaking move for the continent, medical students in Egypt have launched the first-ever “Health Diplomacy for Medical Students” programme in Africa, aimed at bridging the gap between medicine, public policy, and international relations.
The initiative, hosted at the Faculty of Medicine, Modern University for Technology and Information (MTI) in Cairo, is being hailed as a milestone in the integration of medical training with social responsibility.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that the event was organised under the umbrella of the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations – Egypt (IFMSA-Egypt), in collaboration with its MTI University branch, and supported by the Scientific Association of Medical Students. AfroMedia Initiative for Journalism and Media provided complimentary media sponsorship to raise awareness and amplify the voices of young African doctors.
“This is the first time such a programme is being held not just in Egypt but in the entire African continent,” said Hassan Ghazaly, anthropological researcher and founder of the Global Solidarity Network. “It sends a strong message about Egypt’s leadership in shaping a new narrative for African youth in healthcare and diplomacy.”
Ghazaly, who also serves as a member of the African Journalists Union, emphasised the relevance of anthropology in health development projects and highlighted opportunities for African doctors through state-backed and African Union programs.
“Doctors must understand the communities they serve. Health diplomacy is not just about treating patients—it’s about negotiating for better policies and being part of the system that delivers equitable healthcare,” he added.
The program was also open to Sudanese students and young doctors who fled the ongoing conflict in Sudan, making inclusivity and regional solidarity central pillars of the initiative.
“We were proud to provide a safe and enriching learning environment for Sudanese and other African students,” said Prof. Mohy El-Din Ragab El-Banna, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery at MTI. “Their participation enriches the program and promotes the values of unity and shared development across Africa.”
The diverse lineup of expert speakers and contributors from various sectors underscored the interdisciplinary nature of the program. Notable participants included:
Mr. Mostafa Magdy, Assistant to the Minister of Youth and Sports
Dr. Samah Kamel, Head of the Youth and Children Group at the United Nations
Dr. Mahmoud El-Qally, sustainable development trainer
Dr. Ahmed El-Rifai, political science expert
Dr. Dalia Ghazlan, public health awareness specialist
Mr. Hamada Qaoud, expert at the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development
Ahmed Aboudouma, Legal Committee Head, Arab Youth Platform for Sustainable Development
Dr. Rumaila Shahir, sustainable development consultant and Head of the German Academy in Cairo
The sessions explored an array of timely topics including youth and public diplomacy, international law and health, personal branding for doctors, negotiation skills, and the role of youth in shaping health policy.
“Our goal is to equip young doctors with the tools to do more than just practice medicine,” said Dr. Rumaila Shahir. “We want them to lead, to negotiate, and to advocate for better health systems locally and internationally.”
The initiative also aims to close the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world impact.
“We are building a generation of doctors who understand that healthcare extends beyond hospital walls,” said Dr. Samah Kamel. “This program teaches them to be community advocates and policy influencers.”
In recognition of the faculty’s role in supporting the initiative, Ghazaly offered special appreciation to Prof. El-Banna and Prof. Hesham Mohamed Omran, Vice Dean for Student Affairs, for “their consistent commitment to empowering both Egyptian and African students.”
Organisers say the “Health Diplomacy” program is just the beginning. Future editions are being planned to deepen its reach, expand its themes, and consolidate Egypt’s role as a regional hub for medical diplomacy and sustainable development.
“This is more than a program—it’s a movement,” said a student organizer. “We’re changing how medical students see their role in soc
iety. We’re not just future doctors—we’re future leaders.”
