Question 1 :Lets start with a short introduction about yourself & the story of how you became involved in medical students societies & associations?

Answer:

I am Dr. Asadur Rahman Nabin, and I have been actively engaged in various medical student societies and associations throughout my academic career.

My journey began with my passion for medical education and advocacy. As a medical student, I witnessed the power of collective effort and the profound impact it can have on shaping healthcare systems and policies. It was this realization that motivated me to actively participate in medical student societies and associations, enabling me to contribute to the development of the healthcare community.

I started my journey by joining the Bangladesh Medical Students Society (BMSS), an esteemed platform where passionate medical students come together to address various challenges in our healthcare system. Being a part of BMSS exposed me to a diverse range of responsibilities and opportunities to make a positive change.

During my time with BMSS, I served as the Local Committee Coordinator of the Bangladesh Medical College Local Committee for two terms, where I actively organized numerous health awareness campaigns and community outreach programs. This experience gave me a deeper understanding of the key issues faced by our communities and the importance of bridging the gap between medical practitioners and the general public.

As I progressed in my medical career, I was elected as the National Officer Assist and the next year as the National Officer of the Standing Committee on Human Rights & Peace. In this role, I worked tirelessly to promote human rights and peace initiatives within the medical society, creating awareness among our fellow students about the importance of these fundamental aspects of healthcare with more than 50 activities involving 3000+ medical students and non-medical population from all around Bangladesh

Recognizing my dedication and leadership skills, I was then appointed as the Vice President of Internal Affairs, where I focused on fostering strong connections and collaboration among various national and international medical student associations. This position allowed me to develop a broader perspective and actively contribute to the global medical community. I got engaged with 13000+ medical students from around Bangladesh and advocated for multiple health initiatives.

Currently, I hold the position of Vice President Of Capacity Building of the International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA). In this esteemed role, I collaborate with medical student leaders and organizations from around the world to develop and implement capacity-building programs. Through these initiatives, we aim to enhance the skills and knowledge of future healthcare professionals, equipping them to tackle the complex challenges we face in the ever-evolving field of medicine.

I am also acting as the President of Bangladesh Medical Students Society,my role and duties are multifaceted and crucial for the smooth functioning of the organization.I provide visionary leadership to the BMSS, setting a strategic direction and ensuring that our goals align with the needs and aspirations of medical students in Bangladesh. I guide the executive committee members and actively engage them in decision-making processes.

My involvement in medical student societies and associations has been an incredible journey that has shaped not only my medical career but also my perspective on healthcare. I am grateful for the opportunities these positions have provided, allowing me to be an advocate for change, whilst working towards a better future for healthcare professionals and patients alike.

Question 2 :Tell us the story behind the establishment of BMSS & the overarching vision that guided its inception

Answer:

The establishment of Bangladesh Medical Students Society (BMSS) is rooted in a history of remarkable dedication and passion among medical students in Bangladesh. It was founded with a clear vision to foster professional growth, encourage research and innovation, and provide a platform for collaboration and development among medical students.

The story of BMSS begins with a group of enthusiastic medical students who recognized the need for an organized platform that could address the unique challenges faced by medical students in Bangladesh. These challenges included limited research opportunities, a lack of leadership development, and inadequate networking possibilities.

The founding members of BMSS shared a common aspiration: to bridge these gaps and create a supportive community for medical students across Bangladesh. With this vision in mind, they came together and officially established BMSS.

The overarching vision that guided the inception of BMSS was to build a society that nurtured excellence in medical education, research, and professional development. The founders aimed to provide a platform for medical students to showcase their talents, exchange knowledge, and collaborate on projects that would benefit the healthcare sector in Bangladesh.

From its inception, BMSS has been committed to promoting research and innovation among medical students. Recognizing the importance of research in advancing medical knowledge and practice, BMSS has constantly encouraged students to engage in research activities through various initiatives. These include organizing research conferences, workshops, and seminars, as well as providing resources and guidance for research projects.

Furthermore, BMSS has emphasized leadership development among its members. Through workshops and training programs, it equips medical students with the necessary skills to become effective leaders within the healthcare system. By nurturing leadership qualities, BMSS aims to create healthcare professionals who can address the evolving needs of the population and contribute significantly to the betterment of society.

In addition, BMSS recognizes the significance of networking and collaboration in the medical field. It encourages students to form connections not only within their own institutions but also with medical students from other universities in Bangladesh and beyond. Such collaborations foster learning, sharing of experiences, and the exchange of ideas, ultimately leading to the growth and advancement of medical education and practice in the country.

Overall, the establishment of BMSS and its overarching vision have played a vital role in transforming the medical education landscape in Bangladesh. Through its relentless efforts to promote research, develop leaders, and foster collaborations, BMSS has created a supportive environment for medical students, empowering them to become well-rounded professionals capable of making significant contributions to healthcare.

Question 3 :Could you elaborate on the specific roles & responsibilities you fulfill within BMSS?

Answer:

As the President of the Bangladesh Medical Students Society (BMSS), I am responsible for overseeing and leading the organization’s activities and initiatives. My role entails a combination of administrative, strategic, and representative responsibilities.

First and foremost, I am responsible for providing overall leadership and direction to the BMSS. I work closely with the executive board and committee members to establish organizational goals, develop strategies, and ensure their effective implementation. Moreover, I am accountable for maintaining clear communication channels within the society and ensuring that all members are updated on our activities, projects, and events.

In addition, I actively represent the BMSS in various forums and meetings. This includes collaborating with external stakeholders such as medical colleges, universities, governmental bodies, and non-governmental organizations. I aim to foster partnerships and collaborations that align with our mission of advancing medical education, promoting research, and advocating for the well-being of medical students.

Promoting professional development and educational growth among our members is another key responsibility of mine. I work closely with the team to organize workshops, conferences, and seminars featuring renowned medical professionals and experts. By facilitating these educational opportunities, I aim to enhance the knowledge and skills of our members, enabling them to become well-rounded medical practitioners in the future.

Furthermore, I take on the responsibility of ensuring the welfare of our members. Together with the executive board, I address any concerns, challenges, or issues faced by the medical student community. By establishing a supportive and inclusive environment, we strive to promote the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of our members.

Being the President of the BMSS requires a sense of dedication, commitment, and integrity. It is my duty to lead by example and foster a spirit of teamwork and collaboration within our organization. I constantly endeavor to motivate our members to achieve excellence, facilitate their growth, and foster a sense of belonging within the medical community.

In summary, my role as the President of the BMSS encompasses a wide range of responsibilities. From strategic planning and representing the society to nurturing professional development and ensuring member welfare, I am dedicated to driving the organization forward and creating a positive impact on the medical student community in Bangladesh.

Question 4 :In what ways does BMSS contribute to the professional development & support of healthcare professionals?

Answer:

The Bangladesh Medical Students Society (BMSS) contributes to the professional development and support of healthcare professionals in various ways:

Workshops and Seminars: BMSS organizes workshops and seminars on a range of topics, including medical research, clinical skills, public health, leadership development, and professional ethics. These events provide opportunities for healthcare professionals to enhance their knowledge and skills, keeping them up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.The Sub Regional Training (SRT) is an important capacity-building program organized by the Bangladesh Medical Students Society (BMSS). This program aims to enhance the skills, knowledge, and expertise of medical students from different regions .he SRT program is designed to provide comprehensive training to participants by covering various topics and domains in the medical field. It brings together medical students from different backgrounds and regions, fostering intercultural exchange and collaboration. The program is structured in a way that promotes active learning and group activities.One of the key objectives of the SRT program is to foster leadership and teamwork skills among medical students. Participants engage in team-building exercises, group discussions, and collaborative projects that facilitate their ability to work effectively in a team. This not only prepares them for their future medical careers but also helps them develop necessary interpersonal skills.

Continuing Medical Education (CME): BMSS conducts CME programs that offer healthcare professionals the chance to learn new medical advancements, evidence-based practices, and guidelines. These programs help professionals maintain their competence and improve patient care.

Research Support: BMSS actively encourages medical and healthcare professionals to engage in research activities. They provide support and resources to facilitate research collaborations, offer mentorship, and organize research competitions. Through these initiatives, BMSS encourages evidence-based practice and helps professionals contribute to scientific knowledge in their respective fields.

Networking Opportunities: BMSS organizes conferences, symposiums, and scientific events that bring together healthcare professionals from various disciplines. These gatherings promote networking and knowledge sharing among professionals, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and the exchange of ideas.BMSScollaborated with the World Health Organization (WHO) to organize the WHO Simulation 2023 and Walk the Talk 2023 events. The WHO Simulation is a unique initiative that provides medical students with an opportunity to simulating the challenges and decision-making processes they may encounter as future healthcare professionals. This experience allows students to enhance their skills, gain practical knowledge, and develop collaborative problem-solving abilities.

Walk the Talk 2023 is an advocacy event organized by the WHO and BMSS. It aims to promote physical activity and healthy living by encouraging individuals and communities to participate in various physical activities like walking, jogging, and cycling. This event strives to raise awareness about the importance of an active lifestyle and its positive impact on overall health and well-being.

In addition to the collaboration with the WHO, BMSS also partnered with UNAids to organize the event called “Nondinir Kotha 2023.” This event focuses on raising awareness about HIV/AIDS, combating stigma associated with the disease, and promoting access to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services. Nondinir Kotha 2023 aims to engage the community in open dialogue, where individuals affected by HIV/AIDS can share their experiences and foster a supportive environment.

These collaborations between BMSS, the WHO, and UNAids underline the commitment to address critical health issues, educating and empowering medical students, and fostering community engagement. Through these events, the organizations aim to enhance healthcare practices, promote healthy living, and reduce the impact of diseases such as HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh.

Career Guidance: BMSS facilitates career guidance sessions, panel discussions, and mentorship programs to help medical students and young professionals make informed decisions about their career paths. They help professionals explore different specialties, provide advice on residency programs, and guide them towards opportunities for further education and professional growth.

Health Awareness Campaigns: BMSS conducts health awareness campaigns targeting both healthcare professionals and the general public. By raising awareness about various health issues, prevention methods, and the importance of healthcare access, they contribute to the overall well-being of society.

Advocacy and Policy Influence: BMSS actively engages in advocacy efforts to address the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and contribute to policy developments in the healthcare sector. They work towards improving healthcare infrastructure, resource allocation, and promoting the rights and welfare of healthcare professionals.

Through these initiatives, the Bangladesh Medical Students Society plays a significant role in the professional development and support of healthcare professionals, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to excel in their careers and make a positive impact on the healthcare sector.

Question 5 :In addition to your role in BMSS ,could you light on your other engagements in the medical field or related areas?

Answer:

Certainly! Alongside my involvement in the Bangladesh Medical Students Society (BMSS), I have been actively engaged in various other activities within the medical field and related areas. These experiences have played a significant role in further developing my skills and expertise.

Firstly, I have participated in numerous medical research projects focusing on diverse subjects such as cardiovascular health, public health policies, and infectious diseases. These research initiatives allowed me to contribute to the body of knowledge in the medical field and understand the intricacies of conducting scientific studies.

Additionally, I have volunteered extensively with local healthcare organizations and charity initiatives. This involvement has given me invaluable opportunities to serve underprivileged communities and provide medical assistance to those in need. Not only did I gain hands-on experience in healthcare delivery, but I also witnessed the importance of compassion and empathy in patient care.

Moreover, I have attended various workshops and conferences, both nationally and internationally, where I interacted with medical professionals and researchers from different disciplines. These events broadened my understanding of the latest advancements in the medical industry and provided a platform for networking and knowledge exchange.

Furthermore, I have actively volunteered as a mentor and  tutor for junior medical students, facilitating their academic growth and personal development. I strongly believe in the power of mentorship and its impact on shaping future healthcare leaders. By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I aim to inspire and guide aspiring medical professionals.

During my tenure as the IFMSA Capacity Building Regional Assistant for the Asia Pacific region in the term 2021-2022, I had the opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of medical students in the region. I worked closely with the IFMSA team to design and implement capacity building projects and initiatives, focusing on enhancing the knowledge, skills, and competencies of medical students across the Asia Pacific countries. Through training sessions, workshops, and mentorship programs, we aimed to empower medical students to excel both academically and professionally.

After that I became the Capacity Building Development Assistant for IFMSA in the term 2022-2023, I had the privilege of leading and coordinating capacity building projects on a global scale. I worked closely with the IFMSA leadership team and regional assistants to identify areas of improvement and develop targeted programs. Together, we designed and implemented various training initiatives, focusing on leadership development, advocacy skills. Through these efforts, we aimed to empower medical students to become change-makers in their communities and contribute to the advancement of global healthcare.

At present as the Vice President of Capacity Building for IFMSA, my main responsibility was to oversee and support the capacity building initiatives of IFMSA on a global scale. I worked closely with the capacity building team, regional assistants, and national member organizations to develop and implement innovative and impactful projects. My vision for this role was to create a dynamic and inclusive platform for medical students to enhance their skills, acquire new knowledge, and engage in meaningful advocacy efforts. I aimed to foster collaboration among individuals and organizations, promoting a culture of learning and continuous development within the IFMSA community.

Also as  the Chair of Incision Bangladesh, I led an enthusiastic team of medical students and professionals dedicated to improving surgical care. My role involved overseeing the planning, implementation, and evaluation of various educational and outreach programs aimed at raising awareness about surgical safety and access to quality surgical services within Bangladesh.

Being the Advocacy Director of Incision Global, I worked closely with international teams and stakeholders to advocate for improved surgical care standards worldwide. I led campaigns, collaborated with key partners, and engaged in policy dialogue to address the barriers and challenges faced by communities in accessing safe and affordable surgical care.

Lastly, I have been involved in organizing medical camps and health awareness campaigns in rural areas, targeting common health issues such as sanitation, hygiene, and disease prevention. These initiatives have allowed me to bridge the gap between medical education and community outreach, making a positive impact on the lives of those who lack access to essential healthcare services.

Overall, my engagements beyond the Bangladesh Medical Students Society demonstrate my commitment to continuous learning, engagement in diverse medical projects, and active involvement in serving my community. Through these experiences, I seek to contribute to the betterment of the medical field, both locally and globally.

Question 6 :Can you describe some of the strategies that BMSS has implemented to address healthcare challenges in Bangladesh & how do medical students & professionals actively participate in these initiatives?

Answer:

At BMSS (Bangladesh Medical Students’ Society), we have implemented several strategies to address healthcare challenges in Bangladesh. These initiatives aim to improve healthcare access, quality, and outreach throughout the country. Additionally, we actively encourage medical students and professionals to actively participate in these initiatives to create a positive impact. Here are some strategies and examples:

Awareness Campaigns: BMSS organizes awareness campaigns on various health issues, such as hygiene, immunization, reproductive health, and mental health. These campaigns are conducted in collaboration with health professionals and institutions to educate the public and bring about behavior change.

Health Camps: We organize health camps in rural areas and underserved communities, providing free medical consultations, essential medicines, and preventive care. Medical students actively participate in these camps under the supervision of experienced professionals, gaining practical experience while benefiting the community.

Health Education: BMSS emphasizes health education among the general population as well as medical students. We conduct workshops, seminars, and training programs to enhance medical students’ knowledge and skills, preparing them to be future healthcare leaders.

Research and Advocacy: BMSS promotes medical research and encourages students to engage in evidence-based practices. By conducting research studies and publishing findings, we aim to contribute to the existing knowledge and influence healthcare policies and practices.

Collaboration with NGOs and Government: BMSS actively collaborates with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and government entities to address healthcare challenges. We work alongside these organizations in campaigns, projects, and initiatives, leveraging resources and reaching a broader audience.

In these strategies, medical students and professionals play a vital role. They actively participate in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of these initiatives. They contribute their knowledge, skills, and passion to address healthcare challenges effectively.

Medical students participate in awareness campaigns by organizing health talks, creating informative materials, and delivering educational sessions in schools, colleges, and communities. They actively engage with patients during health camps, conduct screenings, provide initial care, and follow-up with appropriate referrals. Medical students also contribute to research projects, data collection, and analysis, helping to generate evidence for evidence-based healthcare practices.

Furthermore, BMSS encourages medical students to actively engage in volunteer work and community service, fostering a sense of responsibility and compassion towards the community they serve. This involvement helps students gain valuable experience, develop leadership skills, and cultivate a sense of empathy and professionalism.

Overall, BMSS strives to create a collaborative environment that empowers medical students and professionals to drive change positively. Through various strategic initiatives, we aim to address healthcare challenges, improve quality of care, and make a lasting impact on the healthcare system in Bangladesh.