Professor Dr. Ameen Abdul-Hassan Manea Al-Alwany, Dean of the College of Medicine at the University of Baghdad, chaired an expanded meeting of the Curriculum Committee, attended by representatives of the College’s academic departments. The meeting focused on mechanisms for comprehensive academic development and on enhancing the educational and practical skills framework for the College’s students.
The meeting commenced with a discussion of the current status of educational laboratories in both the basic sciences and clinical phases. A detailed review was conducted of laboratory requirements, technical equipment, and mechanisms for storing materials and supplies to ensure operational efficiency, resource sustainability, and the quality of practical performance. The Dean emphasized the importance of continuously modernizing the laboratories and integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application in order to enhance learning outcomes and improve the quality of training.
The meeting also addressed the continuous development of the curriculum, particularly the revision of course content for the clinical phase in accordance with the requirements of contemporary medical education. This included strengthening integration among academic departments and reinforcing the principles of competency-based education. The Committee reviewed a phased plan for clinical skills education extending from the first year through graduation, based on an approved skills-development framework designed to ensure the progressive acquisition and integration of competencies throughout the different stages of study.
Emphasis was also placed on the role of the Skills Committee and the Skills Laboratory in systematically and effectively developing students’ competencies. Flexible training mechanisms are to be adopted to facilitate the implementation of training programmes during the summer vacation, thereby expanding opportunities for practical experience and repeated practice without being restricted by a rigid timetable. This approach is intended to promote continuity of learning and the progressive accumulation of practical experience.
The participants stressed that skills training should begin from the first year by establishing essential practical competencies, including injection techniques, intravenous fluid administration, and intravenous cannulation. This foundation should subsequently progress toward developing students’ abilities in scientific research and academic writing at an early stage, thereby preparing them for a rigorous academic and research pathway consistent with quality and accreditation standards.
The meeting also discussed mechanisms for organizing field-based academic visits for students to relevant healthcare and educational institutions. Such visits are intended to enhance practical experience and familiarize students with the realities of medical practice from the early years of their education.
In the same context, the importance of the Communication Skills Committee was emphasized in preparing students to communicate effectively with patients, their families, and colleagues. This reflects the principle that successful medical practice depends on the integration of scientific competence with essential interpersonal and humanistic skills.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Dean affirmed that the College of Medicine at the University of Baghdad is continuing to implement an integrated development plan based on the modernization of laboratories, curriculum enhancement, and the advancement of skills-based education. These efforts aim to strengthen the College’s academic standing and ensure alignment with contemporary trends in medical education.
