On Thursday 13 July, 22 students at Queen Mary University of London’s Malta campus graduated from the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme at the Cittadella in Gozo.
The graduation ceremony was attended by students and their loved ones, Queen Mary staff including Professor Sir Mark Caulfield, the Vice Principal for Health at the university, and the President, George Vella.
Of the 22 students graduating on the day, Ehsan Gauher gave a speech at the ceremony.
Ehsan said said:
“While we are all aware that Medicine is considered one of the most challenging degrees, to undertake the degree in a new country, new environment, new medical school and during a global pandemic, on top of the everything else, is some achievement. So everyone should be extremely proud of their efforts to be here today. “As a small but diverse cohort, we have been through a lot together and seen significant change during our time here. There have been a lot of uphill challenges - quite literally, as the hill walking up to the university is no joke. But we have faced challenges head on and with the desire to get on with things with minimal fuss. We have all contributed individually and collectively I believe we have helped shape what the medical school is today.”
“While we are all aware that Medicine is considered one of the most challenging degrees, to undertake the degree in a new country, new environment, new medical school and during a global pandemic, on top of the everything else, is some achievement. So everyone should be extremely proud of their efforts to be here today.
“As a small but diverse cohort, we have been through a lot together and seen significant change during our time here. There have been a lot of uphill challenges - quite literally, as the hill walking up to the university is no joke. But we have faced challenges head on and with the desire to get on with things with minimal fuss. We have all contributed individually and collectively I believe we have helped shape what the medical school is today.”
Queen Mary University’s Malta campus is the first and only medical school located on the island of Gozo – situated on the grounds of Gozo General Hospital. It supports Malta’s Governmental aim of upgrading healthcare infrastructure across Malta, and at the same time forms part of Queen Mary’s plans to develop a university-level education hub on the island.
This is the second class to graduate from the MBBS programme. Last year 19 students graduated – 18 are in their foundation year as medics across the globe, and one student continued their studies at university and will be doing their foundation year next year.
The MBBS programme is now in its sixth year on the Maltese islands. It continues to attract students from around the world – who want to enjoy a London curriculum with a Mediterranean lifestyle. There are currently 250 students enrolled at the campus – who come from almost 50 countries from across the globe.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Professor Sir Mark Caulfield from Queen Mary University said:
“I want to extend my heart felt congratulations to all those graduating today. Medicine is a challenging degree and so this achievement today is truly impressive! You are the second cohort to graduate from our medical school in Malta, and I am excited to see what you will go on to do. I would like to thank the people of Malta for their generous help in training our newest doctors.”
Prime Minister of Malta Dr Robert Abela reiterated the Government’s commitment to continue fostering an environment that encourages excellence and innovation in a statement about the graduation.
“It is this spirit of empowerment, growth, and ambition that I see radiating from Queen Mary University. The 22 of you receiving your Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery today, symbolise the strengthening of the education and health sector, which together hold the promise of better and healthier lives for our citizens.”
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