The College of Dentistry (CoD), Gulf Medical University, hosted its Orientation Program for the Year 1 BDS students on 30th August 2025. The program commenced with a warm reception for students and their families, creating an engaging start to their academic journey.
The event opened with an inspiring welcome address by respected Prof. Hesham Marei, Vice Chancellor Academics and Dean, CoD, motivating students to embrace the opportunities and responsibilities that lie ahead in their professional training. Prof. Walid Elsayed, Associate Dean, CoD emphasized the significance of interprofessional education and highlighted the role of the academic continuum in shaping competent healthcare professionals.
Dr. Heba Abdelaal, Director of the Student Happiness Center, Mentorship, and Academic Advising Program, introduced initiatives such as the Student Happiness Center (SHC), the structured mentorship framework, and peer tutoring opportunities designed to support student wellbeing and academic success.
As Year 1 Coordinator, Dr. Pooja Adtani outlined the university’s rules, regulations, and code of conduct. This was followed by a briefing from Mr. Aslam Kutty, Registrar, GMU, who provided guidance on essential academic and administrative procedures to ease the students’ transition into university life. Mr. Suraj Sebastian, E-Learning and IT Manager, introduced the university’s e-learning platforms, including Moodle and Folio 360. Prof. Dixon Thomas, Head of the Learning Resource Committee, GMU guided students on accessing academic resources such as ClinicalKey, OpenEvidence, and other subscribed databases, along with an overview of library rules.
Ms. Lisa Kaminzada, Executive, Student Affairs Department, GMU further familiarized students with the vibrant opportunities on campus, including student clubs, student-led events, the wellbeing centre, and a dedicated sit-out zone for food enthusiasts.
The event was facilitated by Dr. Jovita D’souza, Lecturer and Specialist in Periodontics, and concluded with a tour of the college and hospital facilities led by Dr. Vaishnavi Mohan and Dr. Noura Teyah, Clinical Instructors, CoD offering students a glimpse into their new academic environment.