GMU’s commitment to Community Engagement and Social Accountability
“Thank you, Gulf Medical University and Thumbay University Hospital for taking care of our wellness, we appreciate your kind gesture!”, said one of the workers of the Emirates Security Camp, Ajman choked with emotion. This sentiment summarizes the impact of a Health Promotion campaign conducted on February 8, 2023 by the medical, dental and public health program students and interns as part of our community engagement activity, supported by Thumbay University Hospital, Ajman.
The event supervised by faculty and doctors, involved medical and public health students recording height, weight, blood pressure and BMI, and dental interns performing a dental checkup. The nurses on site measured the workers’ blood sugar levels followed by free consultation by a licensed GP. Those requiring further consultation after this preliminary screening were referred to the JCI accredited Thumbay University Hospital for further follow-up.
“Such volunteering events can make a real difference to the lives of people and organizations in need. Dedicating our time for community engagement and social work boosts our self-confidence and self-esteem, and gives us life satisfaction. A great way to make new acquaintances, expand our network, and boost our social skills”, said a student from the MPH program visibly feeling accomplished.
“The campaign was an eye opener. We learnt how to communicate with patients despite language barriers. As the future doctor and healthcare provider, we understood the necessity to have better communication skills. The campaign was excellent and we would love to participate in many such future screening campaigns”, echoed the medical and dental students who participated in the event.
“Community Engagement and Social Accountability is an integral part of GMU’s vision and mission, and I believe that the University should serve the immediate community in which it exists”, reflected Prof. Manda Venkatramana, Vice Chancellor Academics and Dean, College of Medicine, who is also the Chairman of the Community Engagement Committee of Gulf Medical University.