Unified National Conference of Iraqi Dental Colleges 2023 , UNC-IDC
The Unified National Conference for Dental Colleges in Iraq 2023 is a significant event organized to enhance education in the field of dentistry and develop the skills of both students and practitioners in line with global developments. The conference was held over two days, on December 8th and 9th, 2023, at the Celebrations Square in Baghdad. The event saw the attendance of over 2,500 individuals, including prominent academic and professional figures from various dental colleges in Iraq, along with extensive participation from international experts in the field. The State of Palestine was honored as the guest of honor for this event 🇵🇸.
Opening of the Conference:
The conference was inaugurated in a formal atmosphere, with Dr. Naeem Abdul Yasser Al-Aboudi, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, attending along with other prominent figures from the Iraqi academic community. In his opening speech, Dr. Al-Aboudi emphasized the Iraqi government’s commitment to advancing medical education, especially in the field of dentistry, highlighting the importance of integrating technology and artificial intelligence into curricula. He also praised the significant role these technologies could play in improving the quality of education and scientific research in Iraq.
Deans in Attendance:
A distinguished group of deans from various Arab and international universities attended the conference. They were honored by Dr. Naeem Al-Aboudi for their participation and contributions to the development of medical education. The honored deans included:
- Dr. Rashid, Dean of Kuwait University 🇰🇼
- Dr. Salem Bofnas, Dean of Ajman University (UAE) 🇦🇪
- Dr. Elham, Dean of Al-Quds University (Palestine) 🇵🇸
- Dr. Ahmed Al-Qudoumi, Dean of Aqaba University (Jordan) 🇯🇴
- Dr. Nikfora, Dean of Tehran University (Iran) 🇮🇷
- Dr. Khaldoun, Dean of Damascus University (Syria) 🇸🇾
- Dr. Ahmed Al-Jamal, Representative of the Dean of British University (Egypt) 🇪🇬
- Dr. Karina, Dean of Saint Joseph University (Beirut) 🇱🇧
- Dr. Nebras Al-Dahash, Representative of Libya 🇱🇾
- Dr. Mundher Al-Kadhimi, Kings College University (UK) 🇬🇧
- Dr. Adel Al-Ani, Medical Center in Dubai 🇦🇪
- Dr. Tara, Dean of American University of Sulaimani
- Dr. Bassam, Dean of Hawler University, Erbil
- Dr. Rajdar, Dean of Sulaimani University
- Dr. Bahar, Dean of Duhok University
Participating Universities:
University of Baghdad College of Dentistry
Al-Farahidi University College of Dentistry
Al-Mustansiriyah University College of Dentistry
The Iraqi University College of Dentistry
Al-Ameed University College of Dentistry
The National University of Science and Technology College of Dentistry
Ibn Sina University College of Dentistry
Al-Rafidain University College of Dentistry
Al-Mustaqbal University College of Dentistry
Al-Hadi University College College of Dentistry
Al-Zahawi University College College of Dentistry
Al-Kut University College College of Dentistry
Ahl Al-Bayt University College of Dentistry
King’s College London
Al-Hadba University College College of Dentistry
University of Damascus College of Dentistry
Ajman University College of Dentistry
University of Al-Kut College of Dentistry
Aqaba University of Political Sciences College of Dentistry
Al-Nahda University College of Dentistry
Saint Joseph University of Beirut College of Dentistry
About Conference:
The conference included several scientific sessions and lectures covering topics such as “The Impact of Digital Technology on Dental Education” and “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Diagnosis and Treatment.” Both international and local experts provided new insights on improving educational quality and developing students’ skills to meet growing market demands. The latest techniques in dental imaging, implant techniques, and new restorative materials were also reviewed.
sessions focused on scientific research and curriculum development. Research papers were presented on the latest innovations in dentistry, such as the use of 3D printing in designing dental prosthetics, new root canal treatment techniques, and dental implants. Discussion sessions were held on how to update medical education curricula to keep up with modern developments and meet international education standards.
Additionally, participants took part in interactive workshops aimed at enhancing practical training on using modern technologies, such as simulation programs and virtual reality, which have become integral to dental education. These workshops provided hands-on training on how to use these tools in educational and clinical settings.
Accompanying Exhibition:
There was a large accompanying exhibition with many companies specializing in dentistry. The exhibition featured the latest innovations in medical equipment and digital technologies, allowing attendees to interact with these technologies and explore their applications in education and clinical practices.
Conclusion
The conference concluded with a final session where the main recommendations from the conference were reviewed. These recommendations aimed to improve the quality of education in dental colleges in Iraq by enhancing curricula, developing practical training programs, and fostering international collaboration. The importance of establishing advanced research centers in dentistry in Iraq to support innovation and development in this field was also addressed.
At the closing ceremony, awards and certificates were distributed to outstanding participants in the conference, both in terms of scientific research and educational innovation. Companies participating in the accompanying exhibition were also honored, showcasing the latest dental tools and technologies, giving attendees the chance to explore these innovations.
Future Recommendations:
Among the conference’s recommendations was the need to enhance collaboration with global universities to improve educational quality and advance scientific research. Experts also emphasized the importance of adopting digital technology and artificial intelligence in curricula to prepare students for future challenges in dentistry.
Conference Aspirations:
Following the success of the conference in achieving its goals, organizers plan to hold the conference periodically, expanding its scope to include other countries in the region. There are also aspirations to incorporate more topics related to modern medical advancements, such as professional ethics and the ethical use of artificial intelligence in medical practices.
Conference Wrap-Up:
A closing statement was drafted reflecting the main recommendations made by the participants. The statement highlighted the importance of continuing to organize such events to enhance communication between academics and practitioners and to achieve continuous progress in medical education in Iraq.