UIMSA Health Week Day 3: Experts Chart New Course for AI in Healthcare, Medscion Magazine Relaunched
The University of Ibadan Medical Students’ Association (UIMSA) marked the third day of its 63rd Health Week on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, with a landmark symposium and the relaunch of its long-anticipated Medscion magazine. The event, held at the B. Osuntokun Lecture Theatre, University College Hospital (UCH), focused on the theme “Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: A New Era of Diagnosis and Treatment.”
UIMSA President Inioluwa John opened the session, highlighting major technological advancements in healthcare, from X-rays to MRIs and how Artificial Intelligence (AI) now enhances diagnostic accuracy across these modalities. He concluded by emphasizing the progress of the current UIMSA executive council.
The keynote address was delivered on behalf of Professor Babatunde Lawal Salako, Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, by Dr. Raheem Raji, a consultant nephrologist at UCH. The address traced the evolution of medical education in Nigeria, the roles of MDCN and NUC, and the contemporary challenges facing the sector. Prof. Salako underscored the need to integrate technology and patient-centred care into medical training, outlining seven critical areas for intervention: culture and environment, educational governance, support for learners and educators, digital curricula, mentorship and research, and resource allocation.
Professor Adegoke G. Falade, retired professor of paediatrics, served as the father of the day. His remarks were followed by a speech from the Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, represented by Dr. Olukayode Obikunle, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry. Her address, titled “Telemedicine Bridging the Gap in Healthcare Access,” highlighted government efforts in leveraging technology to expand healthcare reach. She encouraged future medical professionals to lead innovation and localize technological solutions.
The long-awaited launch of Medscion magazine followed. Folusho Olu-Adegbola, past Editor-in-Chief and UIMSA General Secretary, noted the last edition was published in 2019. He expressed appreciation to all editorial contributors. The current Managing Editor, John Eriomala, introduced the 10th edition, aptly titled Vagus—drawing a parallel between the wandering 10th cranial nerve and the diverse intersections of medicine with education, politics, sports, and technology. A fundraising session for the magazine was held, with pledges to be announced subsequently.
The event culminated in a panel session moderated by Miracle Abraham. Panelists included Professor Owolabi Mayowa (HOD, Neurology, UCH), Dr. Olumuyiwa Kolade (Consultant, Nuclear Medicine, UCH), Dr. Omiye Jesutofunmi (Stanford Dermatology Resident), Dr. Taofeeq Togunwa (Physician-Scientist, Duke Global Neurology and Neurosurgery), and Dr. Obikunle. Discussions centred on how medical students can embrace and integrate technological advancements into their future practice.
The event wrapped up at 2:30 pm with the presentation of award plaques to distinguished guests. The compère was Victor Mong, a 600-level medical student.
Sidiq Moshood.
