Media Release
Ajman, Sep 28: Around 177 students from over 67 countries entered the portals of Gulf Medical University, Ajman during the White Coat Ceremony held on the September 26. They were initiated into the profession by the chief guest professor Tan Sri Dato’ seri Dr HJ Mohd Ismail Merican, pro-chancellor and chairman, MAHSA University College, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Professor Gita Ashok Raj, provost of the Gulf Medical University delivered the welcome address to Thumbay Moideen-founder president, chairman-board of governors, GMU, Akbar Moideen, director – operations healthcare and retail, Thumbay Group, guest of honor Abdul Salam, CEO of BA Group, Thumbay-India, important dignitaries, deans, professors, faculty of respective colleges of GMU, staff members, parents of the students initiated into healthcare profession.
In her remarks she emphasized on the importance of professional standards and ethics that are expected of students from the very beginning of their career.
Addressing the students on the important occasion the chief guest Professor Merican highlighted on the students about the beginning of their medical education and training as a physician. He added that regardless of their path, they have worked hard and their presence during the event signifiedtheir great accomplishment.
He also emphasized that the purpose of the ceremony was to create a psychological contract for professionalism and empathy in the practice of medicine from the very start of medical training.
He strongly advocated the students to be fair to themself, to their patients, to their peers, and to their profession.
“I congratulate you on your accomplishment. Without having achieved tremendous success, you wouldn’t be here today. But remember that you have many more opportunities for success ahead. These coats are a symbol of medicine. When you wear them, others will expect a certain level of knowledge, expertise, care and compassion,” added professor Merican.
Professor Gita Ashok Raj administered GMU honour code followed by the White Coat conferral to the students.
The White Coat Ceremony, a highlight of the orientation process, signifies the student’s commitment to the healthcare profession and its responsibilities and obligations. New students cloaked in their first white coats, collectively recited the GMU honor code. They assumed the mantle of their profession in a meaningful ritual before an audience of mentors, family and friends. The ceremony was designed to impress upon the first-year students, the significance and symbolism of the white coat.
As a gesture of goodwill Thumbay Moideen honored chief guest Professor Merican by presenting a special memento.