August 2019
Issue 2, October 2019
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Quarterly e- Newsletter of AKMG Emirates (Affiliated to IBPC, Sharjah)
Editorial
This quarter went by in a blur- a gorgeous, fun-filled, warm blur nevertheless. The past couple of months saw UAE shooting for the stars with Hazza Al Mansouri ; While the expat community of Keralites invited the stars down with our enviable Onam celebrations.
I find myself scrawling through Mansouri’s tweets and wondering if he caught a peek of UAE from space; and what he probably saw! Stunningly pretty Pookkalams? Kerala- saree clad beauties on Thaalappolies? Did the mouth-watering aroma of our tradi- tional Sadhya reach his spacecraft? Could he hear the thundering Chendamelam from the skies? Having thoroughly soaked
myself in everything Onam, I am once again awestruck at how this festivity brings out the best in us.
For this quarter wasn’t just merriments. From the badminton club and CME’s to the Onam celebrations, we admittedly had a merry quarter. But perhaps even more precious than the fun of it was how we spent a quarter celebrating our togeth- erness, reminiscing fond memories of home, trading Onam stories, creating new memories, teaching kids what it means to be a Malayali, and building a warmer home and a tighter community in this beautiful country like no other. If that isn’t ‘Strength- ening Our Bonds’, what is?
Happy New Quarter!
Dr. Jiby Rajan
Editor
Dr. Manoj P Mathews
Joint Editor
Dr. Ajay Pillai
WEB Editor
An Initiative by
Only for private circulation among members
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In This Issue
President’s Message............................................................. 03 Secretary General’s Message.............................................. 03 Treasurer’s Message.............................................................. 04 Achievements & Recognitions........................................... 04 Central Working Committee............................................... 05 Badminton Club.................................................................... 05 Junior Talents Day.................................................................. 06 Kenya Trip............................................................................... 07 What’s Happening in Region 1 to 6 ............................... 08-19
Oct 31st - 1st November Ajman University
August 2019
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Message
Dr. George Jacob. A
President
AKMG Emirates (2019-2021)
Dear AKMG family Members,
After the 1st Newsletter was brought out by the end of July, we had the second CWC meeting on 20 Sep- tember in which the Green Book was handed over to the members. AKMG Badminton Club games took place in September and the Onam Celebra- tions of Regions 6,4,7 & 2 were cel- ebrated in September and October. AKMG tour to Kenya was in the last week of August. CME/CDE of Region 6 was held in September. These were the activities of the last 3 months.
On November 15th we have the AKMG Junior Talents Day 2019 at Ajman University. This will be an oc-
Dear AKMG Friends,
Warm greetings from the Secre- tary-General! It was again a very zestful quarter, August 2019 to Oc- tober 2019 for AKMG Emirates.
The directory committee activi- ties led by the convenor; Dr. Alex Abraham was in full swing which resulted in collecting the directo- ry data of almost all the members. The proof corrections from the re- gions is being done, and the office bearers and members are doing their best to secure the resources to print the directory. The mem- bership committee and AKMG tour committee is active under the leadership of its convenor, Dr. George Joseph, President-Elect. AKMG Emirates Badminton club conducted the second edition of friendly matches under the leader- ship of the Vice-President Dr. Satish Kumar on September 13th at En- gage Sports Academy, Dubai. The second CWC of the term was con-
casion for all the members to gather to- gether with their families. We hope this opportunity will help untap into the hidden talents of our children.
Dr. Alex Abraham and all the Regional Conveners have put in tremendous ef- fort to collect data of more than 1100 members for the AKMG Directory. The sponsorship drive for this is going on full swing.
Hope this newsletter illuminates our activities in the last quarter. Let’s keep this up and strengthen our bonds even further!
ducted on September 20th hosted by region 6, at Ras Al Khaimah.
The Regions conducted Onam cel- ebrations in line with the President’s theme “Strengthening our Bonds” which was well attended by the mem- bers of the central executive, regional office bearers from various regions, and the members. The President’s theme 2019-2021 “Strengthening our bonds” which is intended to im- prove the friendship and camaraderie among the members have created a very positive impact. The President and team made the official visit to Region 1 on October 4th. The interac- tive sessions between the president’s team and the executive members helped in bridging the gaps and im- proving the communication between the regional office bearers and central office-bearers. This was followed by a well-attended and cheerful family get-together.
CMEs were conducted in Regions 2,4,5, and 6 which were well attend-
Message
Dr. Sughu Malayil Koshy
Secretary General AKMG Emirates (2019-2021)
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ed, with good academic content. This
was appreciated by the delegates, speakers and guests. The regional ac- tivities are in full swing with the re- gions conducting many literary and social activities.
Variety of activities are being planned in the next quarter. A literary day is being organised for our children on November 15th, 2019 at Ajman Uni- versity to commemorate the Chil-
dren’s Day. Literary competitions for different grade categories are being planned. The guidelines for the com- petition which was compiled by the literary committee under the lead- ership of the convenor Dr. Nirmala Raghunathan and co-convenors Dr. Jiby Rajan and Dr. Bindu Suresh, have already been sent to the members. The directory which is the data hand- book of our members is expected to be released on November 15th which
Dear Friends,
Greetings from the AKMG Emirates!
We have had an eventful quarter with the President’s Region Visits and the various activities.
The 1st CWC and the training session to the new office bearers of the 2019 – 2021 went off well. As a Treasurer, I have managed to give enough insight into the financial handling by all emir- ates.
Financial discipline and transparency have been the key force in the success of our Organization. 2003 was the year of the launch of AKMG under the pa- tronage of Dr. Azad Moopen and a few members whose determination has brought AKMG Emirates to celebrate its 16th year of existence, having over-
August 2019
requires combined efforts to secure re- sources.
Let me thank and appreciate the sincere efforts of Dr. Jiby Rajan, Editor, and the Editorial Committee of AKMG Emirates for the second edition of the newsletter.
Looking forward to the wholeheart- ed cooperation and support of all our members and office-bearers.
come tough situations with strong will power.
Our President’s theme for the current quarter “Strengthening our Bonds” has been imbibed in all our activities and aligns well with the previous theme “Our Health Our Wealth”. Once again, AKMG successfully attests that we are strongest together!
CME’s, Cultural, Inter-Emirate Individual Sports events like Badminton club should be conducted by each Emirate with mixed bag participation. Our 1400 odd members, spouses and kids are enough to make any activity successful and rest assured, all members can see a difference in routine life.
I wish AKMG and Medecon all the very best and hope to see all members in ac- tive participation to future events.
Message
Dr. Feroz M A Gaffoor
Treasurer
AKMG Emirates (2019-2021)
ACHIEVEMENTS & RECOGNITIONS
Dr. Azad Moopen conferred the coveted Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians of UK. This is in recognition of establishing a private healthcare system with focus in academic activities.
It caters to 150+ PG students with 20 DNB courses, and the medical college has over 3000 doctor colleagues working in the Group.
August 2019
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The Central Working Committee meeting was held on September 20, 2019 and was hosted by Region 6 at RAK Hotel, Ras AL Khaimah. The event was well attended with representations from all the regions. The main highlight of this meeting was the spirit of celebration as the CWC mem- bers wore traditional attires.
The presidential address by Dr. George Jacob elaborated on the events that took place in the previous quarter which was followed by the reading of the minutes, finance reports, directory updates, spon- sorship developments, CME updates and such by the respective representatives. The printed version of the Green book was also released and handed over to Dr.
AKMG BADMINTON CLUB
Nazeer Ahmed Regional Chair Region 4 by Dr. M M Nazer, Board of Trustees. Once the meeting was adjourned, the Onam celebrations of Region 6 commenced.
The event received great appreciation from the president and CWC for the ac- tive participation and excellent conduct of the event.
CENTRAL WORKING COMMITTEE
AKMG Emirates Badminton club conducted the second edition of friendly matches at Engage Sports Academy, Dubai on September 13, 2019. The event saw active participation from the various regions. The men’s title was bagged by Dr. P.G Jacob – Dr. Manoj Mathew team and the team of Dr. Lizy Josson - Mrs. Magie George were the winners of the women’s title. The next edition will be announced soon. Will keep you updated so that more members can join!
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August 2019
The activities that are the easiest, cheapest, and most fun to do – such as singing, playing games, reading, storytelling, and just talking and listen- ing – are also the best for child development.” ~ Jerome Singer
Friends,
As you all know, the AKMG Junior Talents Day is scheduled on 15th November 2019. This day has been aptly chosen, as it coincides with the Children’s day. The venue has been changed to the Sheikh Zayed Conference & Exhibition Center in Ajman University.
Lots of literary activities have been ar- ranged for children as you all must be aware. There will be a Zumba challenge for all who dare. Arrangements have also been made for stalls, which can be manned by AKMG members, to display and sell art & craft, and snacks. Regions could also set up indoor games that could engage the children and parents
Dr. Jamaludeen Abubacker K.
General Convenor AKMG Junior Talents Day 2019
who come for the meet. We are also en- couraging regions to come up with short entertainment activities like songs, instru- mental music or short plays that could be enacted on stage.
Although the last date for registration, was the 25th of October, we have extend- ed the date further to 8th November, as the registrations have been poor.
You can’t all be having an Onam hang- over now. How else would one explain this slumber to register for the first major event of this quarter!! Children are not the only ones targetted for this event. We should also remember that we were chil-
dren once and that we still have a child in us. This is a good oppurtunity to let that child in you have fun.
So, please.....I urge you all to let your hair down, come over to Ajman, have pure unadulterated fun and enjoy alongside the children. Make the most of this op- purtunity to de-stress, meet old friends and new and have a good time as one big AKMG family.
Let our children, learn a thing or two about life and friendship from us.
Enough said......See you on the 15th!
August 2019
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MASAI MARA trip during the migration was a wish I was nurturing for some time, especially after seeing some of the awesome footage shot by my peers – few of whom have made it a yearly pilgrimage!
This trip was from 27th August – 31st August 2019 organized by Hudson & Parker and the group included many good friends from AKMG family. Af- ter an early Kenya Airways- flight from Dubai international Airport we began a long drive from Nairobi to Naivasha
Mara Simba Lodge had excellent rooms in cottage like settings, plenty of birds harping away to glory but very few animals to look out for. During the eve- ning game drive we had the first taste of MARA with its weather variations and array of animals including Lions, Zebras, Elephants, Cheetah, Wild buffa- los, Giraffe, Hyena to name a few. The last bit of our evening adventure was in pouring rain through which we could view the magnificent Mara sunset with its unique color scheme of the clouds.
Dr. Sunny Kurian
Past President AKMG Emirates
through the legendary Rift valley. We stayed at Naivasha Sim- ba Lodge on the bank of Lake Naivasha during the first night and we had sighting of Hippos, Zebras, Monkeys and a pleth- ora of water birds. In addition to this I took a private tour to Lake Elementatia to see the resident flock of flamingos which was a truly magnificent sight.
Early next day, 28th August soon after breakfast, we embarked on the long drive to MASAI MARA National Park. From my previous experience of the 7 hours journey, I had braced myself to get my spine realigned during the road trip. But, surprisingly, the roads were improved to a remarkable ex- tent,-that only the last hour or so of the journey was anything like old times. Even the dust was less!
We reached MARA by afternoon and were checked into an appropriately located hotel overlooking a waterhole.
Pair of Eland Deer
Kenya Masai Mara
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August 2019
Wildebeest migrate
On day 3, 29th August we left early after a 5.30 am breakfast and packed lunch, to be in time to watch the migration. Along the route we saw a multitude of Zebras and Elephants making their way to the waterhole. Also eager Hyenas searching for left- overs. The horizon on the route greeted the rising sun with scores of colorful balloons taking guests for a view. The drive of approximately 2 hours took us to the MARA River crossing where we saw two groups jostling with each oth- er for space - Multitudes of wildebeest trying to cross the river and hordes of vehicles plying for vantage spots. It was an interesting interplay between man and beasts, though for entirely different reasons!
Though not as spectaculars as I had imagined (probably due to early monsoon) the migration of the Wildebeest as they crossed was a site to behold none the less. We did see a tiger trying to catch his prey in the con-
fusion but saw no crocodiles in ac- tion as the water may have been too shallow (may be next visit I will time the itinerary suitably). Our drives in the MARA brought us in close quar- ters with the animal life of the open jungle – being unfettered and living examples of the art of survival.
The trip brought us AKMG- ites together especially during meal time because the tight schedule left time for very little else. The accom- modation, food and general trans- portation were well arranged and Ms Atoosa was particularly vigilant to at- tend to needs of each guest. Hudson & Parker to be fair, did a decent job without major glitches.
On the flight back I was al- ready contemplating my next MARA trip – probably during March – April a few years from now. That’s MARA for you – Never enough, always beckon- ing.
Lioness on the lookout
A prancing wildebeest A prancing wildebeest
Oxpeckers at work on the Hippo
Hyena play
Bee eater at work
August 2019
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Yet another quarter whisked by creating history in Region 1. Excitement is always round the corner in Abu Dhabi, be it any time of the year.
International community school in Abu Dhabi witnessed our active family gath- ering for the badminton league on Friday 2nd September from 10 am to 5 pm. It was a fun-filled kids and parent’s day out.
5 badminton teams (Kollam Green Smash- ers, Thrissur Yellow Rockets, Kochi Orange Warriors, Kannur Red Hunters, Trivandrum Black Hawks & Calicut Blue Heroes) un- der the leadership of Dr. Shibu Varghese our Sports Coordinator showcased thrill- ing but friendly matches. Energy packed children were equally excited to have a court for themselves. The day ended on
a positive note of healthy bonding and discovery of new skilled players. Mission accomplished...
On October 4 2019, the AKMG President along with dignitaries of other regions were welcomed at Country Club during the family meet ONNANU NAMMAL. After the meet and greet, the committee dis- cussed programs for the rest of the term. The book Club under the leadership of Dr. Joe Paul was officially inaugurated by Dr. George Jacob.
“Onnanu Nammal” - The highlight of the evening was a skit coordinated by Dr. Sa- jith P.S. It was interlaced by a super dance by our little ones and a peppy number by older kids followed by our teens rocking the stage. Our beautiful ladies walked the ramp with poise and grace. A classy cou- ple dance brought an end to it.
As usual, the day ended with a sumptu- ous dinner and the much-awaited DJ.
Around 260 people graced the wonderful evening.
Region 1
What’s happening in
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August 2019
Our upcoming CME titled “Diabetes update: A Multi-Specialty Perspective” is scheduled for 8th November 2019 and has obtained accreditation for 7 credit hours from DOH, Abu Dhabi.
We are continuing with our weekly sessions of volleyball, throwball and badminton practices.
Our book club officially changes to “Page Turners” on November 8, 2019, with a book discussion. Members are reading the title
“The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Mark Haddon to share their literary views and thoughts on it at the gathering on November 8th.
The quarterly report of “WE CARE @ R1” was submitted by Dr. Indira Gouthaman. It was heartening to hear from our local liaison in Trissur that all the 30 beneficia- ry children in our program are receiving their monthly allowance of INR 1000/- from the 30 Region 1 donors. This pro- gram was started in 2015, involving 20
beneficiary children with chronic ailments in Kerala and 20 Region 1 donors. In 2017 it was expanded to 30 beneficiaries and 30 donors and currently is on its 3rd cycle. With the current donation, this cycle will last until May 2020, when a fresh donation from Re- gion 1 donors will become due.
A decision of giving away an equivalent of 10 percent of our expenses incurred in any event held in Region 1, to charity, was de- cided by the Region 1 executive committee.
August 2019
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Region 2
This Quarter went by in a frenzy of activities- Onam celebration, and CME. Our Onam cel- ebration, “Onamadhuram Ormamadhuram” and the countless discussions that the entire region enthusiastically joined in to plan, practice, and flawlessly execute takes the cake for this quarter.
Enhancing the moniker (thanks to Dr. Biji Rajan, Region 6 for the suggestion), our Onam celebration was a nod to everything the festival stands for- family, togetherness, joy, and home! From countless late-night practices for the event, munching on home-made snacks that Dr. Shanaz Salim brought over, sorting flowers for Pookkalam, and trading payasam recipes, to creating the Maveli Vs Sugunan skit, preparing for the celebration created tons of fond memories for the members. Especially to be commented is the fact that everyone, young and old, joined hands to pull off this event. From children compering “Onamadhu- ram Ormamadhuram” to the elderly who graciously baby-sat kids while their parents were practicing Thiruvathira, everyone pitched in.
“Onamadhuram Ormamadhuram” was held at Pearl Hotel, UAQ on October 11, 2019. Among the many competitions, games, and cultural activities held, Punchirimalsaram, Paayasamalsaram, and Malayali Manka & Purusha Kesari competition were particularly well-received. Little misses, Ms. Naval and Ms. Suzanna won the titles and hearts for the most adorable smiles. Dr. Jiby Rajan, and Dr. Vinith Zachariah John were the couple to win Malayali Manka & Purusha Kesari titles. Paayasamalsaram turned out to be a palate-teaser with Mrs. Nazrath Banu , Mrs. Fathima Basheer and Dr. Mohamed Sageer bagging the first , second and third prizes respectively for their uniquely amazing creations.
The day offered a treat to all the senses with a lip-smacking Onasadhya and the Chen- damelam that kept everyone on their toes. Our very own Maveli, Dr. Jamaludeen Abuback- er and his side-kick Sugunan enacted by Dr. Sughu Koshy were head-turners. Special mention goes to the spirited Thiruvathira with Men & Women eagerly joining in. Every
participant took home trophies and we were privileged with the active representation of Regional and Central members. It was a day to remember as there can’t be a event truer to the theme of ‘Strengthening our Bonds’.
The other highlight for this quarter, our CME titled ‘The Influence Of Lifestyle On Oral Health & Current Updates In Dentistry’ and ‘Maladies Of The Modern Age – A Medical Perspective’ is set to unfold on October 31, and Novem- ber 1 at Ajman University.
What’s happening in
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Region 3
The best part about this quarter was our Onam celebration held on September 18, 2019. The much-anticipated event was conducted at Food World restaurant, Al Ain. AKMG Region 3 got together for an array of programs, starting with the ever-popular Thiruvathira. The members enjoyed the program with a variety of entertainments and fun-filled games, followed by a sumptuous dinner.
What’s happening in
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August 2019
The second executive committee meet- ing was held on September 4, 2019. We had decided to build four houses in Ker- ala as a part of flood relief activities. MOU was signed with a private company for the smooth conduction of the project and land purchased in Padinjarethara, in Wayanad district. Construction work will start soon after the paper works are pro- cessed.
YUDE ONAM was celebrated in a festive mood and was appreciated for the max- imum number of participation (more than 370) and was well attended by CWC members. Traditional floral arrangement pookalam was a splendid affair and the Onam cultural procession was also mag- nificent. Mahabali, Pulikkali, Thaalappoli, Singarimelam, and traditionally attired
Kerala ladies were all the features of Onam procession. Chendamelam on the stage was a treat to the audience. MEGA THIRU- VATHIRA conducted by the cultural com- mittee, first of its kind in AKMG, was un- doubtedly the jewel of the crown of the festival. Also, the brave attempt of Region 4 men to dance was lauded. Onam sadya was best in terms of taste and luxury and served for more than 370 people. Cultur- al events and various games, including Vadamvali thoroughly entertained the whole crowd.
Music club activities - On September 12th we conducted a karaoke night. It was a musical treat and it helped us to find out new talented singers and helped in strengthening our bonds. We plan to con- tinue the sessions once in three months.
Sports club - During July 7th sports meet- ing we decided to form clubs for each sport separately - Badminton, Volleyball, Cricket, Chess etc. We are looking forward to the two sessions of Badminton and Volleyball about to start by the end of this month.
Literary club- Two sessions of Madhuram Malayalam was held - first on July 5 and second on October 11. The sessions were handled efficiently by our own members. It was informative and entertaining for both children and adults.
Basic Life Support-We had two sessions of BLS, September 12 and October 11, 2019.
Onam celebration- Region 4 ORUMA-
Region 4
What’s happening in
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August 2019
Two main activities organized during this quarter in Region 5 were the Onam Sadya and the CME. There were two executive committee meetings and the main point of discussion was regarding the smooth conduct of the CME.
On October 5, Region 5 witnessed the Onam get-together of around 40 mem- bers for a sumptuous Onam Sadya. The gathering was hosted at Hotel Clifton, Fu- jairah. It was a great family get-together and everyone enjoyed their time togeth- er.
The CME, titled ‘Update in Medical Prac- tice’ was conducted on October 18, 2019, at Al-Badri Auditorium, Fujairah Hospital. It was conducted in association with As- ter Clinics with an overwhelming partic- ipation of 176 registrations. The meeting was accredited by MOHAP with 7.5 credit hours. All the lectures were relevant and enjoyed great participation. The CME was inaugurated by our honourable AKMG president Dr. George Jacob and nearly all the Central leaders attended. There was great representation from all the regions with the special mention of Region 6 - Ras AL Khaimah.
Region 5
What’s happening in
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Region 6 had got the opportunity to hold the first CME/ CDE program of the new term (2019-2021). Itwas the first time that our region was planning to conduct a 2 day program. The CME conveners and joint conveners worked tirelessly to arrange various aspects such as application to MOH, arranging the PPT presentations from the speakers, proof reading the talks to see that it complies with MOH regulations etc, etc and many meetings were held for this regard.
Our CME/CDE program was held on September 13/14 at RAKMHSU. It was a huge success in terms of number of delegates who attended the program, the quality of speakers and smooth functioning of the organizing team. It was also well attended by central and regional leaders. Our CME/CDE conveners – Dr. Shinod Varghese and Dr. Vivek Padmanabhan played a tremendous effort in organizing the scientific program.
Region 6 along with the Indian Relief committee(IRC) participated in the Indian independence day flag hoisting ceremony held at IRC on August 15.
Dr. Prem Kuriakose represented our region in the AKMG Emirates Badminton club first edition friendly match on July 12. Our region is extremely proud that Mrs. Majie George was able to participate in the second edition of the Badminton club held on 13/9/19 and her team was able to emerge victorious.
Region 6
What’s happening in
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August 2019
The 2nd CWC meeting was held in RAK on September 20 at RAK hotel. On the same day we had our regional Onam celebration. The entire program was well attended by central and regional leaders and their families. Games involving all
our AKMG members was organized by Dr. Anju Mary Thomas. Our maveli, Dr. Dominic Mathew entertained the crowd. Ladies thiruvathira was planned and organized by Dr. Anju Mary Thomas and Dr. Anjana S. Pillai. Our skit - Boat
Jettikkullil Bheekaran was conceived by Dr. Anoop JIns Jose and Dr. Biji Rajan and all members participated in the skit. This marked the end of a rather memorable quarter !
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Region 7
The second quarter of Region 7 was eventful with one executive meeting held on September 16 and three core meetings held at the Al Miqat Restaurant in Sharjah. Onam celebrations, CME & CDE, membership & directory activities and Kid’s Talents Day were the main topics of discussion. Diwali celebrations to be held on November 8 by the lady’s wing, aptly named “Dandiya Night”, also was part of the agenda.
Another major administrative activity to make it to the Quarterly report is the addition of two new members to R7, raising the total member count to 323. We whole-heartedly welcome Dr. Mohammad Shahid, Prosthodontist at Shiyas and Ifthikar Medical Centre and Dr. Parvathy Ashokan, Dental surgeon at Al Ahalia Regional Medical Centre.
The best part about this quarter was ‘Onathimirppu’, our Onam celebrations. Taking place on October 4 at Crown Palace Hotel, Ajman, the beautiful event was a melting pot of traditional festivities, from Thiruvathira, Chendamelam, Maveliezhunnallathu, Onathallu, Onappattukal, and Onasadhya to a handful of games that left the crowd amused.
Central and regional leaders and their family members actively participated in the function. Music and a Cooking competition held among members of Region 7 were true head-turners.
Moreover, our CME committee managed to earn 16 credit points from DHA and MOH for the upcoming two-day CME and CDE program to be held on 21st and 22nd November.
Dr. Mohammad Shahid
Dr. Parvathy Ashokan
What’s happening in
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August 2019
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November 15th 2019
Ajman University
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