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The IGCS and Nezhat Family Foundation Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery Training Program

The Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) Training Program offers an opportunity for surgeons specializing in gynecologic oncology to acquire advanced skills in laparoscopy. This six-month program is supported by the Nezhat Family Foundation. 

In many areas of the world, there is an unmet need for training and investment in surgical training, including minimally invasive techniques. This program aims to provide mentorship and training with practical and dynamic content, the latest technology, safe surgical approaches, and risk detection. This program bridges both theoretical and practical educational approaches, where trainees will utilize a combination of practical-based learning via periodic assessment and surgical cases, in tandem with completing coursework content with literature readings, lectures, and videos.

The first training program will be hosted by Başkent University Hospital in Ankara, Turkey, chosen for its exceptional facilities, faculty, and management structures.

Program Aims and Objectives

  • To train attendants in advanced application of minimally invasive pelvic surgery and surgical oncology for gynecologic malignancies.
  • Trainees will be expected to demonstrate growth and develop their excellence in the fields of professional development, interpersonal and communication skills, professional conduct, and systems-based practice.
  • To bridge both theoretical and practical educational approaches, where trainees will utilize a combination of practical-based learning (periodic assessment and surgical cases) in tandem with completing coursework content (literature readings, lectures, and videos).
  • Upon completion, trainees are expected to have gained and demonstrated a basic learning and established competency in the standard minimally invasive techniques in patients with gynecologic benign disease and malignancy.

Selected Trainees

In the pursuit of excellence, the selection workgroup, led by Dr. Nadeem Abu-Rustum, rigorously reviewed over 25 outstanding applications from members practicing gynecologic oncology surgery in Africa and the Middle East. Dr. Abu-Rustum said, “The great quality of applications shows us the need and demand for such training in this part of the world. The committee was challenged to select only three individuals as they all displayed a passion for innovation, a commitment to patient care, and a drive to excel in the ever-evolving field of gynecologic cancer surgery.”

After careful consideration, we are delighted to announce the names of those who have been chosen to participate in this cutting-edge program.

Dr. Hasan Alsalman
West Bank, Palestine

Training began
November 2023

Dr. Jane Namugga
Kampala, Uganda

Training begins
May 2024

Dr. Azadeh Yousefnezhad
Tehran, Iran

Training begins
October 2024

Dr. David Atallah, who leads the Steering Committee for this program and serves as the elected IGCS Board Member Representative to Africa and the Middle East said, “Their selection reflects not only their personal achievements but also their potential to contribute significantly to the advancement of gynecologic oncology surgery in Africa and the Middle East, a region where opportunities for advanced surgical training is extremely limited.”


The first trainee, Dr. Hasan Alsalman has already arrived at the host site, Başkent University Hospital in Ankara, Turkey.

Training Location

Başkent University Hospital
Ankara, Turkey

The first use of this training curriculum will be implemented at Başkent University Hospital in Ankara, Turkey. Chosen for its exceptional facilities, faculty, and management structure.

Steering Committee

Chair: Dr. David Atallah (Lebanon)
Dr. Rainer Kimmig (Germany)
Dr. Mario Leitao (USA)
Dr. Nadeem Abu-Rustum (USA)
Dr. Ane Gerda Erickson (Norway)
Dr. Hüsnü Celik (Turkey)
Dr. Hüseyin Akilli (Turkey)
Dr. Mike Seoud (Lebanon)
Dr. Leon Snyman (South Africa)
Dr. Monia Hechiche (Tunisia)

Ex-officio
Dr. Ali Ayhan (Turkey)
Dr. Farr Nezhat (USA)
Dr. Greta Dreyer (South Africa)
Ms. Mary Eiken (USA)

Our Generous Donor

Our gratitude to the Nezhat Family Foundation is immeasurable. Their philanthropic vision and dedication to advancing surgical education in Africa and the Middle East have empowered IGCS to provide this unique opportunity perfectly aligned with our mission to enhance women’s cancer care worldwide.

When Dr. Farr Nezhat was informed of those selected, he replied, “I look forward to seeing their progress in the program but also in the years to come. It is my hope that this training program will not only enhance their individual skills but will also have a profound impact on the broader landscape of surgical innovation and patient care in this part of the globe.”