Dear members of the Indian Association of Surgical Gastroenterology,

It is my privilege and pleasure to address you as the President of this esteemed association. As we move forward in our efforts to advance the field of surgical gastroenterology, I would like to draw attention to some pressing challenges that we need to address in order to make our profession more equitable and inclusive.

One such challenge is the issue of gender equality in our profession. While there has been some progress in recent years, there are still significant disparities in the representation of women in surgical gastroenterology. As a community, we need to actively work towards creating a more welcoming and supportive environment for women in our field, and take concrete steps towards addressing any barriers to their advancement.

Another key issue that we need to address is that of mentorship. Mentorship is crucial for the development of surgical skills, but it is also important for cultivating the non-technical skills that are essential for success in our profession. As leaders in the field, we have a responsibility to identify and mentor talented individuals, and to create a supportive environment that encourages mentorship at all levels.

In addition to these non-technical challenges, we also face significant technical challenges in our field. This requires ongoing education and training in the latest advances in our field, as well as a commitment to ongoing research and development.

To provide the best possible care for our patients, we must stay at the forefront of new developments in surgical techniques and technologies. IASG should be the forum to provide ongoing professional development and training programs to ensure that our members are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to provide the best possible care. We should also ensure that all patients have access to high-quality care particularly in underserved areas, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.

Finally, we need to recognize the importance of non-technical skills in surgical gastroenterology. While technical proficiency is obviously crucial, it is equally important to develop skills such as communication, teamwork, and leadership. By focusing on these non-technical skills, we can create a culture that prioritizes patient safety and high-quality care.

As we move forward as an association, I urge all members to take these challenges seriously and work together to create a more inclusive, supportive, and equitable environment for all members of our profession. By addressing both the technical and non-technical challenges facing our field, we can advance the field of surgical gastroenterology and improve outcomes for our patients.

Thank you for your attention.

Sincerely,
Dr. Sadiq S Sikora
President, Indian Association of Surgical Gastroenterology