International University of the Health Sciences Wins Zairi Award of Excellence for Digital Transformation

IUHS is acclaimed for its use of technology in bringing medical education to students across the globe.

The International University of the Health Sciences (IUHS) won the Zairi International Award for Excellence in Higher Education at a recent ceremony in Dubai, attended by hundreds of international educators.

Innovations in medical education

In its second year, the Zairi Award for Digital Transformation was given to the St. Kitts and Nevis-based medical and health sciences university, in recognition of its use of technology to bring medical education to students around the world.

"This award recognizes decades of work. Through technology, IUHS strives to educate doctors 'within' their own borders so they can better serve the communities they will eventually care for," says Dr. Juliana Furay, IUHS vice president of strategic initiatives.

The digital transformation achieved by IUHS is built on the translation of the traditional medical school learning environment to a hybrid system. IUHS was recognized for its novel use of the DxR Clinician platform as well as its development of customized electronic tutoring through its Diagnostic and Retention assessments. Along with interactive faculty-led teaching and group discussion, this novel approach to medical education with minimal "bricks and mortar" has seen IUHS graduating nearly 500 physicians in countries around the globe.

The digital transformation award recognizes schools that have:

• successfully implemented digital transformation initiatives to solve challenges
• operate more efficiently
• offer a more comprehensive student-centric learning experience by leveraging technology

The award aims to reward institutions that keep inspiring others to push the boundaries of higher education technology and innovation.

Sustainable development around the world

Among 179 entries from 37 countries, 12 higher education institutions were shortlisted with six winners awarded from universities in:

• St. Kitts and Nevis
• Rwanda
• Oman
• Italy
• Saudi Arabia

Sessions at the conference focused on the World Health Organization's Sustainable Development Goals with presenters and participants from countries all over the globe.

Addressing a global shortage of medical professionals

Founded in 1998, IUHS transforms the learning experience and underlying economics of medical education with the goal of addressing the global shortage, inequitable distribution, and demographic participation of healthcare professionals, especially in primary care.

IUHS is registered in St. Kitts and Nevis, and operates as a modern, innovative, digitally-driven global university with approximately 300 students worldwide.