RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) to enhance global surgery.

The three-year MOU was signed within the context of the activities of the Global Surgery Foundation (GSF).

Building on extensive experience in surgical training, education and research partnerships in Africa, the RCSI Institute of Global Surgery works with local partners to develop sustainable surgical care systems in low and middle-income countries. The institute brings together research, education, capacity building and advocacy expertise to expand access to quality patient care.

Through this agreement, UNITAR, GSF and RCSI Institute of Global Surgery commit to work towards capacity building in global surgery and the co-development of training and educational materials and programmes in this field. 

The collaboration also includes National Surgical, Obstetrical and Anaesthesia Plan (NSOAP) monitoring and evaluation, exploring avenues of universal health coverage and a focus on sustainable development in global surgery.

Professor Mark Shrime, O’Brien Chair of Global Surgery, said: "We at the RCSI Institute of Global Surgery are excited to work with UNITAR to develop patient-centred, equity-focused and outcome-driven global surgery research and education."

Through the Global Surgery Foundation, UNITAR seeks to contribute access to safe and affordable emergency and essential surgery. Its mission is to facilitate the development of surgical, obstetrical and anaesthesia care systems that will ensure universal access to emergency and essential surgical care.