The third anniversary of the UK-Ukraine Twinning Initiative program

The Odesa National Medical University (ONMedU) is celebrating the third anniversary of the UK-Ukraine Twinning Initiative program, which promotes international academic relations and innovation in higher education. Within the framework of this initiative, ONMedU established a partnership with Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), which became an important step in the university’s international cooperation.

The cooperation between ONMedU and QMUL began in July 2022 and covers various areas, including clinical practice of ONMedU students in leading hospitals in London.

Here are some reviews from our students about their stay in London:

“As a participant in the Ukraine twinning program at Queen Mary University of London, my experience was both enriching and challenging. The program offered a unique opportunity to immerse myself in a different medical education system, broaden my perspectives, and gain invaluable insights into the field of medicine. Firstly, what I particularly liked about the twinning program was the emphasis on practical experience. The approach to teaching encouraged active participation and critical thinking skills. The use of modern technology provided hands-on training, which I found immensely beneficial. Additionally, the opportunity to interact with a diverse group of healthcare professionals broadened my understanding of healthcare practice”. (Serhii Tarasenko, Medicine, 4th year)

“I had an unforgettable clinical experience in the best hospitals of London this autumn. What I value most about this practice is the opportunity not only to see organization of the healthcare system in Great Britain, but also to communicate with doctors on various medical topics, learning something from them. Also, we met a lot of British students who were very friendly and helpful. This practice made me sure that I really want to be a good doctor and develop medicine in Ukraine.” (Maria Persianova, 5th year, Medicine)

Julia Senkivska (4th uear, Medicine) has been very impressed with how welcoming people in London have been.

“When you need help, people help you. I couldn’t find my rescheduled train and people helped me. The Queen Mary University team made me feel most at home here. When I have a problem, any hour, the team have helped me. During my stay in London I felt very comfortable and cosy.

I learned a lot of new things. I was present during an obstetric examination in the women’s consultation and functional-instrumental examination. I got acquainted with the only medical helicopter service in London, whose team of doctors and paramedics provides pre-hospital care to victims with severe injuries at the scene. I practiced cardiology and cardiac surgery at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital, which is considered to be the oldest (900 years) and the best heart center in Europe.

The opportunity to study abroad and gain new experience helps to become a doctor of the highest level.

 

A key figure in the implementation of these plans is Professor Sir Mark Caulfield, Deputy Director of Health and Director of the NIHR Barts Center for Biomedical Research at QMUL. Recognition of his significant contribution to the development of medical science and international cooperation was marked by the awarding of the title “Honorary Doctor of Odesa National Medical University” in November 2024.

The UK-Ukraine Twinning Initiative program, coordinated by Cormack Consultancy Group with the support of Universities UK International and the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, aims to create strong partnerships between Ukrainian and British universities. This partnership facilitates the exchange of knowledge, resources and experience, which is extremely important for the support and development of Ukrainian higher education in the face of modern challenges.

ONMedU highly appreciates the cooperation with QMUL and Professor Sir Mark Caulfield, which opens up new opportunities for students and teachers, promotes integration into the international scientific community and improves the quality of medical education in Ukraine.