On Thursday 11 November 2021, the School of Medicine (SOM) at the University of Kurdistan Hewlêr (UKH) organized the White Coat Ceremony for the freshmen of the class of 2027.
The ceremony started with welcoming speeches and motivation from the previous Dean of the school, Dr. Bahram Resul followed by the current acting dean Dr. Marwan Abouchakra.
“When you put on the white coat today, it means that you are the best from hundreds of candidates that applied to study in our School, and it means that you dedicate yourself to serve humanity, and protect the honor of your new profession” said Abouchakra.
UKH President Bill Rammell addressed the freshmen in his remarks and urged them to seize the moment and use the best out of their studies and their time at the university. The white coat “symbolizes as well the start of your journey in the medical progression. The medical profession which is a genuine vocation characterized by a special body of knowledge of Medicine that its members must teach and expand, characterized by a code of ethics and a duty of service that puts patient care above self-interest” Bill continued.
The ceremony followed by the white coat presentation to each student by UKH President and other UKH staff.
After putting on their white coats, the students took the oath in front of their colleagues and UKH faculty members and staff.
SOM Students oath:
“I make an oath to always provide a standard of care to the best of my knowledge and ability and to ensure the safety and well-being of any and all persons under my care. I declare that I will do not harm and exercise no prejudice knowingly or intentionally. I will not let political, religious, social or any personal beliefs stand in the way of my duty and care for any and all persons. I will conduct myself honourably as a member of the profession and make this oath upon my honor.”