Between February 2 and 20, 2025, Badya University had the privilege of hosting a distinguished delegation from the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) as part of an intensive three-week academic exchange. The visit underscored the deepening collaboration between the two institutions in advancing health professions education and research.
Week One: February 2–6, 2025
The delegation included Prof. Jeffrey Susman, Sr. Associate Dean of Educational Performance; Prof. F. Marconi Monteiro, Senior Medical Educator; and Dr. Hani Serag, Director of the Division of Global Partnerships. The visit featured a three-day interactive workshop on problem-based learning, case development, and effective small group facilitation. Faculty members from the Schools of Medicine, Dentistry, and Physical Therapy, along with selected students, engaged in the sessions. Meetings were also held with school leadership to align on future strategic initiatives. The delegates attended four academic classes and provided constructive, positive feedback.
Week Two: February 9–13, 2025
Prof. Kristen Peek, Senior Vice President, and Prof. Neil Mehta, Associate Dean for Research, joined Dr. Serag for a continuation of academic and research-focused dialogue. The week included two lectures delivered to students from the three health profession schools, with a strong emphasis on research methodology. Several meetings with staff research groups took place, where proposed projects were discussed. The UTMB team expressed optimism about the research directions and anticipated future joint publications that would include student contributions.
Week Three: February 17–20, 2025
The School of Physical Therapy welcomed Prof. Carole A. Tucker, Associate Dean of Research; Prof. Laurie W. Farroni, Assistant Dean for Global Outreach and Community Engagement; and Dr. Serag. Alongside Dr. Alaa Balbaa, Dean of the School, they delivered a lecture on the practice of physical therapy in the U.S. and Egypt. Prof. Tucker also presented a session on upper limb motor examination for students from the Schools of Medicine and Physical Therapy. The delegation visited New Haven Hospital with students for clinical observation and participated in a skills lab session focused on motor examination. Discussions with research teams continued, and the visitors observed three academic classes, sharing positive feedback.
This sustained engagement reflects the shared commitment of Badya University and UTMB to advancing academic excellence, and cross-institutional research and education.
