MedSIN-Sudan KMSA SCORE Guidebook by KMSA Local Team

MedSIN-KMSA

R A U

2 20

SCORE GUIDEBOOK THE ADVENTURE AWAITS

TI O

12 25

S IP LT RA NE GE

CH AR SE ES RE T R ITU OU ST IN

FA QS

OU PR R OG SO RA CIA M L S

N IO '19 T E LU TH VO RE

OU R PR RE OJ SE EC AR TS CH

CONTENTS 4

A MESSAGE FROM THE LORE Sudan welcomes you today wholeheartedly with open arms! We are delightfully inviting you to join us and have a wonderful tour around one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. We boast a unique social program filled with various fun activities ranging from visiting historical locations and checking out culturally rich settings all the way to settling down to listen to traditional music with some of our world renowned local coffee at hand, all this and more to ensure that you have a unique and unforgettable experience in the land of the black pharaohs. We are also determined to spare no time, effort or energy in our quest of excellence towards the IFMSA Exchange program as we are ready to do our utmost to provide you with a rich scientific experience full of learning opportunities that will undoubtedly nurture your growth, and Sudan is the ideal place for that due to the many distinctive endemic diseases that reside right here. We in MedSIN-KMSA are fully committed to exploring new horizons and we really hope this opportunity will be the beginning of a fruitful experience in your life. Looking forward to having you enjoy all this with us!!

Khalid Tarig KMSA LORE 2020-21

N O I T C U D O R T IN Get to know all about UofK in this section INCLUDES:

SUDAN OUR UNIVERSITY LOCATION OUR HISTORY

SUDAN The heart of Africa calls forth. Widely known for its size, Sudan was previously the largest country in Africa but due to the seperation of the south it currently resides as the third largest in the continent and sixteenth largest in the world. Admired for its top-notch hospitality and sensational tourism spots, a memorable visit is absolutely guaranteed. Lying in the north-east of Africa, Sudan spearheads the continent's quest for progress.

OUR UNIVERSITY The University of Khartoum is the oldest and most renowned university in Sudan, having been acknowledged as one of the top universities nationally and regionally, in addition to being recognized as a high-ranked academic institution worldwide for decades. Our motto here is God - Truth - Our Country and Humanity, which refers to the 4 major pillars our ethics are based on. UofK is a culturally rich location where the scent of Sudanese grace oozes from every corner in the campus. Nicknamed as "Al-Jamila Al-Mustahila” (literally translating to "The beautiful and impossible") due to its refined structure and facilities which are only available to the very best of every generation.

LOCATION The campus of the faculty of medicine is separated from the main campus of the university of Khartoum. It's located right in the center of the Khartoum city in the same street (AlQasr Avenue) as the Republican Palace of Sudan, which goes to show its national significance. It also neighbors many more nationally recognized locations such as Al-soug el-arabi and the National Central Labratory (Stack). For the location of the faculty, press

-LINK-

OUR HISTORY 1956

1902

Khartoum Students’

The university of Khartoum was

society formed the

founded as Gordon Memorial

Sudan medical students

College

association (SMSA)

Kitchener school of medicine was formed being the first medical teaching institute in Sudan.

1924

2003 SMSA eventually changed its name to MedSIN-Sudan, representing the entire country. To be continued.....

SCORE first became active in Sudan

2008

THE '19 N O I T U L REVO Get to know the inner workings of one of the most notable events of the past decade, occuring right here in Sudan.

“Madaniaaaaao”. as of April 2019 this is one of ........ .......... the most used words in Sudan. It mainly means that we, ........... as Revolutionaries, want a Civilian government. A word that . .. ...... ..was worth much more than gold at the time. The Sudanese ......Revolution was a major shift of political power in Sudan that started with street protests throughout Sudan on 13 December 2018 and continued with sustained civil disobedience for about eight months, during which multiple dramatic events took place, including but not limited to, the dethroning of 2 presidents, about a dozen processions and the ...indescribable genocide that took place in the sit-in. Negotiations were ......ongoing throughout the year and an agreement was officially .. ......signed on the 17th of August 2019. Hence, putting an end to one of the ..... ... ..biggest events of the 21st century. For more information on this topic visit

-LINK-

O UR SO CI A L PR O G RA M S Find out all about our phenomenal social programs INCLUDES:

BARKAL MOUNTAIN

MARAWI

TOTI ISLAND

SUDAN NATIONAL MUSEUM

AL-SOFIEA

OMDURMAN MARKET

THE CALIPH HOUSE

WEDDINGS

AN D MA NY MO RE. ..

THE NFDP

NUBA WRESTLING

MARAWI A city located in the northern lands of Sudan, 330 kilometers (205 miles) away from the capital (Khartoum). Marawi is a historical city famous for its overflowing culture and ancient ruins. Some of its popular tourist areas include a place called Albajrawia. The largest collection of pyramids worldwide is located right here in Albajrawia containing more than 148 pyramids in total.

BARKAL MOUNTAIN Another iconic place in Marawi is the Barkal mountain. There you’ll see one of the most sacred sites in history, where the Southern Temple of Amun lies. It is said that the coronation of each and every Egyptian pharaoh is completed only with the blessing of the god Amon on Barkal mountain as he is considered the holy father of all Pharaohs. Moreover, you will discover and visit the remains of the Kush Empire. One of the oldest and most unique civilizations to ever exist. And one that, to this day baffles even the most recognized of archeologists worldwide.

PORT SUDAN A city that lies in Eastern Sudan, 815 kilometers (500 miles) northeast of Khartoum. It’s a coastal city overlooking the Red Sea. characterized by the purity and transparency of its waters. It is the most attractive natural area in Sudan abounds in coral reefs. Currently it attracts a large part of tourists who come to Sudan, especially lovers of the sea, scuba diving and other water sports. It is considered one of the purest seas in the world as the effects of pollution did not extend to it yet.

TOTI ISLAND Made of eight square kilometers (three square miles) of fertile land, covered in citrus orchards, and vegetable farms. The island itself forms the edge where the White Nile and Blue Nile merge to form the Nile, which is recognized as the longest river in the world. This point of intersection is called "AlMogran", and due to its geographical significance, this location has been considered sacred since ancient times. Our social programs include setting up a campfire on this very island with multiple activities and games in addition to a BBQ. We also take you on a refreshing cruise down the Nile river, making sure you enjoy one of the world's greatest natural creations first-hand.

AL-SABALOGA WATERFALLS Located in a mountainous area, the waterfall shares the location with the sixth cataract of the Nile (shallow lengths of the river where the surface of the water is broken by many small boulders and stones jutting out of the river bed). This combination creates quite the sight for wandering eyes, which becomes that much better during sunset, as this spot is considered one of the most beautiful sites in Sudan to watch the sun descending upon the horizon.

AL-SOFIEA This word signifies a mystical ritual carried out by religious men. The word “Sofiea” means austerity, which indicates people whom live life simply. Tourism events include visiting temples, museums and historical places, you also get to personally watch their cultural festival. This festival is to be made every Friday, 4 pm in Hamad Alneel cemetery. There, you can enjoy the Nubian sounds and see kindness spread widely between people. The place is visited by men, women, youth, eldery and children making it a very festive location.

SUDAN NATIONAL MUSEUM The museum contains many miniature temples, cemeteries, memorials and statues of various sizes, which were saved before the waters of the High Dam flooded their areas. They were reconstructed around a water basin representing the Nile River so that it appears as if it is in its original location. In front of the museum, there is The Art Gallery which is an open gallery with many paintings and drawings. You can buy random paintings or request your own design, you will also see the art of coffee drawing.

OMDURMAN MARKET With the spread of giant and modern supermarkets, stores and malls throughout the capital, Khartoum. Omdurman market is still one of the iconic places that tourists just love visiting. The market has survived for over two centuries by selling locally manufactured products. They stock up on their various merchandise ranging from traditional bracelets, clothing and souvenirs all the way to regular household items. As for street vendors, they do their job in serving customers in traditional Sudanese robes (Jalabya). They put the products on the floor and sing in a loud voice accompanied by applause, as they form vocal groups with an artist and a chorus in perfect coordination and sometimes accompanied by drums.

THE CALIPH HOUSE “Bait Alkhalifa” Museum in Omdurman was previously the residence of Caliph Abdullah Al-Taishi during the “Mahdia” period in the 19th century. The Museum contains many rare holdings of the “Mahdia” period and other tools dating back to before it, such as pistols, harpoons and swords, etc.. The museum also contains pottery and coins among other items dating back to the period of “Nabtah” and “Marawi” civilizations. The Caliph House yard is used for celebrating the prophet’s (PBUH) birthday (Al-Moleed) every year. Sweets sellers gather and set up tents in front of the house yard to sell the “moleed” candies.

NUBA WRESTLING Nuba wrestling is an old traditional form of wrestling in Sudan. This event has been taking place for centuries as it originated in the Nuba mountains, the sport has become wildly popular in recent years and is considered an enjoyable event for the locals to watch. Like other forms of wrestling, the objective is to get your opponent on their back. This event is an interesting display of Sudanese grit and the fighters' unyielding spirit.

WEDDINGS We pride ourselves on having one of the most festive cultures you will ever come across. Numerous weddings take place during year, and we consider it our responsibility to introduce our incomings to these events. Our weddings consist of many traditional phases including an official ceremony, a wedding party and many after parties and events including the “jertik” which is a ritual done to the newly weds to represent protection and commitment.

THE NATIONAL FOOD AND DRINK PARTY (NFDP)

On a set upon date we will all gather wearing traditional Sudanese clothing (including the incomings :)) and have a large feast filled to the brim with Sudanese culture where we sing, eat traditional food and play games. This will include a session where we all get to know each other and where we officially welcome you as members of the Sudanese family. "The incomings are also encouraged to share their national food and cultures as much as possible"

OUR RESEARCH INSTITUTES Get to know all all about our affiliated research institutes INCLUDES:

THE ENDEMIC DISEASES INSTITUTE NATIONAL CENTRAL LABORATORY (STACK)

THE MYCETOMA RESEARCH CENTER (MRC)

ENDEMIC DISEASES INSTITUTE Standing among the best educational institutions in Sudan, The institute of endemic diseases was established in 1993 as a research and training center for physicians and students alike. It acts as a platform for medical research in the University of Khartoum and has successfully conducted over a hundred research projects. The institute trains physicians, scientists and health workers in the field of endemic diseases in addition to supplying medical and health services to the community.

NATIONAL CENTRAL LABORATORY (STACK) The Stack Medical Research Laboratory was first established in 1927. It was known as the "Wellcome Tropical Research Laboratories" at the time and the institute was recognized worldwide for their innovative and excellent work and the many scientific papers arising from them. By 1935, the Stack Memorial Laboratories had become an important center for vaccine creation, training Sudanese assistants and the official research home of the Sudan Medical Service. The institute hopes to reach a healthy and productive community that has a continuous and personalized health care system that meets their needs and is available to them at all times.

THE MYCETOMA RESEARCH CENTER (MRC) Mycetoma is a very common health problem, considered an endemic in many tropical and subtropical regions and reported throughout the globe. The Mycetoma Research Center was established in 1991 under the umbrella of the University of Khartoum. It was set up at Soba University Hospital to provide medical care for Mycetoma patients, in addition to researching and teaching the various aspects of mycetoma. The center is recognized globally as a world leader and an authoritative advisor in Mycetoma management and research. The present study reports on 6,792 patients with mycetoma seen and managed at the MRC in a period of 23 years. This is the largest reported number of cases of the disease at a national and international level.

OUR RESEARCH PROJECTS Check out our distinct research projects in this section. INCLUDES:

INVESTIGATION OF VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES DEVELOPMENT OF MALARIA DIAGNOSTICS MEDICAL MISSIONS

with more to be added very soon :)))

INVESTIGATION OF VECTORBORNE DISEASES This is a basic science research project where the involved personnel will work on building a database of vectors responsible for major human and veterinary diseases (particularly mosquito vectors) using multiple advanced methods such as morphological identification, molecular identification, extensive barcoding methods, etc. Laboratory tests and sample processing will be crucial in generating information for decision making, strategic planning and implementation of the prevention and control measures for the district. For more information on the project visit

-LINK-

DEVELOPMENT OF MALARIA DIAGNOSTICS In this project the students will help evaluate and refine malaria diagnostic methods within the district. They will interact with patients, collect data and analyze it through the latest, state of the art technology. In addition to taking part in multiple high-end laboratory tests (ex. Molecular work, rapid tests and serology, etc.) to find the weak links within the system. Students are also encouraged to leave their mark by proposing new ideas and methods that they think might help in the fight against malaria.

For more information on the project visit

-LINK-

MEDICAL MISSIONS The rural health system in Sudan is considered inefficent, therefore most of the villagers cannot obtain the necessary health care. Medical students in Khartoum often conduct medical missions or days to these rural areas to educate them and raise their awareness in basic health concepts, establish free clinics to examine patients and create a pharmacy to distribute free medicine to the needy. In recent times, conducting research and collecting data from these areas has become one of the main objectives of the medical missions. Students collect data from the villages they visit, and then study and analyze it after returning to conduct a systematic scientific research. Unfortunately these missions aren't carried out every month so make sure to talk to your CP about this.

GENERAL TIPS Advice to prepare yourself for your adventure in KMSA is provided in this section.

Be sure to ask your sending LORE for your SCORE logbook as you will be charged for printing it if you don't bring it along.

Make sure you visit your research institute within 4 days of your arrival to officially start your program.

Ensure you attend at least 80 percent of all working hours to ensure you get your certificate.

The dress code in the departments include a lab coat so make sure to bring your own. The dress code also includes wearing half/full sleeves in addition to wearing jeans/longskirts (shorts not allowed) during work hours.

General dress ethics are pretty laxed but girls are advised against wearing shorts in public.

Substance abuse (smoking, chewing tobacco, etc) is generally prohibited during working hours.

The country is generally safe but always move around with someone just in case, and try to avoid being out after 11 pm.

Make sure you have both the contact person and the LORE's contact information (phone number, Whatsapp number, etc) it is also advised to save them as emergency contacts in your phone in case of emergencies.

Be sure to notify your contact person if you plan on going somewhere

Never leave your stuff unattended in public.

Do not let random people into your room.

Do not go anywhere with strangers other than your contact person, hosting LORE, Local SCORE team, the social program organizing committee and KMSA students (make sure you always notify your contact person).

For more information regarding KMSA's exchange program feel free to check out our explore page

-LINKCheck out IFMSA's code of conduct for more details about the rules and regulations of the exchange program

-LINK-

FAQS In this section we answer all of the common questions that you may have. INCLUDES: ABOUT SUDAN ABOUT THE EXCHANGE PROCESS ABOUT OUR PROGRAM

ABOUT SUDAN Where exactly is sudan? Sudan lies in the north-east of Africa, bordered by the red sea in addition to many other African countries

How’s the weather in Sudan? Sudan has a tropical climate. Summer temperatures often exceed 43.3

degrees

Celsius

(110

degrees

Fahrenheit).

Khartoum

the

average annual temperature is about 26, 7° Celsius (80° Fahrenheit). You should ask your CP to tell you about the weather in the month you are coming in.

I heard that Sudan is an insecure country with many wars. Is this true? Indeed there have been many wars in Sudan, but this was before the December revolution. Now the situation in Sudan is completely safe, and you can come without any hesitation.

Can I go out for a walk alone? In terms of safety, it is completely safe and you can go out wherever you want. But the problem is communication, as it is difficult to find someone who speaks English randomly in streets. So it’s better to tell your contact person to go out with you.

What currency do you use in Sudan? The Sudanese pound in the currency currently in use here.

I have extra funds in which i want to exchange for sudanese pounds, where can i do that. We advice you to bring any extra funds you have in the form of US dollar cash, as Mastercard and other forms of electronic payment are not yet available in Sudan. Your CP will help you throughout the currency exchange process.

Does my country have an embassy/consulate in Khartoum The following link will send you to a page containing all the embassies/consulates located in Sudan, with a detailed description of location and means of contact in addition to other details.

-LINK-

ABOUT THE EXCHANGE Who’s going to pick me up from the airport? Picking the student up from the place of arrival and take him/her to the lodging place is deemed as mandatory responsibility of the CP. Sometimes, under specific measures and by the agreement of both the

incoming

student

and

relevant

LORE

representative

will

delegated to the job.

I can’t arrive on the first day of exchange. Is it ok if I come a few days later? If the student does not arrive within the first 4 days of his arrival, the exchange program can no longer be guaranteed.

My meeting in the embassy was appointed too late to get my visa before the exchange. What can I do about it? Contact the LOs - depending on your situation, our NMO will try to find a reasonable solution.

When should I start contacting my CP? You can get in touch with your CP as soon as you get the CC.

I failed to send the CC before the deadline. Is my exchange going to be cancelled? It is very important to respect the deadlines. In this case, you need to send the CC as soon as possible and report it to the hosting LO. What happens with the exchange, depends solely on the hosting NMO. Also, make sure to inform the sending LO about the delay and ask him/her to inform your NO about the case.

I’d like to take a day or two off for travelling. Do I need to report it to someone? Make sure you inform the tutor and the hosting LO about your

plans

advance

and

that

you

still

fulfill

the

80%

attendance requirement.

What should I bring with me? As you might find in our Exchange Conditions, you should bring a stethoscope, surgical scrubs, a white coat and one formal dress (suit,

etc)

incase

you

get

conduct

scientific

presentation.

Moreover, any personal stuff you may use (eg. towels) can be handy, mosquito reppelant sprays are also advised. Don't forget to bring your SCORE logbook and things that could help you represent your culture in our events.

ABOUT OUR PROGRAM Where will I live? Depending on the local team, amount of students and time of the year the incoming will be be placed on a villa or an apartment with their fellow incomings. The exact location of the boarding depends on the number of incomings arriving in that month.

How are my daily meals organised? We offer two meals per working day in a form of pocket money handed to the student.

How often will there be a social event? Three times per week. Every weekend (Friday-Saturday) in addition to a week day.

If you have any further question or concerns do not hesitate to contact us through email at medsin.kmsa.lore@gmail.com or kmsa.lore.assistant@gmail.com

Last but not least, I would like to show my gratitude to the members of the SWG that was responsible for the creation of this booklet

Ahmed Rifaat General Member

Ethar Khalid General Member

Nabtah Seif Publication Member (LORE's Academic Assistant 2020-21)

Amr Kamal Supervisor (LORE's Publication Assistant 2020-21)

and a BIG thank you to the members of the SCORE local team that helped the SWG throughout this process

Mohammed Mahmoud

Zainab Bakri

LORE's Academic Assistant 2020-21

LORE's General Assistant 2020-21

WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING MORE AND MORE SCOREANS IN THE FUTURE!!!

BLEED BLUE!!

We hereby credit "Khalid Elsir photography", "Rihla facebook page", "Sudan in photos" and our previous incomings for some of the photos found in this booklet