The Emory Tibet Medical Sciences Exchange Program (ETMS) is a collaborative initiative between Emory University School of Medicine and Men-Tsee-Khang Sowa-Rigpa Medical College. The program, which initially began in 2013, has been a remarkable educational endeavor that bridges the realms of biomedical science and Tibetan medicine. Despite the interruption caused by the Covid-19 outbreak, we are thrilled to have resumed this program, as it has been a source of great learning and exchange for both institutions.

Dr. Edward Pettus (Ph.D., Anatomist, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine) joined us from Emory University in Atlanta, USA as a volunteer faculty for the subject of Anatomy Practical. The detailed topics for the program were derived from the Course Curriculum for First Professional BSRMS prescribed by the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM). Dr. Pettus is a renowned professor at Emory School of Medicine with twenty-five years of experience teaching Anatomy to medical students at Emory. His numerous publications in esteemed international journals further attest to his expertise in the field. This marks his fifth time serving as a volunteer faculty member, having previously contributed to the success of the programs held in 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Pettus for his firm commitment to this program.

The program commenced with an opening function on the morning of June 19th and included 15 sessions covering various topics, such as the introduction to Anatomy, Appendicular and Axial Skeleton, Joints, Tendons, Ligaments and Movement, Respiratory System, Muscular System, and Pelvis & Perineum. All the attendees actively participated in the Anatomy Practical sessions into groups using 3-dimensional resources such as skeleton models under the guided instructions. On the last day, an assessment was conducted followed by the closing function. Mr. Thupten Tsering, our honorable Director, graced both the opening and closing functions and addressed the gathering. During the closing function, student representatives expressed their feedback on the program, followed by delightful dance and song performances presented by the students and the professor.

Overall, the program was a great success and proved to be fruitful for all the participants. Men-Tsee-Khang would like to express gratitude to the leadership of Emory Medicine School, especially Dr. Bill Eley, Professor and Associate Dean, Medical Education and Student Affairs, Emory University, for its continued support and collaboration.