Abdullah Al-Salem University Welcomes First Batch of Medical and Health Sciences Students

The College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Abdullah Al-Salem University welcomed its first cohort of students today, Sunday, as the 2026/2027 academic year began. Fifty-four male and female students started the six-year "Doctor of Medicine (MD)" program, which awards an MD degree from Abdullah Al-Salem University. The curriculum was developed in collaboration with King’s College London, with a focus on mental health alongside physical health, prevention, technology integration, and quality improvement.

In a statement, University President Dr. Mani Al-Ahmed expressed pride in welcoming the first cohort of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, noting that the college represents an ambitious step toward building an educational system that prepares medical professionals capable of keeping pace with the rapid advancements in medical sciences and technologies, while contributing to community service and enhancing human health and quality of life. Dr. Al-Ahmed advised students, “As you begin this journey, recognize that success in the College of Medicine and Health Sciences is achieved through patience, discipline, perseverance, time management, and the ability to work in teams. The path of knowledge is long, and a true physician remains a lifelong learner.” She expressed hope that the college would become a home for knowledge, a field for excellence, and a space for research and discovery, praying to God to guide the students on their path, bless their knowledge and efforts, and establish the college as a towering scientific institution.

For his part, Acting Dean of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dr. Aaid Khader, welcomed the new students, describing the day as “a historic moment for the college, as they are the first cohort to launch the university’s Doctor of Medicine program.” Dr. Khader stated that these students “have chosen one of the noblest human professions, which is not limited to knowledge and expertise but is fundamentally rooted in humanity, compassion, responsibility, and integrity.” He added that an outstanding physician is not merely one who possesses knowledge, but one who applies it to serve patients and society, excels in listening and empathy, and makes the right decisions at the right time.

He clarified that students are not joining a traditional medical program but rather a new college established with a clear objective: to prepare future physicians capable of keeping pace with rapid advancements in medical sciences, technology, and artificial intelligence, while simultaneously treating patients as human beings with needs, emotions, and rights. Dr. Khader explained that the college follows a modern, integrated curriculum developed in collaboration with King’s College London, linking basic medical sciences with clinical sciences and emphasizing active learning, problem-solving, teamwork, and continuous education. He noted that the goal is not merely to graduate successful students, but to produce distinguished physicians, researchers, and leaders in healthcare.

He emphasized that the first cohort are partners in building the college, and that their achievements, behavior, and discipline will shape the institution’s reputation in the coming years. He wished them an academic journey filled with success and excellence, anticipating the day when the university celebrates their graduation as distinguished physicians whom the State of Kuwait will proudly claim.

The first cohort was selected through Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) conducted in collaboration with King’s College London. These interviews assess applicants’ critical thinking, communication skills, and ability to handle ethical and professional scenarios, alongside their academic records. The college also requires applicants to achieve a minimum score of 6.5 in each of the four sections of the IELTS test to ensure a high level of English proficiency.

The six-year program is divided into three stages. Teaching combines lectures, small-group seminars, case-based learning, and early training in professionalism and communication. The theme of digital health and the future of healthcare runs throughout all years of the program.