Jammu, April: Associate Professor in the Department of Orthopaedics at AIIMS Jammu, Dr Rashid Anjum represented India as a ‘Young Ambassador’ at the Asia Pacific Orthopaedic Association (APOA) 2025 Congress, held in Cairns, Australia.
He was one of only 15 outstanding young orthopaedic surgeons selected from across the Asia-Pacific region for this prestigious programme that aims to foster academic excellence, leadership and international collaboration among the next generation of orthopaedic professionals.
An AIIMS Jammu spokesperson said that as part of the APOA Young Ambassador Programme, Dr Anjum participated in a dynamic schedule comprising academic interactions, clinical observations, and peer networking. He engaged in high-level academic exchanges and in-depth discussions with fellow ambassadors and senior faculty members from across the region, focussing on the latest advancements, innovations and challenges in orthopaedic healthcare.
During his visit, he also toured several leading healthcare institutions in Cairns, where he observed global best practices in surgical planning, patient care protocols, and hospital-based training systems.
At the Congress, Dr Anjum delivered two impactful podium presentations. His first talk, titled “Orthopaedics in India: Challenges, Innovations, and the Road Ahead,” highlighted India’s rapidly evolving orthopaedic landscape and the integration of emerging technologies in clinical practice.
His second presentation, “Leadership in Orthopaedics,” emphasized the significance of mentorship, academic stewardship, and the rising role of young orthopaedic professionals in shaping global healthcare leadership. Both sessions received commendation from senior APOA faculty for their clarity, depth, and relevance.
In addition to his academic engagements, Dr Anjum also participated in ceremonial events such as the “President’s Dinner” and the “Congress banquet”, where he was formally awarded a “Certificate of Honour” by the APOA leadership.
“The recognition marked the successful completion of his ambassadorship and acknowledged his remarkable representation of AIIMS Jammu and India on an esteemed international platform,” the AIIMS Jammu spokesperson said.
Reflecting on his experience, Dr Anjum expressed, “It was a rare privilege to represent India and AIIMS Jammu at such a prestigious international forum. The APOA Congress offered deep academic insights and valuable learning from diverse healthcare systems. I am grateful to APOA and AIIMS Jammu for this opportunity, and I return more inspired than ever to contribute to orthopaedic innovation and education in India.”
The APOA 2025 Congress brought together delegates from over 30 countries and featured some of the world’s foremost experts in trauma, spine surgery, arthroplasty, paediatric orthopaedics, and sports injuries. The Young Ambassador Programme is considered a cornerstone initiative for grooming the next generation of orthopaedic leaders in the Asia-Pacific region.
Dr Amit Thakur, Additional Professor and Head of the Department of Orthopaedics, AIIMS Jammu, remarked, “The Department of Orthopaedics at AIIMS Jammu takes immense pride in Dr Rashid Anjum’s successful completion of the APOA Young Ambassador Programme. His selection and active participation at an international academic forum of this stature are reflective of the department’s continued emphasis on academic rigor, global engagement, and professional development.”
Prof (Dr) Shakti Kumar Gupta, Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Jammu, also congratulated Dr Anjum, stating, “This is a proud moment for the entire institute. Dr Anjum’s selection and successful representation of India at the APOA Congress reaffirm our commitment to nurturing world-class professionals and advancing India’s leadership in global healthcare.”
