In Istanbul, where world-renowned academics, Nobel Prize-winning scientists, and a large number of medical students from Turkey and around the world gathered, the International Medical Student Congress (CIMSC), organized by the Cansağlığı Foundation in cooperation with Haliç University, was held on the Haliç University campus in April 2025.
Prof. Rana Dajani participated in the two-day conference, which featured numerous presentations and panels on cutting-edge and emerging topics in medicine such as genetics, oncology, neurosurgery, artificial intelligence, pharmacogenetics, and surgery.
In her presentation, Dajani addressed the psychological and biological impact of trauma on Palestinian and Syrian refugees. She emphasized how trauma can leave epigenetic imprints that affect not only individuals but also future generations. Drawing on her scientific research and humanitarian work, she highlighted the urgent need for trauma-informed healthcare systems and long-term psychosocial support in conflict-affected regions.
To convey her personal and professional journey, Prof. Dajani used five different scarves, each symbolizing one of the many roles she plays—including that of founder of the We Love Reading program. She invited the audience to read her book Five Scarves to learn more about her journey in each role. This symbolic gesture underscored her core message: each individual has a unique path and something valuable to contribute to the world. She encouraged the attendees to believe in their own journeys and to step confidently into their potential.
The congress also hosted a variety of workshops that drew great interest from participants. These sessions aimed to equip medical students with both technical and creative skills, providing hands-on opportunities to reinforce theoretical knowledge through practical experiences.
Organized under the leadership of the Cansağlığı Foundation, this international conference aimed to contribute to the scientific growth of future physicians while fostering global awareness and solidarity in the field of health. It offered attendees a unique opportunity to learn from world-class speakers and to connect with fellow medical students and professionals from across the globe.
#turkey #istanbul #conference