On the 8th and 9th of October 2024, the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (DLMP) at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) successfully hosted the prestigious Part 2 Histopathology Fellowship examination of the Royal College of Pathologists (FRCPath), London, UK for the first time in Qatar.
The FRCPath Part 2 examination in Histopathology is a prestigious and highly sought-after qualification, representing the final hurdle for pathologists aspiring to gain Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists, UK. It is a rigorous, practice-oriented exam designed to test advanced diagnostic skills, clinical knowledge, and decision-making abilities essential for independent practice. Successfully passing this exam not only demonstrates a high level of competence but also signals to employers, peers, and institutions worldwide that the candidate is an expert in their field, capable of meeting international standards in pathology. This qualification is recognized globally, often considered a gold standard in pathology, and is a critical requirement for senior roles in both clinical and academic settings.
Doha was selected as an exam centre after a highly competitive process, with Qatar emerging as one of only two new centres to win the bid, and the only one in the GCC region. The decision to host the exam in Qatar was made possible by the robust international experience of the DLMP Histopathology faculty and the unwavering support of Dr Einas Al Kuwari, Chair of Clinical Services at DLMP, and Dr Abdullatif Al Khal, Director of Medical Education at HMC.
The Lead examiner for the Doha centre was Dr Syed Hasan Rizvi, who was ably supported by local examiners Dr Mahir Petkar and Dr Samir Al Hyassat. Dr Rizvi was previously the Lead examiner in London for many years and has considerable experience in organising the exam. The internationally renowned ITQAN Simulation Centre, accredited by Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH), provided a state-of-the-art venue for the examination, offering an exceptional environment for both candidates and examiners.
The event welcomed 28 international candidates, 2 local candidates and 8 international examiners, including the Chair of the Panel of Examiners from the Royal College, who praised the outstanding facilities and seamless organization of the exam. The exam was overseen by the Head of Examinations of the Royal College of Pathologists.
Dr Einas Al Kuwari expressed her pride in the successful hosting of the event, emphasizing that it reflects DLMP's dedication to excellence and international collaboration. She noted that the trust placed by the Royal College of Pathologists (UK) in Qatar to host such a high-stakes exam is a testament to the country's growing reputation as a hub for academic and clinical excellence.
Hosting the FRCPath Part 2 exam in Qatar is not only a major achievement for DLMP but also positions the nation as a leader in medical education and training in the region. This milestone reinforces the vision of Qatar to be recognized for world-class healthcare and education, attracting international collaborations and talent to the region.
