The American College of Surgeons (ACS) has appointed Dr. Waddah Al-Refai, Chair of Surgery at Creighton University and distinguished Kuwaiti surgeon, as its 2025 scientific exchange delegate to the European Society of Surgery (ESS). This landmark selection marks the first time a Kuwaiti, Gulf, or Arab surgeon receives this honor in the program's history.

Historic Achievement:

• Selected during the 31st ESS Annual Meeting in Geneva

• Recognized for pioneering work in [specific surgical specialty]

• Joins elite group of 12 international exchange surgeons annually

Official Statements:
Dr. Al-Refai (to KUNA):
"This honor reflects Kuwait's growing global medical standing and the visionary support of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince, and Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. I remain committed to serving Kuwait while advancing international surgical collaboration."

ACS President Dr. [Name]:
"Dr. Al-Refai embodies our mission to foster surgical excellence across borders. His selection breaks new ground for Middle Eastern representation in global surgery."

Program Details:
✔ Year-long exchange between ACS (founded 1880) and ESS
✔ Includes:

• Keynote presentations at both societies' conferences

• Collaborative research with European surgical centers

• Development of GCC-specific surgical protocols

National Significance:
• Validates Kuwait's medical education reforms
• Follows Kuwait Medical Association's 2024 "Global Surgical Partnerships" initiative
• Positions Kuwait as emerging hub for Arab surgical innovation

Next Steps:

• July 2025: Orientation at ACS Chicago headquarters

• September 2025: Research placement at [European hospital]

• May 2026: Knowledge-transfer workshop in Kuwait