The 28th RDTC International CME Conference and Post Graduate Reunion 2023: Celebrating Skin Health Education in Africa

The Regional Dermatology Training Centre (RDTC) in Moshi, Tanzania, has been organising the Continuing Medical Education (CME) conference for over a decade, with the most recent conference taking place from 11-13th January 2023. The theme for this year’s CME focused on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and Global Health Dermatology. It offered an opportunity for healthcare practitioners to update their knowledge on the latest developments in skin health.

The Patients Forum proved to be a memorable event, with one session in particular significantly impacting attendees. Dr Kim Madundo, the Consulting Psychiatrist at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, presented his work centred on improving mental health in Tanzania through collaboration with the IDEAS for Hope project. The session featured three of Dr Madundo's patients, who shared their moving experiences coping with their conditions. These individuals offered invaluable perspectives on the daily challenges they face and how, with the help of support systems and a strong personal outlook, they were able to lead fulfilling and active lives. Dr Madundo's presentation served as a powerful reminder of the critical need for accessible and effective mental health services for those in need. The session left an indelible impression on attendees, emphasising the importance of prioritising mental health care worldwide.

One of the most impressive aspects of the RDTC CME is that it ensures that previous graduates have an opportunity to continue their medical education. In fact, the conference is the only one of its kind in the region. Additionally, current students and residents had the opportunity to present their research and seek advice on challenging cases.

The RDTC reimburses past graduates with travel and accommodation costs, making it easier for them to attend. The total reimbursement cost for the last conference was US$32,000, with US$10,000 provided by the International Foundation for Dermatology (IFD).

The recent CME marked a milestone, as this is the first time that attendees from outside Africa have attended in high numbers since the COVID-19 pandemic. The conference had an excellent turnout from IFD board members, including Claire Fuller, Luca Borradori, Jin Ho Chung, and external advisors Rod Hay and Esther Freeman. ILDS Secretariat staff Arpita Bhose, Executive Director, and Claire Leeson, (former) Development Manager, also attended the event.

In addition to the expert speakers, the RDTC also awarded student prizes to recognise outstanding achievements. The prize funds were supported by the IFD, with each prize winner receiving US$100. The following students were the recipients of the prizes:

Overall, the recent 28th RDTC International CME Conference and Post Graduate Reunion 2023 was an impressive event that highlighted the remarkable work that the organisation is doing to improve skin health education in Africa. It was a real celebration of the progress made in skin health education and served as an inspiration for healthcare practitioners to continue their vital work in the field.

Learn more about the ILDS and the RDTC

The Regional Dermatology Training Centre (RDTC) in Moshi, Tanzania, is a supra-regional training, research and clinical centre. It provides care to dermatological patients and training to medical Assistants and Clinical Officers.

The RDTC was founded in 1990 as a joint enterprise between the ILDS and the Tanzanian Ministry of Health, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), on land provided by the Good Samaritan Foundation.

To date, the RDTC has trained more than 290 graduates from 17 African countries in its Advanced Diploma in Dermato-Venerology (ADDV).