Global Outreach Travel Grant Reports

Following the award of the CEORL Global Outreach Travel Grant 2026, I had the privilege of attending the Congress of European ORL-HNS and subsequently undertaking a comprehensive observership at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at Uppsala University Hospital in Sweden. The observership provided an exceptional opportunity for advanced clinical exposure, academic exchange, and professional networking within one of Scandinavia’s highly organized tertiary academic healthcare systems.

The experience involved participation in operating theatre observations, multidisciplinary oncological discussions, outpatient clinics, day-care surgery systems, departmental academic meetings, and collaborative discussions regarding future institutional partnership.

Throughout the observership, I observed a wide range of advanced surgical procedures including Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), septoplasty, skull-base surgery, neck dissections, stapedectomy, inner ear tumor surgery, facial plastic procedures, and cross-facial nerve grafting. Particularly impactful was the opportunity to witness the integration of multidisciplinary care pathways involving ENT surgeons, neurosurgeons, radiologists, oncologists, pathologists, audiologists, and specialized nursing teams. 

The observership additionally facilitated important dialogue regarding future collaboration between Uppsala University Hospital and Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC) and KCMC University in Tanzania. Potential areas discussed included academic exchange, surgical mentorship, telemedicine-supported education, resident observerships, collaborative research, and long-term institutional partnership.

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 Photos taken in Uppsala University, AKADEMISKA SJUKHUSET

The experience was immensely enriching and provided numerous opportunities for my professional and academic growth. At the congress, I had the privilege to attended pre-congress courses and several insightful sessions and, gaining valuable knowledge that will undoubtedly enhance my work.

Additionally, I was able to network with leading experts and peers in my field, establishing connections that I believe will lead to future collaborations. The exposure to cutting-edge developments and innovative ideas has inspired me to pursue new directions in my field. This experience would not have been possible without this generous support.

I am deeply grateful for providing me with this significant opportunity. From arrival to departure from Ireland, was really unforgettable moments in my life.

During two weeks in the UK, I had an opportunity to observe Ear, Head- Neck and Rhinology surgery from June 21 to July 4. I would like to thank Professor Per Caye-Thomasen, President of CEORL-HNS, Mr. Mike C F Smith OBE FRCS Trustee of EAN, Consultant Surgeon, Wye Valley NHS Trust, Mr. Stephen Broomfield FRCS Trustee of EAN, Consultant Surgeon Bristol Royal Infirmary and Mr. Tom Martin FRCS Trustee of EAN, Consultant Surgeon, Worcester Royal Hospitals.