Excellence in medicine extends beyond academics; it is about innovation, service, and impact. Meetham bin Qasim Al-Lawati is a distinguished medical student at the
College of Medicine and Health Sciences. He has not only been recognised with the Excellence Award at the College and the Best Research Poster Award at the 73rd
IFMSA, but he has also dedicated himself to humanitarian medical missions in Africa.
Beyond these remarkable achievements, he also served as the president of the Siyaj Cancer Awareness Programme, a project that has significantly impacted the College of Medicine and Health Sciences. In this dialogue, we will explore his journey, the vision behind Siyaj, and the passion that drives his work.
First of all, we would like to congratulate you on your remarkable achievements. Can you share with us what these awards mean to you, particularly the Emirates Research Award at the EROC Global Forum 2025?
Thank you so much; it is an honour to be part of this dialogue. These awards mean a great deal to me, both personally and professionally. They serve as motivation for me to continue contributing to medical research.
What inspired you to pursue research alongside your medical studies, and how do you balance both?
I believe that research is a core pillar of medicine. Modern medical advancements would not have been possible without the dedication of doctors and researchers in the past and present. Balancing research with medical studies is certainly challenging, given the limited time we have as students. However, it all comes down to prioritisation—stepping out of our comfort zones and managing our time effectively.
How do you see research shaping your future career as a medical professional?
I aim to expand my research involvement after graduating, focusing on randomised clinical trials, drug development, and both prospective and retrospective studies. Research will always be a fundamental part of my career.
Can you tell us about the research that won you the Emirates Research Award? What was the key focus of your study?
Our research was about the outcomes of tracheostomy (a surgical procedure) in children. It identified the most common complications, rates and causes of deaths following the surgery, and suggested ways to reduce those complications and decrease rates of death.
What challenges did you face during this research, and how did you overcome them?
This research was particularly challenging because we had to analyse 10 years’ worth of hospital data, carefully selecting patients who met the study criteria. Each patient’s data review took between 1.5 to 2 hours, but with time, we became more efficient and completed the study. Persistence, practice, and continuous learning were key in overcoming these challenges.
How does your research contribute to the medical field, and do you see any real-world applications for your findings?
Our research is the first of its kind in Oman and the region, providing valuable insights into tracheostomy outcomes. These findings could help develop hospital guidelines and protocols to improve patient care.
How did it feel to present your work at EROC Global Forum 2025, and what were the most valuable takeaways from that experience?
Representing Oman at such a prestigious conference was a proud moment for me. The forum gathered global experts in ENT, allowing me to network with leading professionals and gain exposure to the latest advancements in the field.
Did you receive any memorable feedback from experts or peers at the forum that influenced your perspective?
Absolutely! The feedback I received was incredibly valuable. The experts provided insightful critiques and new perspectives, broadening my understanding of future research possibilities.
You have been actively involved in humanitarian medical trips to Africa—what motivated you to join these missions?
I strongly believe that “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” This belief is what led me to pursue medicine in the first place. I felt a responsibility and duty to participate in medical outreach programmes, helping those with no access to basic healthcare. These experiences reinforced my commitment to serving underserved communities.
How have these experiences influenced your outlook on global healthcare challenges?
They opened my eyes to the vast disparities in healthcare access worldwide. It became clear that much more needs to be done to improve healthcare quality, particularly for vulnerable populations. Advocacy and action are essential to making a difference.
As the president of the Siyaj Initiative, can you tell us about its goals and impact within the College of Medicine and Health Sciences?
Leading the Siyaj Cancer Awareness Programme was an incredibly rewarding experience. It enhanced my leadership skills and strengthened my belief in the initiative’s mission. Through Siyaj, we organised numerous awareness campaigns focused on preventive healthcare, emphasising the importance of a balanced diet and physical activity in cancer prevention. The programme had a strong impact on both students and the community.
How do you see Siyaj growing in the future, and what message would you like to share with students interested in similar initiatives?
I see Siyaj expanding with the help of its brilliant young members. I strongly encourage students to get involved in student-led initiatives—not only for personal growth but also to contribute meaningfully to society.
What has been the most defining moment in your journey so far?
Attending my first surgery in medical school was an unforgettable experience. At that moment, I knew that the operating room is where I belong. It strengthened my resolve to work hard and achieve my goal of becoming a chief surgeon one day.
What advice do you have for fellow medical students who aspire to excel in research and humanitarian work?
My advice is simple: step out of your comfort zone. Engage in as many research projects, student communities, and volunteer programmes as possible. Being a good doctor is not just about studying textbooks—it is about active participation in medical advancements and giving back to the community.
If anyone has questions or needs guidance, please feel free to reach out. It would be an honour to help!