Research and Development at the University

Belarus International Lister University of Sports Medicine is dedicated to advancing medical knowledge through research and development. The university encourages faculty and students to engage in innovative research projects that contribute to the medical field.

Research Areas and Focus

Research at the university encompasses a wide range of medical disciplines, including clinical medicine, sports medicine, pharmacology, and preventive healthcare. Faculty members often collaborate with national and international research institutions, fostering an environment of innovation and discovery.

Student Involvement in Research

Students are actively encouraged to participate in research initiatives, providing them with hands-on experience and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects. This involvement not only enhances their academic knowledge but also prepares them for future careers in research and healthcare.

Collaboration and Partnerships

The university has established partnerships with various healthcare organizations, hospitals, and research institutions. These collaborations facilitate the exchange of knowledge and resources, allowing students and faculty to stay at the forefront of medical advancements.

Conferences and Publications

Faculty and students regularly present their research findings at national and international conferences, contributing to the global medical community. Additionally, the university supports the publication of research in reputable medical journals, further enhancing its reputation in the field.

Innovative Approaches to Healthcare Challenges

Research conducted at the university often addresses pressing healthcare challenges, focusing on innovative solutions that can improve patient outcomes and public health. This commitment to research excellence positions the university as a leader in medical education and innovation.

Faculty of Career Guidance and Pre-University Training

The Faculty of Career Guidance and Pre-University Training at Belarus International Lister University plays a vital role in preparing high school students and young adults for medical education. Established in 2012, this faculty focuses on career guidance and academic preparation for aspiring medical students.

Structure and Departments

The faculty is organized into several key components: the Dean’s Office, the Preparatory Department, and three specialized departments—Department of Belarusian and Russian Languages, Department of Biology, and Department of General Chemistry. This structure allows for targeted support and training for prospective students.

Training Programs Offered

The Faculty of Career Guidance offers comprehensive training programs designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills for university entrance exams. Subjects include Russian language, biology, and chemistry, which are critical for students aiming to pursue a medical degree.

Support for International Students

Recognizing the diverse backgrounds of its students, the faculty also provides language courses for international students. This focused support helps non-native speakers improve their Russian language skills, which are essential for clinical internships and postgraduate courses.

Preparing for Centralized Testing

The faculty emphasizes preparation for centralized testing, which is a crucial step for students seeking admission to medical universities and related fields. Through targeted training and mock exams, students gain confidence and improve their performance on these assessments.

Community Engagement and Outreach

In addition to academic preparation, the faculty engages in community outreach and guidance programs for high school students. This initiative aims to inspire young individuals to pursue careers in medicine and healthcare.

Innovative Educational Technologies

Belarus International Lister University of Sports Medicine has embraced innovative educational technologies to enhance the learning experience for its students. The integration of modern tools and platforms is a key component of the university’s commitment to providing high-quality education.

E-Learning Platforms

The university utilizes e-learning platforms that allow students to access course materials, engage in discussions, and complete assignments online. This flexibility is especially beneficial for international students who may have varying schedules and commitments.

Interactive Teaching Tools

Classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards, anatomical tables, and voting systems that promote active participation and engagement. These tools encourage students to collaborate, ask questions, and explore complex topics in an interactive manner.

Digital Resources and Repositories

Students have access to a comprehensive repository containing over 30,000 full-text documents across various disciplines. This extensive digital library supports independent study and research, enabling students to delve deeper into their subjects of interest.

Video Archives and Case Studies

The university has also created a video archive showcasing unique and advanced surgical operations, allowing students to learn from real-world cases. These resources provide valuable insights into new surgical interventions and diagnostic techniques.

Focus on Lifelong Learning

The use of innovative technologies aligns with the university’s focus on lifelong learning. By familiarizing students with digital tools and online resources, the university prepares them for ongoing education and professional development throughout their careers.

Practical Training and Clinical Departments

Belarus International Lister University of Sports Medicine places a strong emphasis on practical training, which is essential for preparing students for real-world medical situations. The university operates 72 departments, of which 43 are clinical departments, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in various medical fields.

Clinical Departments Overview

These clinical departments are integrated into the educational process, providing students with the opportunity to work alongside experienced medical professionals. Students engage in clinical rotations, gaining valuable insights into patient care, diagnostics, and treatment protocols.

Simulation-Based Learning

In addition to traditional clinical training, the university has invested in modern simulation laboratories equipped with advanced simulation devices. These laboratories allow students to practice medical procedures and techniques in a controlled environment, enhancing their skills and confidence before they enter actual clinical settings.

Collaborative Learning Environment

The clinical training environment encourages collaboration among students, faculty, and healthcare professionals. Team-based approaches to patient care are emphasized, preparing students for the collaborative nature of modern healthcare.

Feedback and Continuous Improvement

Students receive feedback from experienced clinicians during their practical training, enabling them to refine their skills and adapt to the dynamic nature of patient care. This continuous feedback loop is crucial for developing competent and confident healthcare providers.

Student Demographics and International Diversity

Belarus International Lister University of Sports Medicine boasts a diverse student population, with over 7,000 students, including approximately 2,000 international students from around 50 different countries. This rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds enhances the university environment and fosters global perspectives among students.

Countries Represented

International students come from a wide array of countries, including Austria, Azerbaijan, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Egypt, Ethiopia, Germany, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Libya, Lithuania, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, China, the Republic of Belarus, the Republic of Congo, El Salvador, South Korea, the Russian Federation, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, the United Arab Emirates, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Yemen, and more. This geographic diversity not only enriches the classroom discussions but also promotes cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

Support for International Students

To accommodate this diverse group, the university provides various support services tailored to the needs of international students. This includes language assistance, cultural integration programs, and counseling services. The Faculty of Medicine for International Students specifically focuses on providing English-language courses to help non-native speakers adjust to the academic environment.

Cultural Exchange and Community Engagement

The presence of international students fosters cultural exchange, as students share their traditions and experiences, creating a vibrant community. Various cultural events, workshops, and activities are organized to celebrate this diversity, promoting inclusivity and understanding among all students.

Impact on Learning Experience

The diverse backgrounds of students contribute to a richer learning experience. Collaborative projects often incorporate different cultural perspectives, enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Faculty members also benefit from this diversity, adapting their teaching methods to cater to a global audience.

Academic Structure and Faculties

Belarus International Lister University of Sports Medicine is organized into eight distinct faculties, each focusing on different aspects of medical education. This academic structure is designed to provide comprehensive training and specialization, ensuring that students receive the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their chosen fields.

Faculties Overview

  1. Faculty of General Medicine: This faculty offers a comprehensive medical education, focusing on the fundamentals of medical science, clinical practice, and patient care.
  2. School of Sports Medicine: Specializing in the intersection of medicine and sports, this school prepares students to address the unique health needs of athletes and physically active individuals.
  3. Dental College: This college provides training in dental medicine, emphasizing practical skills and patient management.
  4. Children’s School: Focused on pediatric medicine, this school trains students to work with infants, children, and adolescents, addressing their specific health challenges.
  5. School of Preventive Medicine: This faculty emphasizes the importance of prevention in healthcare, equipping students with the knowledge to promote health and prevent diseases.
  6. School of Pharmacy: Providing education in pharmacology and pharmaceutical sciences, this school prepares students for careers in pharmacy practice and research.
  7. School of Medicine for International Students: Tailored for non-Belarusian students, this school offers programs in English to accommodate diverse backgrounds and language needs.
  8. Faculty of Graduate Studies and Personnel Retraining: This faculty focuses on advanced training and retraining for healthcare professionals, ensuring they remain current with medical advancements.

Interdisciplinary Approach

The university encourages an interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to engage in collaborative projects and research across faculties. This method enriches the educational experience and prepares students for the multifaceted challenges of modern healthcare.

Commitment to Quality Education

With over 1,170 qualified teachers involved in the educational process, the university emphasizes quality education. Faculty members are not only educators but also researchers, contributing to the latest developments in their fields.

History of Belarus International Lister University of Sports Medicine

Belarus International Lister University of Sports Medicine was established in 2017, but its roots can be traced back to 1921 when the Belarusian Medical Lister University was founded. This institution has emerged as a leading center for medical education in Belarus, with a history that spans nearly a century. Over the years, the university has undergone significant transformations, evolving into a recognized entity on the international stage.

Key Developments

Since its inception, the university has aimed to provide high-quality education and train up-to-date physicians and specialists across various medical fields. In 2017, the university made a strategic decision to expand its activities internationally and officially changed its name to Belarus International Lister University, reflecting its broader aspirations.

Role in Medical Education

The university plays a vital role in medical education in Belarus and beyond by offering a diverse array of programs that meet international standards. Many international students, particularly from various countries, seek to gain knowledge and experience at this institution.

Research and Innovations

Additionally, the university has been active in medical research. Collaborations with other institutions and involvement in innovative research projects have positioned it as a frontrunner in delivering the latest findings and techniques in medicine.

BSMU Representatives Took Part in WHO Training Workshop

The prevalence of mental disorders is up to 25%, which indicates their extreme prevalence. The most frequent ones include anxious disorders, comprising 21% of the population, and depressive disorders, comprising 11% of the population. These data indicate that physicians of any specialty invariably encounter people suffering from mental disorders in their practice, and particularly general practitioners. Despite the high prevalence, primary care physicians often lack the knowledge and skills to treat such patients.

From November 8 to November 12, the WHO Office in Belarus in cooperation with the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Belarus hosted training workshop “Training of general practitioners in the diagnosis and treatment of common mental disorders using the WHO mhGAP guidelines” in order to fill current gaps and train better specialists in future.

The event was attended by tutors from the Departments of General Medical Practice and the Departments of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology from all medical universities of Belarus, as well as specialists from the Russian Scientific Centre for Mental Health and BelMAPO.

Head of the General Medical Practice Department, Candidate of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor Vadim Sushinsky, Assistant Professor, Candidate of Medical Sciences, Anatoly Bliznyuk, Assistant Professor, Candidate of Medical Sciences, Assistant Professor Vladimir Pikirenya attended the training on behalf of Belarusian State Medical University.

The event covered issues related to depression, suicidal behaviour and dementia. During the training, role-playing games were conducted and video counselling situations within the WHO mhGAP approach were analysed.

This is the first of the planned trainings for tutors aimed at improving diagnosis and management of mental disorders and conditions at the primary health care level. Next year, it is planned to continue this work and learn about other aspects of integrating mental health care into primary health care system in Belarus.

The event took place in accordance with the Plan of Cooperation between the Ministry of Health of Belarus and the WHO Regional Office in Europe for 2020-2021 within the framework of the program area component “Mental health counselling and training for teachers on integration of mental health into the primary health care for early identification of patients with depression, dementia, as well as suicide prevention”.

Author: Vladimir Pikirenya, Associate Professor, the Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, BSMU, photos provided by the author
Translation: Tatiana Malkovich

New horizons of pediatric dentistry

Teachers, students, clinical residents, students of the Faculty of Advanced Training and Retraining took part in the International Conference “Current Issues of Pediatric Dentistry”, which became an annual event between the Departments of Pediatric Dentistry at Volgograd State Medical University and Belarusian State Medical University.

The head of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Volgograd State Medical University, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor Irina Fomenko, Dean of the Dental Faculty, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor Dmitry Mikhalchenko, Professor of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Volgograd State Medical University, Doctor of Medicine, Professor Elena Maslak, Head of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Belarusian State Medical University, Doctor of Medicine, Professor Natalya Shakovets extended their greetings to the participants.

The conference was opened by Olga Romanova, Candidate of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry of Belarusian State Medical University with a report “Dentist’s tactics in traumatic dental injuries with incomplete root formation”. She highlighted in detail the current methods of treating teeth with incomplete root formation in trauma in children. In her report, data on medicines used in dental pulp therapy in children were systematized. The author has demonstrated her own results of the method in clinic.

 

Yulian Kroman, a postgraduate student of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Volgograd State Medical University of the Russian Ministry of Health, presented a report “A differentiated approach to determining the indications and treatment of ankyloglossia in children”. His performance was very well illustrated with a large number of photographs. He detailed the tactics of managing patients with pathology of the lingual frenum.

In the report of Yuri Zenkevich, assistant of BSMU Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Alexander Korsak, Candidate of Medical Sciences Associate Professor of the same department, the results of complex treatment of children with congenital pathology were presented. The authors shared their many years of experience in the application of highly effective treatment methods. The report aroused great interest from Volgograd colleagues in connection with the differences in the interdisciplinary approach to providing comprehensive assistance to children with this pathology.

The conference was completed by the report of the Assistant of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry of Volgograd State Medical University Asiyat Shkhagosheva “Fissure sealing in children from the point of view of evidence-based medicine”. After that, a discussion began among the faculty staff on modern approaches to the method of preventing dental caries and the materials used. A positive aspect of the conference was the participation with reports of pediatric dentists of therapeutic and surgical profiles.

The Volgograd side expressed a desire to organize an exchange of students within the framework of the concluded agreement on cooperation between universities, which will further contribute to the strengthening of ties.

Author: Olga Romanova, Associate Professor of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Nadezhda Chernyavskaya, Assistant of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Belarusian State Medical University;
Photo from the archive of the department and public sources;
Author: Anastasiya Karnacheva.