Medical students from Kenya encouraged by specialization possibilities during elective

Medical students Faith Kiprop and Ubah Bishar spent the last of the summer weeks learning about specialities within obstetrics and gynaecology, which broadened their idea of careers as future physicians.

The six-week elective, which finished in mid-October, was made possible by the AMPATH-U of T partnership, a global health initiative that aims to improve reproductive health in Western Kenya through knowledge transfer with that country’s physicians. The two students are from Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya.

“Faith and Ubah brought so much energy and enthusiasm to their elective,” says Allan Kember, an assistant professor and one of the student’s instructors. “They eagerly took advantage of the learning opportunities not readily available to them back home, such as new prenatal screening techniques, and were active participants in patient care and deliveries. I expect they have many successes ahead of them, both in their studies in Kenya and careers afterwards.”

We caught up with Bishar and Kiprop to ask about highlights of their time in Toronto.

What were some of the highlights of your medical learning during the six weeks?

Kiprop:

The seminars were particularly memorable, small groups that allowed for interactive discussions and personalized attention. The instructors were patient and encouraging, guiding our thought processes even when our answers weren’t completely right. They might say something like “You’re thinking in the right direction,” helping us reason through problems with confidence.

One major highlight was the Twins Clinic with Dr. Nir Melamed, who took time to explain complex management concepts using flowcharts and case discussions. Also, I spent time in the Genetics Clinic with Dr. Ori Nevo and the radiology team, where I learned about prenatal genetic screening and diagnostics, gained exposure to techniques such as NIPT, and learned to interpret ultrasound findings more confidently.

At Mount Sinai, my time in the Fertility Clinic was absolutely fascinating, as it is not covered in great depth during medical school in Kenya. I asked so many questions about the different methods of assisted reproduction, including artificial fertilization and related procedure, that Dr. Jennia Michaeli asked if I was considering a career in fertility! Another unforgettable experience was working with Dr. Olga Bougie, whom I fondly refer to as the “Queen of Endometriosis.” Through her clinic, I gained insight into managing complex gynaecologic conditions and providing holistic, compassionate care, especially for patients living with pain or emotional distress.

Bishar:

I truly appreciated the strong emphasis on patient confidentiality and the exemplary teamwork throughout the rotations.

I really enjoyed the ob-gyn clinic, where the well-planned monitoring of pregnancy was clearly and thoughtfully articulated. I was also able to learn and assist with deliveries, thanks to the support of the staff, especially Drs. Stephen Im, Rachel Spitzer, and Bunmi Adesanya. My clerkship at Mount Sinai Hospital and St. Michael’s Hospital was both fun and enriching, and the guidance from the chief residents, Drs. Yannay Khaikin and Mary Boulos, as well as Dr. Rawan Aljumah, helped me immensely in Labour and Delivery.

I can’t forget the medical students! They helped me navigate the hospitals and gave me support throughout.

What’s one thing that will stay with you as you continue your career?

Kiprop:

My experience showed me that specialization can extend far beyond traditional boundaries. Many of the fellows not only were specialists but had subspecializations: some in genetics, others in twin and multiple gestation care, diabetes management, or fertility medicine.

I now have a broader understanding of what it means to be a physician. It inspired me to consider pursuing a subspecialty that truly excites me. I remember meeting Dr. Kember, who had an engineering background before studying medicine. He was developing a surgical tool designed to assist during caesarean sections, a brilliant example of how combining two fields can lead to innovation in health care. Seeing this kind of creativity and interdisciplinary thinking made me realize how valuable additional skills and perspectives can be.

Bishar:

This experience has significantly expanded my knowledge in obstetrics and gynaecology, particularly in the surgical aspects. Observing laparoscopic salpingectomies and assisting in several surgeries was a mind-blowing experience that I will carry with me as I continue my studies and shape my future career path.

How did you find Toronto as a city?

Kiprop:

Toronto completely stole my heart! What struck me most was how picturesque it was. The skyline, the lights, the clean streets, it all felt like something out of a postcard. Memorable excursions include the Toronto Exhibition, such a fun and chaotic burst of cultures, food, and colour. Let’s just say fried melon and ice cream with chicken is something I’ll never forget.

The waterfront, one of my absolute favourites, and another unexpected highlight was attending a children’s orchestra. Oh yes—and the Blue Jays game, what an experience! The energy in the stadium was electric. We even met the cheerleaders, who took photos with us and taught us their signature pose. I almost caught a ball! It was just so much fun!

Many many thanks to Dr. Rachel Spitzer, Dr. Allan Kember and his family, Dr. Mia Kibel, and Joseph George — honestly, he was our Toronto hero.

Bishar:

Toronto is a beautiful city full of people from different parts of the world. This was my first time traveling outside Kenya, making the experience even more memorable. I am grateful to have seen Niagara Falls and enjoyed events like the CNE festival. Dinners at the Kembers and with Dr. Spitzer were wonderful, and the Eaton Centre quickly became a favorite spot. 

Special thanks to Joe George, who made our journey seamless, took us to many places, and captured amazing photos along the way. Experiencing a Blue Jays game was also a fantastic new experience.