Surgical mentor – hospital-based, in Ethiopia

Introduction

The ESVS is looking for someone to train vascular surgeons in a University Hospital in in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for a two-week period in 2025/2026. Flights and accommodation will be covered by ESVS.

The project

Run for Progress – ESVS Mission ‘Ethiopia’

Thanks to the generosity and commitment of our supporters, we have raised just over EUR 5,000 through the Annual Meeting charity run in Krakow in 2024 – enough to send one expert vascular surgeon to the Tikur Anbessa (Black Lion) University Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for 2 weeks.

This hospital, serving a nation of 123 million people (including 5.4 million in Addis Ababa), has only three vascular surgery consultants and 5–6 residents. The impact of limited access to specialised vascular care in a developing country is profound, but together, we can change that.

With the funds raised, we will:

  • Cover flights and accommodation for one ESVS vascular surgeon to travel to Addis Ababa (food, daily expenses and local transport to be covered by the individual).
  • Enable them to mentor and train local healthcare professionals on essential procedures in complex aortic aneurysm repair, building sustainable vascular care capacity.

If you’re passionate about sharing your expertise to make a global difference, this mission is your opportunity to empower local vascular surgeons and leave a lasting legacy of health and hope.

What to expect when you’re there:

Placement Details: 

Dates: 2025 /2026 To be arranged collaboratively between the selected surgeon and Tikur Anbessa University Hospital.

On-the-Ground Conditions

  • Living Conditions: Prepare for austere conditions. Running water may be intermittent, and resources like CT imaging and graft materials are limited. Most blood transfusions rely on autotransfusion or donations from relatives. However, the hospital features a fully functioning general and cardiac/vascular ICU.
  • Surgical Equipment: High-quality vascular instruments donated from Sweden are available. Graft materials are scarce and the department relies heavily on donated grafts. Basic diagnostic angiography can be performed.
  • Connectivity: Internet access is unreliable. It’s best to purchase an Ethiopian SIM card for affordable and reliable 4G access.

A Typical Day

  • Morning Routine: Begin with pre-rounds at 8 a.m., followed by a teaching session until 9 a.m.
  • Clinical Work: On operating days, you’ll proceed to the OR after rounds. Non-operating days include outpatient clinics and mentoring activities.
  • Teaching: Share your expertise by teaching at the university, guiding young Ethiopian vascular surgeons in various procedures, including complex open aortic aneurysm repairs.

Logistics

  • Cultural Experiences: Explore Addis Ababa’s vibrant culture. Visit scenic spots like Entoto Park, experience the famous Ethiopian coffee ceremony, savour the cuisine, and tour the city’s museums.
  • Accommodation: Stay at the Sheraton Hotel, a 4-star hotel offering comfort and convenience in the heart of Addis Ababa. It is a 10-minute taxi ride to the hospital
  • Trip Facilitation: Matthew Spreadbury, EVST Councillor, will provide logistical and professional support, ensuring seamless coordination with the Department of Vascular Surgery at Tikur Anbessa

An Opportunity to make a lasting impact. This is more than just a volunteer experience; it’s a chance to train the next generation of Ethiopian vascular surgeons, empowering them with critical skills to perform life-saving procedures and improve vascular care for years to come.

What is expected from you:

To ensure the success of the mission and alignment with its objectives, applicants will be assessed against the following criteria:

Essential Criteria

    1. Visa and Availability: Ability to secure a visa for Ethiopia and availability to commit to a 2-week mission.
    2. Membership: Active ESVS membership.
    3. Surgical Expertise: Experience in complex open aortic surgery
    4. Professional Experience: Minimum of 5 years post-residency in vascular surgery.
    5. Teaching Skills: Prior experience in mentoring or teaching, preferably in clinical or academic settings.
    6. Documentation: Submission of the following: Medical school certificate and proof of completion of vascular surgery residency, CV and short motivation letter 
    7. Alignment with ESVS Values: Adherence to the ESVS vision, mission, and procedures. 
    8. Voluntary Commitment: Willingness to participate on a voluntary basis.

    Advantageous Criteria

    1. Humanitarian Experience: Prior involvement in humanitarian or international surgical missions.
    2. Language Skills: Fluency in English.
    3. ESVS Engagement: Previous participation in ESVS initiatives, events, or projects.

    Timeline:

    • Deadline for applications: 31st March
    • Shortlisting to take place by 16th of April
    • Interviews to take place: end of April
    • Placement date – to be decided between the surgeon, Matthew Spreadbury and the hospital.

    How to apply

    • Fill out the form
    • Attach your documents
    • We will come back to you with an interview date
    • After your placement, you will be required to submit a report of your experiences.

     The ESVS is an inclusive organisation, which values and seeks out a diverse membership pool, promotes inclusion among members. We embrace all differences and foster respect and a sense of belonging. We believe that diversity enriches our perspectives, improves our performance and makes everyone feel safe and valued.

    Surgical Mentor - Ethiopia Hospital

    Surgical mentor - Ethiopia hospital

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