COSECSA

A professional body for surgeons in East, Central, and Southern Africa

Logo of the College of Surgeons of East, Central and Southern Africa

The College of Surgeons of East, Central and Southern Africa (COSECSA) is a professional body that fosters postgraduate education in surgery and provides surgical training throughout the East, Central, and Southern Africa region. COSECSA is dedicated to promoting the highest standards of surgical care and training in the region.

History

COSECSA was established in 1999 with the aim of advancing education, training, standards, research, and practice in surgical care. The college was formed to address the shortage of trained surgeons in the region and to improve the quality of surgical care available to the population.

Objectives

COSECSA's primary objectives include:

• Providing a structured training program for surgeons in the region.
• Conducting examinations and awarding qualifications to surgeons who meet the required standards.
• Promoting research and development in the field of surgery.
• Enhancing the quality of surgical care through continuous professional development.

Training Programs

COSECSA offers a variety of training programs designed to equip surgeons with the necessary skills and knowledge. These programs include:

• Membership in COSECSA (MCS): A program for junior surgeons to gain foundational skills.
• Fellowship in COSECSA (FCS): Advanced training for surgeons specializing in various fields such as general surgery, orthopedics, and pediatric surgery.

Examinations

The college conducts rigorous examinations to assess the competence of its trainees. These examinations are held annually and are a prerequisite for obtaining membership or fellowship in COSECSA.

Accreditation

COSECSA accredits hospitals and training centers across the region to ensure they meet the standards required for surgical training. This accreditation process is crucial for maintaining the quality of education and training provided.

Partnerships

COSECSA collaborates with various international and regional organizations to enhance its training programs and expand its reach. These partnerships help in resource sharing, capacity building, and improving surgical care standards.

Impact

Since its inception, COSECSA has significantly contributed to increasing the number of qualified surgeons in the region. The college has played a vital role in improving surgical outcomes and healthcare delivery in East, Central, and Southern Africa.

Related pages

• Surgery
• Medical education
• Healthcare in Africa