The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Concepción in Chile celebrated the beginning of its centennial year with the inauguration of the first of 100 planned activities. The event was attended by health, university, and academic authorities, as well as civil servant community members. The activity took place on January 8 at the Dr. Ivar Hermansen P. auditorium and brought together over a hundred guests.
Speakers at the event included the Rector of the University of Concepción, Dr. Carlos Saavedra Rubilar, the Vice-Rector, and former deans of the Faculty of Medicine. Dr. Laura Benedetti Reiman, a professor and director of the Regional History Research Program, gave a presentation on the history of Medicine in Concepción over the past 100 years.
Dr. Alejandra Ceballos Morales, the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, highlighted the importance of the centennial celebration as a result of months of hard work and expressed hope for growth and opportunities in the coming year.
Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Ana María Moraga, described 10 chapters of the last 100 years and emphasized the importance of understanding history in order to prepare for future challenges. She also outlined the Faculty’s Strategic Plan and discussed the priorities and challenges for the future, such as incorporating new technologies and emphasizing the well-being of the community and the training of students.
The celebration included an invitation to participate in the 100 activities planned for 2024, as well as the announcement of 15 summer schools. A video summary of the centenary was also shared with attendees.
The Rector of the University of Concepción congratulated the faculty on the centennial milestone and emphasized the potential for the Faculty of Medicine to improve the quality of life for Chileans. The Minister of Health also acknowledged the importance of the institution in the development of public health and expressed support for its initiatives and policies.