Medical Students’ Association of Rwanda (MEDSAR)

Medical Students’ Association of Rwanda (MEDSAR) is an independent, non-governmental and non-political organization of medical students of Rwanda. It was founded in 1997 and is running for and by medical students on a not-for-profit basis. It is officially recognized by the University of Rwanda as a non-governmental students’ organization (NGO). MEDSAR is recognized by the School of Medicine and Pharmacy. MEDSAR works under the umbrella of URSU (University of Rwanda Students Union), a general association of students at the University of Rwanda; and is a registered member of the International Federation of Medical Students Association (IFMSA). MEDSAR operates with the following objectives; To unite, defend and represent medical students in Rwanda To promote the science and the spirit of research among its members To initiate and participate in all programs which aim at promoting the living standards of Rwandan citizens To combat the solitude and development reluctance by promoting the collaboration and partnership of MEDSAR with other organizations in Rwanda and abroad for the interest of members and Health Promotion. The goal of the organization is to serve the society and medical students in Rwanda by: Empowering medical students in Rwanda using their knowledge capacities for the benefit of society. Providing a forum for medical students in Rwanda to discuss topics related to individual and community health, education, and science and to formulate policies from such discussions. Promoting and facilitating professional and scientific exchanges as well as projects and extracurricular training for medical students, thereby sensitizing them to other cultures and societies and their health problems. Providing a link between members, medical students’ associations, and local and international organizations, and to encourage the co-operation between them for the ultimate benefit of society.