العربية 
Sana’a – Under academic sponsorship and active participation from the University of Science and Technology (UST) in Sana’a, the International Dental Conference and Exhibition (IDEC) commenced today with wide participation from academics, physicians, experts, and specialists in oral and dental medicine across Yemen, alongside international dental experts. The event aims to keep pace with the latest scientific and technological developments and promote the exchange of expertise to advance professional practice and enhance the quality of healthcare services in the country.
During the opening ceremony, Prof. Ali Abdulkarim Shaiban, Minister of Public Health and Environment, delivered a speech in which he praised the efforts behind organizing the conference and exhibition. He emphasized that the field of dentistry is witnessing rapid development that requires continuous engagement with the latest technologies and treatment methods. He noted that Yemen has seen significant progress in medical education and health services despite the blockade and aggression, including the opening of several master’s and PhD programs in medical specialties—dentistry among them. He added that hospitals have achieved breakthroughs in performing major surgeries that previously required patients to travel abroad, proving that Yemenis are fully capable of achievement, creativity, and productivity when empowered with confidence in their abilities.
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s strong commitment to continuing medical education and its support for scientific conferences that contribute to improving the skills of health sector workers and enhancing the quality of services provided to citizens.
For his part, Prof. Al-Qasim Mohammed Abbas, President of UST and Chair of the Conference, highlighted the importance of this specialized scientific event. He stated that IDEC serves as a leading scientific platform that bridges academic and practical aspects, strengthens scientific research, and aligns medical education outcomes with healthcare needs.
Prof. Abbas added that UST is keen to support such conferences due to their crucial role in developing medical professionals and building sustainable academic and professional partnerships. He also noted that Yemeni universities—particularly UST—have enriched scientific research by offering comprehensive postgraduate programs in all specialties of oral and maxillofacial medicine and surgery. Since opening Yemen’s first dental college in 1994, the university has supplied local and regional markets with thousands of qualified professionals.
Speeches were also delivered by Dr. Khaled Al-Dhurai, Chair of the Scientific Committee; Dr. Nasr Al-Qadeemi, President of the Dental Association; and Mr. Naaman Al-Asbahi, Chair of the Organizing Committee. Their remarks collectively underscored the importance of the conference in fostering professional exchange among dentists and staying abreast of advancements in dental and oral surgery technologies.
The three-day IDEC Conference and Exhibition features a rich scientific program that includes lectures and specialized workshops delivered by experts and academics from Yemen and abroad. The accompanying exhibition showcases the latest devices, materials, and technologies in dentistry, with the participation of several Yemeni companies.
On the sidelines of the opening, Prof. Al-Qasim Mohammed Abbas visited the university’s booth, commending the outstanding efforts of the marketing, communications, and media teams in strengthening the university’s presence. He stressed the importance of continued teamwork to achieve the event’s goals.
The opening ceremony also included honoring the Minister of Public Health and Environment, the Conference Chair and Vice Chair, the Organizing Committee Chair, and participating lecturers.
The event was attended by Dr. Awfat Al-Bahri, Dean of the College of Dentistry at UST, along with several faculty members.
