The Health Departments at the University of Human Development (UHD) marked World Anaesthesia Day with a scientific panel titled ‘The Role of Anaesthesiologists in the Health Sector and New Technology in Anaesthesia’. The event took place at the Prof. Dr Ali Qaradaghi Hall on 19 October 2026.

Dr Star Ibrahim Kareem, Head of the Anaesthesia Techniques Department at UHD, chaired the panel. He introduced the speakers and provided a brief overview of the history of anaesthesia, noting that while the practice is ancient, it has advanced significantly during the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.

Dr Bakhan Muhammed Ahmed, a specialist in anaesthesia, explained that the procedure primarily consists of three phases. The first, and arguably most critical, is the initial assessment and evaluation of the patient's suitability for anaesthesia. The second phase involves closely monitoring the patient while they are unconscious under the effects of the medication. The final phase focuses on recovery, managing how quickly the patient wakes up and determining the necessary post-operative care.

Dr Emad Ahmed Hama-Hussein, a specialist in anaesthesia and university lecturer, discussed artificial intelligence (AI) and its evolving role in the field. He clarified that AI-driven technologies serve as vital assets that aid in identifying complications and recommending clinical actions. However, he emphasised that AI will never replace human anaesthesiologists. He stressed that anaesthesia ultimately relies on human-to-human interaction, requiring clinical judgment, empathetic care, and the ability to manage the unforeseen complications that can arise during surgery.

The audience was largely comprised of students from UHD’s four health departments—Medical Laboratory Sciences, Anaesthesia Techniques, Nursing, and Pharmacy—alongside lecturers from other academic departments. The panel concluded with an interactive Q&A and commentary session.