[hurrytimer id=”20824″]
ABOUT TAUCOM CONFERENCE
Texila American University International Conference hosted its first conference in 2018, at the University Campus Providence under the theme ‘Enriching the Caribbean Medical Education through Research’. The conference helped medical students to broaden their knowledge and have a better understanding of internationally accepted concepts and practices. A Second Conference was held in 2019, NCD–Current Scenario and Future Perspectives to help engage the international health care providers, educators and researchers who share our common goal of improving health care facilities and overall wellbeing for all populations. The two-day event was attended by regional and international professors, practicing surgeons, students and medical professionals. The conference witnessed an overwhelming response alongside incessant enthusiasm and support from our faculty and students.
We have organized our 3rd international conference on 22nd and 23rd April, 2021 with the theme “NCD: Mental Health and Road Traffic Accidents-Current Scenario and Future Perspective. This conference was held virtually over two (2) days and was intended to create awareness among healthcare providers, consumers, and stakeholders on the pervasiveness of NCD: Mental Health and Road Traffic Accidents in the Caribbean region.
Following up on the same, we are organizing our 4th international conference under the theme “Communicable Diseases in Caribbean: Regional update and Recent Advances”. Communicable disease is a major public health problem globally as well as in the Caribbean region. This conference is intended to create awareness among healthcare providers, consumers and stake holders on pervasiveness of communicable diseases and its social and financial burden to the community. The conference includes participation by the experts from all over the world to discuss the impact of communicable diseases and to find evidence-based solution for effective control of these diseases. The conference will be held over a period of two (2) days with various scientific sessions, panel discussions and dynamic poster presentations.
SCIENTIFIC SESSIONS
12th December
Session 1 - Forenoon
Plenary Session
12th December
Session 2 - Afternoon
Vector Borne Disease
13th December
Session 2 - Forenoon
TB and HIV
13th December
Session 4 - Afternoon
Neglected Communicable Diseases and Social Impact on Community.
REGISTRATION FORM
GUIDELINES FOR SUBMISSION OF ABSTRACT
- Scientific Papers are invited on the topics of Communicable diseases (including Malaria, Dengue, Yellow fever, TB, HIV, STDs, Filaria, COVID-19, Leprosy) and their various aspects such as prevention, vaccination, recent advances in treatment, financial burden, social and mental impact for oral presentation, poster presentation & publication in the conference edition of Texila medical journal.
- Abstract for oral/poster presentation should not exceed 300 words excluding title of the abstract, name(s) of author(s) and complete address. The name of the presenting author should be underlined. At least one of the authors should be registered before the last date for registration. Abstracts without one of the authors registering will not be published in the Texila E-Journal/ book of abstracts.
- If you are sharing a research study, investigation or inquiry, please use the following format for submission of abstracts:
- Purpose of study
- Methodology
- Results
- Conclusion
- Top ranking scientific papers will be selected for oral presentation in each session.
- The topic for paper presentation should be relevant to theme of the conference
- The time allotted for presentation will be 10 minutes (7 minutes for presentation and 3 minutes for discussion)
- International delegates who are unable to attend can send their posters in prescribed format for display.
Bank of Baroda (Guyana) Limited – TAU GY INC Main a/c
A/c no: 95410200000695
Name: Texila American University Inc
Bank Name: Bank of Baroda (Guyana) Inc
Branch: Georgetown
Swift Code: BARBGYGE
Bank Address: Bank of Baroda (Guyana) Inc
10, Avenue of Republic Road
Regent Street, Georgetown
Guyana.
Beneficiary address:
Texila American University Inc
Lot 2442, Plantation providence
East Bank Demerara
Intermediary Bank:
Bank of Baroda (New York)
One Park Avenue
New York, NY 10016, USA
Swift Code: BARBUS33
Routing Number: 026005322
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Dr. MD Nurunnabi
PhD.
Postdoctoral Fellow, Harvard University,
Assistant Professor, University of Texas, El Paso, TX
Dr. MD Nurunnabi, PhD.,
Postdoctoral Fellow in Bioengineering, Harvard University, MA & Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX
Biography:
Dr. Nurunnabi is currently working as a tenure track faculty position at the University of Texas El Paso (UTEP) from fall 2019. Prior to UTEP, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University. He brings to UTEP a research and teaching background in bioengineering, biomaterials, and drug delivery.
His research interest lies between diseases detection and delivery science using advanced bioinspired and bioengineering approaches, and the ongoing projects are sponsored by various agencies including federal, state, foundation, and industry. His laboratory thrives to develop tools and technology to advance therapeutic outcomes for various chronic diseases including diabetes, obesity, cancer, scleroderma, and fibrosis. He has published around 100 articles and book chapters, edited 2 books, and invested in 20 patents filed in USA. Over the decades, he has contributed to founding biomedical start-ups- KB BioMed Inc. in South Korea, and DunaTech LLC in Texas as co-founder.
Currently he is serving as Chair of Bioengineering focus group of Controlled Release Society and is in editorial advisory board for ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering, and ASC Applied Biomaterials. For details of his research, please visit www.utep.edu/NabiLab
Dr. Rahul Kamble
MBBS., MD.
AlumnusUNSW, Australia
Project Lead – Americares India Foundation, India
Dr. Rahul Kamble, MBBS., MD.
Diploma Infectious Diseases (UNSW, Australia) Project Lead – Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) at Americares India Foundation, India.
Biography:
Dr. Rahul Kamble is a highly accomplished professional currently serving as the Project Lead – Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) at Americares India Foundation. With over a decade of experience in the fields of Clinical Microbiology and Infection Control, Dr. Kamble has established himself as an expert in these domains.
Dr. Kamble holds a postgraduate degree in Clinical Microbiology and has pursued additional specialized training to enhance his expertise. He completed an Infection Control course from Harvard Medical School in the United States, obtained an Infectious Diseases Diploma from the University of New South Wales in Australia, and completed an international course in Vaccinology & Tropical Medicine from CMC Vellore in India.
Currently, Dr. Rahul Kamble is leading a significant project focused on capacity building in 11 hospitals across India for Infection Control and Antimicrobial Stewardship.
He has actively contributed to renowned Antimicrobial Stewardship programs in some of the best hospitals in India, including Lilavati Hospital, Hinduja Hospital, and Asian Heart Hospital in Mumbai. Dr. Kamble’s contributions extend beyond his practical expertise.
He has authored 18 publications in esteemed journals and has served as a reviewer for over 50 manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals, showcasing his commitment to advancing research and knowledge in his field. Furthermore,
Dr. Rahul Kamble has proven himself as an auditor and assessor for various quality management systems. He is certified as a JCI (Joint Commission International) and NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) auditor, a NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers) assessor, a CSSD (Central Sterile Supply Department) auditor, and a Ramkrishna Bajaj Quality Award auditor.
Dr. Kamble’s passion for quality management is reflected in his attainment of 11 healthcare-related diplomas, including the prestigious Six Sigma Black Belt. With his extensive knowledge, experience, and diverse skill set, Dr. Rahul Kamble continues to make significant contributions to the fields of Clinical Microbiology, Infection Control, and Antimicrobial Stewardship, positively impacting healthcare practices and patient outcomes in India.
Dr. Pravin D. Potdar
PhD.
EX-Head & Chief of Department Molecular Medicine and Biology,
Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
Dr. Pravin D. Potdar, PhD.
EX-Head & Chief of Department Molecular Medicine and Biology, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
Biography:
Dr. Potdar currently working has a professor & “Chairman” of the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) for Research and Development at Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Education & Research Centre, Mumbai. India. Earlier he worked as a Scientist at the “M.D. Anderson Cancer Centre, Houston, Texas, USA” for almost 3 years.
He completed his Ph.D. from Tata Memorial Centre Mumbai, India, in 1991 and worked in the area of cancer research for more than 35 years. He is a pioneer scientist in the field of cancer research & stem cell research.
In June 2017, he completed 12 years of successful tenure as the Head and Chief of the Department of Molecular Medicine & Biology at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre, Mumbai, India. At Jaslok, he established a Molecular Diagnostics and Stem Cell Research laboratory and carried out various Research Programs in the field of cancer research, Neurological & genetic disorders, infectious diseases, Diabetic Mellitus, etc. Moreover, at Jaslok, he has developed several innovative technologies which can help to diagnose and treat various cancers.
His laboratory became a reference laboratory for several doctoral & post-doctoral students who wish to learn better technology in these fields from all over India & abroad.
He has published almost 100 research papers in the field of cancer research and stem cell research in well-known International Medical Journals and trained more than 1000 students all over India & abroad in this field of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Biology.
He is a recipient of the prestigious “National Institute of Health” (NIH), USA award and also a Founder Member & Ex- Vice President of “The Molecular Pathology Association of India (MPAI). Due to excellent work in the field of Cancer & Stem Cells, his name is included in Marquis’s “Who’s Who in World” Book in 2012. In the year 2015, he invited as a member of a delegation to visit Italian Universities working in the fields of Biotechnology, Cancer Genomics, Stem Cell Research, and Regenerative Medicine by Indo- Indo-Italian Chamber of Commerce (IICC), Mumbai, India.
He has been appointed as an Editorial Board Member & Reviewer for many National and International Journals.
Dr. Quacy A. Grant
(Dr.) MD, MPM, MA.
National TB Programme,
Ministry of Health, Guyana
Dr. Quacy A. Grant (Dr.) MD, MPM, MA (Christian Min), MPH.
National TB Programme, Ministry of Health-Guyana Caribbean Field Epidemiology and Lab Training Prog Level II Graduate
Biography:
Upon obtaining his medical degree at the Camaguey Medical University-Cuba in 2012, Dr Grant served as a medical officer at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and the Mahdia District Hospital (Region 8), also serving as acting Regional Health Officer there. He headed the national malaria programme for three years within the Ministry of Health (Vector Control Services) and is now attached as a medical officer at the national TB programme (TB/HIV Coordinator). He also holds a Masters in Project Management from the University of International Cooperation in Costa Rica and he is currently pursuing his Master’s in Public Health at the University of Guyana.
Dr. MD Nurunnabi, PhD.,
Postdoctoral Fellow in Bioengineering, Harvard University, MA & Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX
Biography:
Dr. Nurunnabi is currently working as a tenure track faculty position at the University of Texas El Paso (UTEP) from fall 2019. Prior to UTEP, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University. He brings to UTEP a research and teaching background in bioengineering, biomaterials, and drug delivery.
His research interest lies between diseases detection and delivery science using advanced bioinspired and bioengineering approaches, and the ongoing projects are sponsored by various agencies including federal, state, foundation, and industry. His laboratory thrives to develop tools and technology to advance therapeutic outcomes for various chronic diseases including diabetes, obesity, cancer, scleroderma, and fibrosis. He has published around 100 articles and book chapters, edited 2 books, and invested in 20 patents filed in USA. Over the decades, he has contributed to founding biomedical start-ups- KB BioMed Inc. in South Korea, and DunaTech LLC in Texas as co-founder.
Currently he is serving as Chair of Bioengineering focus group of Controlled Release Society and is in editorial advisory board for ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering, and ASC Applied Biomaterials. For details of his research, please visit www.utep.edu/NabiLab
Dr. Rahul Kamble, MBBS., MD.
Diploma Infectious Diseases (UNSW, Australia) Project Lead – Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) at Americares India Foundation, India.
Biography:
Dr. Rahul Kamble is a highly accomplished professional currently serving as the Project Lead – Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) at Americares India Foundation. With over a decade of experience in the fields of Clinical Microbiology and Infection Control, Dr. Kamble has established himself as an expert in these domains.
Dr. Kamble holds a postgraduate degree in Clinical Microbiology and has pursued additional specialized training to enhance his expertise. He completed an Infection Control course from Harvard Medical School in the United States, obtained an Infectious Diseases Diploma from the University of New South Wales in Australia, and completed an international course in Vaccinology & Tropical Medicine from CMC Vellore in India.
Currently, Dr. Rahul Kamble is leading a significant project focused on capacity building in 11 hospitals across India for Infection Control and Antimicrobial Stewardship.
He has actively contributed to renowned Antimicrobial Stewardship programs in some of the best hospitals in India, including Lilavati Hospital, Hinduja Hospital, and Asian Heart Hospital in Mumbai. Dr. Kamble’s contributions extend beyond his practical expertise.
He has authored 18 publications in esteemed journals and has served as a reviewer for over 50 manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals, showcasing his commitment to advancing research and knowledge in his field. Furthermore,
Dr. Rahul Kamble has proven himself as an auditor and assessor for various quality management systems. He is certified as a JCI (Joint Commission International) and NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) auditor, a NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers) assessor, a CSSD (Central Sterile Supply Department) auditor, and a Ramkrishna Bajaj Quality Award auditor.
Dr. Kamble’s passion for quality management is reflected in his attainment of 11 healthcare-related diplomas, including the prestigious Six Sigma Black Belt. With his extensive knowledge, experience, and diverse skill set, Dr. Rahul Kamble continues to make significant contributions to the fields of Clinical Microbiology, Infection Control, and Antimicrobial Stewardship, positively impacting healthcare practices and patient outcomes in India.
Dr. Pravin D. Potdar, PhD.
EX-Head & Chief of Department Molecular Medicine and Biology, Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
Biography:
Dr. Potdar currently working has a professor & “Chairman” of the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) for Research and Development at Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Education & Research Centre, Mumbai. India. Earlier he worked as a Scientist at the “M.D. Anderson Cancer Centre, Houston, Texas, USA” for almost 3 years.
He completed his Ph.D. from Tata Memorial Centre Mumbai, India, in 1991 and worked in the area of cancer research for more than 35 years. He is a pioneer scientist in the field of cancer research & stem cell research.
In June 2017, he completed 12 years of successful tenure as the Head and Chief of the Department of Molecular Medicine & Biology at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre, Mumbai, India. At Jaslok, he established a Molecular Diagnostics and Stem Cell Research laboratory and carried out various Research Programs in the field of cancer research, Neurological & genetic disorders, infectious diseases, Diabetic Mellitus, etc. Moreover, at Jaslok, he has developed several innovative technologies which can help to diagnose and treat various cancers.
His laboratory became a reference laboratory for several doctoral & post-doctoral students who wish to learn better technology in these fields from all over India & abroad.
He has published almost 100 research papers in the field of cancer research and stem cell research in well-known International Medical Journals and trained more than 1000 students all over India & abroad in this field of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Biology.
He is a recipient of the prestigious “National Institute of Health” (NIH), USA award and also a Founder Member & Ex- Vice President of “The Molecular Pathology Association of India (MPAI). Due to excellent work in the field of Cancer & Stem Cells, his name is included in Marquis’s “Who’s Who in World” Book in 2012. In the year 2015, he invited as a member of a delegation to visit Italian Universities working in the fields of Biotechnology, Cancer Genomics, Stem Cell Research, and Regenerative Medicine by Indo- Indo-Italian Chamber of Commerce (IICC), Mumbai, India.
He has been appointed as an Editorial Board Member & Reviewer for many National and International Journals.
Dr. Quacy A. Grant (Dr.) MD, MPM, MA (Christian Min), MPH.
National TB Programme, Ministry of Health-Guyana Caribbean Field Epidemiology and Lab Training Prog Level II Graduate
Biography:
Upon obtaining his medical degree at the Camaguey Medical University-Cuba in 2012, Dr Grant served as a medical officer at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and the Mahdia District Hospital (Region 8), also serving as acting Regional Health Officer there. He headed the national malaria programme for three years within the Ministry of Health (Vector Control Services) and is now attached as a medical officer at the national TB programme (TB/HIV Coordinator). He also holds a Masters in Project Management from the University of International Cooperation in Costa Rica and he is currently pursuing his Master’s in Public Health at the University of Guyana.
Dr. Tariq Jagnarine
MD, MMed
Programme Manager, NAPs
Ministry of Health, Guyana
Dr. Tariq Jagnarine MD, MMed (Family Medicine), M.Sc., Endocrinology/Diabetes, MIPH/Policy.
Programme Manager, National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPs) – Ministry of Health (MOH), Guyana.
Senior Medical Registrar, Family Medicine, Endocrinology / Diabetes, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)
Biography:
Dr. Tariq Azar Jagnarine is a highly skilled Medical Doctor specializing in Family Medicine and Endocrinology/Diabetes, with a strong background in Public Health and Policy. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to providing quality and efficient medical healthcare services to the public. He also offers valuable support for organizational development and personal growth. Dr. Jagnarine’s passion for health and well-being extends beyond individual care, as he actively advocates for policy changes to promote better health outcomes for communities.
Education has been a cornerstone of Dr. Jagnarine’s professional journey. He holds an impressive array of qualifications, including the ongoing pursuit of a master’s in international public health and policy at Liverpool John Moores University. His academic achievements also encompass a master’s degree in Endocrinology/Diabetes and metabolism from Queen Mary University of London, earned through a Commonwealth Scholarship Distant Award. Furthermore, he holds Postgraduate Diplomas in Project Management and HIV care and management from the University of Washington.
Dr. Jagnarine’s work experience is equally noteworthy. Currently serving as the Programme Director at the National AIDS Programme Secretariat, he plays a crucial role in shaping and implementing policies to combat HIV/AIDS. In addition, he serves as a Senior Medical Registrar at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he brings his expertise in Family Medicine and Endocrinology to the forefront of patient care.
His dedication to education and training is evident through his role as a Lecturer at various esteemed institutions, including the University of Guyana, Greenheart Medical University, Texila Medical School, and more. Dr. Jagnarine’s passion for teaching extends beyond medicine, as he also imparts his knowledge as a Rotating General Medical Officer and Head of the Science Department at Apex Academy.
Dr. Jagnarine’s skills encompass a wide range of competencies, such as management, health advocacy, research, collaboration, professionalism, communication, and leadership. He actively engages in research and has several published research articles and abstracts to his credit.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Dr. Jagnarine is an active volunteer, dedicating his time and expertise to various organizations such as the Rotary Club of Demerara-Guyana, Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), Cheshire Home, and Guyana Relief Council.
In his free time, Dr. Jagnarine enjoys reading, meeting people, traveling, and engaging in archery. His passion for research and continuous learning is evident through his ongoing contributions to medical literature and participation in conferences.
Overall, Dr. Tariq Azar Jagnarine is a multifaceted medical professional who combines expertise in medical practice, education, policy advocacy, and community service. His dedication to improving public health and well-being makes him an asset to any healthcare organization and the communities he serves.
Dr. Reza Niles-Robin
M.D., MPH
Director Vector Control
Ministry of Health, Guyana
Dr. Reza Niles-Robin, M.D., MPH
Director (a.g.) Vector Control Services/Ministry of Health-Guyana
Biography:
Dr. Reza Niles-Robin is a certified government medical officer and public health practitioner that currently works as the Director (a.g.) of Vector Control Services (VCS) within the Ministry of Health (MoH).
In her current role she provides oversight and leadership for three (3) subprograms alongside the corresponding National Coordinator or Head of department within VCS namely: the National Malaria Program, The Aedes Borne Diseases program, the entomology department and the Neglected Infectious Diseases program.
Recently, Dr. Niles Robin held the post of National Coordinator of Neglected Infectious Diseases within VCS/MoH for three (3) years. During her tenure, Dr. Niles Robin worked and implemented activities related to Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination- mass drug elimination activities and the subsequent LF surveillance surveys.
Additionally, during these campaigns she co-authored the article: Assessing factors influencing communities’ acceptability of mass drug administration for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis in Guyana published in 2021, whose data proved vital during the social mobilization aspect of the 2021 campaign.
Dr. Davendranand Sharma
MBBS, FAME, DM
Professor of Behavioral Science
Texila American University College of Medicine, Guyana
Dr. Davendranand Sharma, MBBS, FAME, DM
Professor of Behavioral Science and consultant psychiatrist
Texila American University College of Medicine, Guyana.
Biography:
Dr. Sharma attended a medical school in Amritsar, India and went on to successfully complete his Doctorate of Medicine in Psychiatry from the University of the West Indies. As former Department Chair, he helped to develop the academic curriculum and communication programs for the Department of Behavioral Sciences of Ross University School of Medicine. He also worked as a consultant and he significantly improved the clinical psychological and wellness programs of the University.
As the Consultant for the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), he developed Mental Health Plans for several Caribbean countries.
He provided significant training in the area of Disaster Management in the Caribbean, Central and South America for PAHO.
He is a former Consultant Psychiatrist for the Mental Health Services of Grenada and Dominica and registered for medical practice in Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St Kitts & Nevis.
He is currently providing medical care at the Woodlands hospital and the St Joseph Mercy Hospital which are the two leading private hospitals for Guyana.
Dr. Annastacia Sampson
MD., MPH.
Focal Point Neglected Infectious Diseases, Vector Control Services
Ministry of Health, Guyana
Dr. Annastacia Sampson, MD., MPH
Focal Point Neglected Infectious Diseases, Vector Control Services
Ministry of Health
Biography:
Dr. Annastacia Sampson completed her Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the Latin American School of Medicine in 2015. Initially, Dr. Sampson served at Demerara Regional Hospital as Medical Officer and in 2017 transferred to the Neglected Infectious Diseases unit of the Vector Control Services Ministry of Health, with responsibility of doctor in charge of the Neglected Infectious Diseases clinic. Later, she was promoted to Focal Point, Neglected Infectious Diseases in 2021 and continues to serve in that capacity.
Dr. Sampson also served as National Supervisor and National Coordinator for the Mass Drug Administration campaigns (2019 and 2021) & IDA Impact Survey 2023 respectively. She currently pursuing the Master’s in Public Health at the University of Guyana.
Dr. Tariq Jagnarine MD, MMed (Family Medicine), M.Sc., Endocrinology/Diabetes, MIPH/Policy.
Programme Manager, National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPs) – Ministry of Health (MOH), Guyana.
Senior Medical Registrar, Family Medicine, Endocrinology / Diabetes, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)
Biography:
Dr. Tariq Azar Jagnarine is a highly skilled Medical Doctor specializing in Family Medicine and Endocrinology/Diabetes, with a strong background in Public Health and Policy. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to providing quality and efficient medical healthcare services to the public. He also offers valuable support for organizational development and personal growth. Dr. Jagnarine’s passion for health and well-being extends beyond individual care, as he actively advocates for policy changes to promote better health outcomes for communities.
Education has been a cornerstone of Dr. Jagnarine’s professional journey. He holds an impressive array of qualifications, including the ongoing pursuit of a master’s in international public health and policy at Liverpool John Moores University. His academic achievements also encompass a master’s degree in Endocrinology/Diabetes and metabolism from Queen Mary University of London, earned through a Commonwealth Scholarship Distant Award. Furthermore, he holds Postgraduate Diplomas in Project Management and HIV care and management from the University of Washington.
Dr. Jagnarine’s work experience is equally noteworthy. Currently serving as the Programme Director at the National AIDS Programme Secretariat, he plays a crucial role in shaping and implementing policies to combat HIV/AIDS. In addition, he serves as a Senior Medical Registrar at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he brings his expertise in Family Medicine and Endocrinology to the forefront of patient care.
His dedication to education and training is evident through his role as a Lecturer at various esteemed institutions, including the University of Guyana, Greenheart Medical University, Texila Medical School, and more. Dr. Jagnarine’s passion for teaching extends beyond medicine, as he also imparts his knowledge as a Rotating General Medical Officer and Head of the Science Department at Apex Academy.
Dr. Jagnarine’s skills encompass a wide range of competencies, such as management, health advocacy, research, collaboration, professionalism, communication, and leadership. He actively engages in research and has several published research articles and abstracts to his credit.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Dr. Jagnarine is an active volunteer, dedicating his time and expertise to various organizations such as the Rotary Club of Demerara-Guyana, Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), Cheshire Home, and Guyana Relief Council.
In his free time, Dr. Jagnarine enjoys reading, meeting people, traveling, and engaging in archery. His passion for research and continuous learning is evident through his ongoing contributions to medical literature and participation in conferences.
Overall, Dr. Tariq Azar Jagnarine is a multifaceted medical professional who combines expertise in medical practice, education, policy advocacy, and community service. His dedication to improving public health and well-being makes him an asset to any healthcare organization and the communities he serves.
Dr. Reza Niles-Robin, M.D., MPH
Director (a.g.) Vector Control Services/Ministry of Health-Guyana
Biography:
Dr. Reza Niles-Robin is a certified government medical officer and public health practitioner that currently works as the Director (a.g.) of Vector Control Services (VCS) within the Ministry of Health (MoH).
In her current role she provides oversight and leadership for three (3) subprograms alongside the corresponding National Coordinator or Head of department within VCS namely: the National Malaria Program, The Aedes Borne Diseases program, the entomology department and the Neglected Infectious Diseases program.
Recently, Dr. Niles Robin held the post of National Coordinator of Neglected Infectious Diseases within VCS/MoH for three (3) years. During her tenure, Dr. Niles Robin worked and implemented activities related to Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination- mass drug elimination activities and the subsequent LF surveillance surveys.
Additionally, during these campaigns she co-authored the article: Assessing factors influencing communities’ acceptability of mass drug administration for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis in Guyana published in 2021, whose data proved vital during the social mobilization aspect of the 2021 campaign.
Dr. Davendranand Sharma, MBBS, FAME, DM
Professor of Behavioral Science and consultant psychiatrist
Texila American University College of Medicine, Guyana.
Biography:
Dr. Sharma attended a medical school in Amritsar, India and went on to successfully complete his Doctorate of Medicine in Psychiatry from the University of the West Indies. As former Department Chair, he helped to develop the academic curriculum and communication programs for the Department of Behavioral Sciences of Ross University School of Medicine. He also worked as a consultant and he significantly improved the clinical psychological and wellness programs of the University.
As the Consultant for the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), he developed Mental Health Plans for several Caribbean countries.
He provided significant training in the area of Disaster Management in the Caribbean, Central and South America for PAHO.
He is a former Consultant Psychiatrist for the Mental Health Services of Grenada and Dominica and registered for medical practice in Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St Kitts & Nevis.
He is currently providing medical care at the Woodlands hospital and the St Joseph Mercy Hospital which are the two leading private hospitals for Guyana.
Dr. Annastacia Sampson, MD., MPH
Focal Point Neglected Infectious Diseases, Vector Control Services
Ministry of Health
Biography:
Dr. Annastacia Sampson completed her Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the Latin American School of Medicine in 2015. Initially, Dr. Sampson served at Demerara Regional Hospital as Medical Officer and in 2017 transferred to the Neglected Infectious Diseases unit of the Vector Control Services Ministry of Health, with responsibility of doctor in charge of the Neglected Infectious Diseases clinic. Later, she was promoted to Focal Point, Neglected Infectious Diseases in 2021 and continues to serve in that capacity.
Dr. Sampson also served as National Supervisor and National Coordinator for the Mass Drug Administration campaigns (2019 and 2021) & IDA Impact Survey 2023 respectively. She currently pursuing the Master’s in Public Health at the University of Guyana.
Mr. Peter Ramrayka
MBA. CIHSCM, FRSPH, FIHEEM
Senior Healthcare Executive, UK
Dr. Davendranand Sharma, MBBS, FAME, DM
Mr. Peter Ramrayka. MBA. CIHSCM, FRSPH, FIHEEM is a Senior Healthcare Executive, UK with over 53 continuous years service in health and care. He has worked at the highest level of UK’s National Health Service, with UK’s Department of Health, Local Authority in London and in international health management consultancies in Botswana, Tanzania and Pakistan and in other developing countries. His leadership roles include hospital management, project directorship of
multi – million pound awarding winning mental health transformation projects and board level posts developing policies and procedures and monitoring the performance of organisations and senior teams. He is the author of Recycling the Son of the British Raj (Hansib) and contributing author Memory, Migration and (De)Colonisation in the Caribbean and Beyond (University of London Press) He is a Royal Air Force veteran, Chair / Trustee of UK registered voluntary and military charities and active in civil society organisations.
Dr. Davendranand Sharma, MBBS, FAME, DM
Mr. Peter Ramrayka. MBA. CIHSCM, FRSPH, FIHEEM is a Senior Healthcare Executive, UK with over 53 continuous years service in health and care. He has worked at the highest level of UK’s National Health Service, with UK’s Department of Health, Local Authority in London and in international health management consultancies in Botswana, Tanzania and Pakistan and in other developing countries. His leadership roles include hospital management, project directorship of
multi – million pound awarding winning mental health transformation projects and board level posts developing policies and procedures and monitoring the performance of organisations and senior teams. He is the author of Recycling the Son of the British Raj (Hansib) and contributing author Memory, Migration and (De)Colonisation in the Caribbean and Beyond (University of London Press) He is a Royal Air Force veteran, Chair / Trustee of UK registered voluntary and military charities and active in civil society organisations.
ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
Mr. Saju Bhaskar
Chief Patron
Founder & President, TAU
Mrs. Chithra Lakshmi
Patron
Executive Vice President, TAU
Dr. Dheeraj Bansal
Chief Academic Officer & Dean
TAUCOM
Dr. Jagan Nadipelly
Organizing Secretary
Assistant Dean – Academic Affairs, TAUCOM
Dr. Sooraj Surendranath
Organizing Co-Secretary
Assistant Dean – Student Affairs, TAUCOM
Dr. Raghvendra Tey
Organizing Co-Secretary
Chair, Research and Development TAUCOM
Mr. Syam Kumar
Chief Advisor
Chief Executive Officer, TAU
Dr. Hugh Duckworth
Provost, TAU
Dr. Ajay Kumar Singh Rajput
Chief Advisor
Registrar and Chief Operating Officer, TAU