Tribute to Great Surgeon Professor Hikmat Abdul-Rasool Hatem

Tribute to Great Surgeon Hikmat Abdul-Rasool Hatem

The Faculty of Medicine held a ceremony as tribute to the life of one of the greatest Iraqi surgeons of his era, Professor Hikmat Abdul-Rasool Hatem.

The ceremony began with a Quran recitation, followed by a speech by the dean, Professor Alaa Ghani Hussain, in which he gave a short review of the life of the deceased. He explained that Prof Hikmat was both a professor and a father figure - an admirable educator and an exceptional individual within medical schools nationwide. He was a member of the General Surgery department and an outstanding professor within his specialisation.

Professor Hikmat became Associate Dean for Administrative Affairs, which was followed by his becoming dean of the faculty of medicine in 2005. He played a pioneering role in the formation of a committee for the deans of medical research, as well as for the deans of the faculties of medicine in Iraq, and he remained in his role as chair of these committees until his retirement. Special mention was given to his role in creating a National Committee for credibility of medical schools, and remained chair of this committee until he departed.

Additionally, Professor Hikmat had a leading role in the development of the SKILL laboratory at the faculty of medicine, helping this faculty distinguish itself from other medical schools in the country. The deceased understood and was dedicated to his teaching duties; delivering scientific knowledge and clinical skills to his students.

A number of doctors, professors and the family of the deceased attended the ceremony., praying for mercy and forgiveness from the Almighty on the soul of Professor Hikmat, and patience and solace for his loved ones.