Nassau, The Bahamas – June 2025 — The Caribbean College of Surgeons (CCOS) successfully concluded its annual Scientific Conference, held this year in the vibrant city of Nassau, The Bahamas. The event, held June 19th to 21st 2025, brought together leading surgeons, trainees, and healthcare professionals from across the region and beyond, fostering dynamic presentations, meaningful interactions with surgeons and sponsors, and a renewed commitment to surgical excellence in the Caribbean.
Over the course of the conference, attendees participated in a series of high-quality scientific sessions that showcased groundbreaking surgical research, case discussions, and innovations in clinical practice. Presentations reflected the diversity and depth of surgical expertise in the region and were complemented by insightful contributions from visiting lecturers and international collaborators. The collegial atmosphere encouraged robust dialogue, mentorship, and professional exchange, reinforcing the strength of the Caribbean surgical community. This was facilitated by a busy social program. The College appreciates the hard work of the organising team led by Dr. Wesley Francis and the support from the Bahamian Government and our sponsors. As a prelude to the conference, the College was able to support the local team with a kidney transplant which has not been done in the Bahamas for several years.
At this meeting we also began a relationship with Northwell Health which is New York’s largest healthcare provider. Their Centre for Global Health offers the provision of capacity building through sharing resources and training with our region.
At the awards banquet two Bahamian surgeons Dr. Loxley Monroe and Dr. Charles Diggis and Barbadian surgeon Dr Ramesh Jonnalagadda were honoured.
At the Annual General Meeting new leadership was elected within the College. The CCOS Council is pleased to announce the following appointments:
- Dr. Charles Greenidge (St. Lucia) has been elected President of the Caribbean College of Surgeons.
- Dr. Wesley Francis (The Bahamas) has assumed the role of Vice-President.
- Dr. Vonetta George (Antigua and Barbuda) is now the Secretary.
- Dr. Hugh Roberts (Jamaica) has been elected as the newest member of the Council.
These leaders join a dedicated group of Council members who continue to serve out their terms, ensuring continuity and stability within the organisation.
The College expressed heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing President, Prof. Shamir Cawich, for his unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and outstanding service to CCOS during his tenure. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the organization’s growth and regional impact.
The 2025 conference was widely hailed as a resounding success, both academically and socially. The CCOS now looks ahead with excitement to its next scientific conference, which is scheduled to be held in Tobago July 1st to 4th, 2026.
