Rela Institute and Medical Centre (RIMC) in collaboration with Sree Balaji Dental College & Hospital has become the first institution outside the United Kingdom to host the Annual Membership Examinations of the Royal College of Surgeons and Physicians (RCSP), Glasgow, in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics.
This global examination, held from 2 to 4 December 2024, attracted 46 postgraduate specialists from countries including India, China, Oman, Egypt, Sri Lanka, and Saudi Arabia. Conducted under the supervision of 18 examiners from the UK and Malaysia, the first phase of this rigorous two-part examination marks a milestone in making globally renowned credentials accessible to professionals in India and beyond.
The MOrth RCPS qualification, conferred upon successful candidates, is a benchmark of excellence in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics. Candidates must hold a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) degree to be eligible for this exam. The two-part process comprises a written examination followed by a clinical assessment a year later. Notably, this qualification not only enhances recognition but also offers candidates an edge in securing global employment opportunities, with some hospitals mandating MOrth as a prerequisite.
For the first time in its history, the RCSP examination was conducted outside the UK, underscoring the growing emphasis on global partnerships and collaboration. Speaking about the event, Professor Mohammed Rela, Chancellor of Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER) and Chairman and Managing Director of Rela Hospital, said:
“RIMC’s designation as the only global centre for this examination represents a transformative step in professional education. Indian candidates can now pursue world-class qualifications without the financial burden of studying abroad. This initiative sets a benchmark for educational innovation and demonstrates the importance of international collaboration.”
Prof. Rela highlighted that this was an unparalleled opportunity for Indian professionals to access globally recognised certifications locally while maintaining the same standards upheld in the UK.
Selection of RIMC as Host
The Academic Council of the Royal College of Surgeons and Physicians chose RIMC after a rigorous evaluation process. Factors such as clinical excellence, patient care, infrastructure, research capabilities, and an experienced faculty—all aligned with the RCSP’s standards—were instrumental in RIMC’s selection. RIMC’s team includes MOrth RCPS-qualified faculty who are former members of the Royal College.
Dr. Kannan, Dean of Sree Balaji Dental College & Hospital, along with Dr. S. Bhuminathan, Registrar, BIHER, and Dr. Badri Thiruvengatachari, Research Director, BIHER, also graced the event.
Broadening Access to Global Qualifications
This event is expected to pave the way for increased accessibility to prestigious global qualifications, reducing financial barriers for Indian professionals and fostering greater international collaboration.