RCPI welcomes 33 new fellows at its Annual Conference
At a special ceremony held during its Annual Conference on Wednesday, 15 October, the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI) welcomed 33 new fellows from countries including Australia, Malaysia, Oman, Pakistan, and Ireland.
Speaking at the ceremony, RCPI President Dr Diarmuid O’Shea reflected on the significance of fellowship, saying: “Becoming a fellow of our college is an internationally recognised accolade of professional excellence, a proud milestone in your career, and an honour we bestow with great care and pride.”
“Medicine is about many things, but it is quintessentially about leadership in action. Be open to change and inspire others. Imagine the aspects of healthcare training and delivery you want to improve, reform, or simply do better, and help us lead the changes needed,” Dr O’Shea continued, echoing the central themes of the conference which focused on clinical innovation, leadership, healthcare equity, and the future of medical education.
The college also welcomed three esteemed clinical leaders as honorary fellows in recognition of their outstanding contributions to medicine: Professor Victor Mukonka, Professor of Public Health and medical doctor, Dr Robert Califf, Consultant Cardiologist and former FDA Commissioner, and Professor Andrew Elder, President of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh.
Honorary Fellow: Professor Victor M Mukonka
Professor Mukonka is a renowned public health leader with more than 35 years of experience spanning clinical, academic and policy roles. He has led responses to major outbreaks including Zambia’s 2017–18 cholera outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic. He has played a key role in establishing Zambia’s leading medical and public health institutions. He now serves as Health Advisor at the Zambian High Commission in New Delhi.
“Prof. Mukonka is an extraordinary person, doctor, and global leader in healthcare. He richly deserves the award of fellowship,” said Professor David Weakliam, who delivered the citation.
Honorary Fellow: Dr Robert Califf
Dr Robert M. Califf is a distinguished physician, researcher and educator who has served twice as Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2016–17, 2022–25). He founded the Duke Clinical Research Institute, has held senior leadership roles at Verily and Google Health, and is an instructor at Duke University. A member of the U.S. National Academy of Medicine, Dr Califf has authored more than 1,200 peer-reviewed publications.
“Dr Califf, we welcome you with admiration and gratitude. May this fellowship celebrate your past contributions - and inspire our shared future: one of equity, innovation, and hope for all,” said John Gordon Harold, MD during the citation for Dr Califf.
Honorary Fellow: Professor Andrew Elder
Professor Andrew Elder is President of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, the first geriatrician to hold the role. An Honorary Professor at Edinburgh Medical School, he is an international expert in clinical skills assessment and education. He previously served as Medical Director of MRCP(UK) and in 2021 was awarded Mastership of the American College of Physicians.
“Professor Elder has had a transformative impact on how clinical skills are taught and assessed around the world. It is a pleasure to be here today as he receives this well-deserved honorary fellowship,” said Prof. Rose Anne Kenny.
The prestigious Canavan Medal and Reuben Harvey Prize were also presented during the ceremony, alongside the awarding of Management Consulting Fellowships and the graduation of the inaugural cohort from the Irish Clinician Educator Training (ICET) programme.
Held at No. 6 Kildare Street, the event featured formal addresses, the presentation of fellowship parchments and awards, followed by a reception for the new fellows, prize winners, graduates, and their guests.
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