FCMS Launches First-Ever Brain Awareness Week: “Get to Know the Maestro!”

Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences (FCMS) successfully launched its inaugural Brain Awareness Week under the theme “Get to Know the Maestro!”—an initiative dedicated to enhancing understanding of brain function and promoting interest in neuroscience among students and the wider community.

This landmark event marked the first activity in Saudi Arabia under the sponsorship of the International Brain Research Organization (IBRO) and was further supported by the Dana Foundation, emphasizing the growing regional significance of neuroscience outreach. The program was coordinated by the Extracurricular Activities (ECA) Unit, in collaboration with the Pediatrics Club, Psychiatry Club, Community Service Unit, and Year 4 MBBS students, under the supervision of Dr. Sara Elfarrash.

The two-day event brought together students, faculty, and members of the public through a series of engaging, educational booths that combined scientific knowledge with creativity and interactivity. Highlights included:

• AI vs Human Booth: A comparative exploration of human intelligence and artificial intelligence.
• Truth or Myth Booth: Dispelling common misconceptions about the brain.
• Brain and Nutrition Booth: Demonstrating the link between diet and cognitive health.
• Brain Regions Booth: Educating attendees about the anatomy and function of key brain areas.
• Experimental Models Booth: Providing hands-on experiences with real brain tissue and microscope demonstrations.
• Mental Health Booth: Sharing five key tips to support mental well-being.
• Giveaways Booth: Distributing educational souvenirs to reinforce learning.
• Nawa Booth: Sponsored by Nawa Foods, offering healthy refreshments aligned with brain wellness.
• Jumbled Booth: Sponsored by Jumbled, featuring nutritious food options designed to support brain health.

Each booth was curated and led by FCMS students, delivering tailored content in an accessible and engaging format. The initiative demonstrated FCMS’s ongoing commitment to student-centered learning, scientific awareness, and community health advocacy.

The college is proud to have hosted this pioneering event, which not only served as an educational platform but also positioned FCMS as a regional leader in neuroscience outreach.

Acknowledgments

The success of Brain Awareness Week would not have been possible without the dedication of the organizing team. Special thanks go to:
Dr. Sara Elfarrash, Dr. Suzan Morsy, Dr. Basma Ibrahim, Dr. Ayat Alzayat, Dr. Angie Amin, Dr. Sadia Sultan, and Dr. Enas Gouda.

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