Organised by SEDEM in collaboration with UIC, the XXVII National Congress and III International Congress of SEDEM will bring together medical educators, lecturers and researchers to examine the main challenges in educating future doctors and to share innovative approaches and teaching practices.

The congress will also mark the launch of the activities that UIC will organise during the 2026–2027 academic year to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Bachelor's Degree in Medicine, established with the aim of training outstanding doctors capable of combining clinical practice, research and humanistic values.

Educational innovation and emerging challenges in medical education

The integration of new technologies and artificial intelligence, clinical simulation, the development of critical thinking, sustainability and planetary public health will form a central part of the scientific programme. The sessions will explore how these areas can be incorporated into medical education and how teaching models can evolve to meet the current needs of healthcare systems.

The programme will also highlight the educational model of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, which promotes the holistic development of future healthcare professionals, with a strong emphasis on patient-centred care and the development of interpersonal and human competencies.

As Dr Esther Calbo, dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, explains: "The education of future doctors must keep pace with scientific and educational innovation, while never losing sight of the human aspect of medicine. The affective-effective model reflects our commitment to a form of medicine that combines clinical excellence with empathy, attentive listening and respect for the dignity of every individual."

The congress will feature more than 20 national and international speakers taking part in panel discussions and keynote lectures. The programme will also include presentations of innovative educational initiatives, interactive workshops on teaching and assessment methods, and opportunities for lecturers and researchers to exchange ideas and build professional connections.

Another new feature of this year's edition will be the creation of the SEDEM–UIC University Institute for Patient Care Award, aimed at giving greater visibility to initiatives that promote person-centred healthcare.

The selection of UIC as the host institution reflects the University's commitment to medical education that is closely connected to clinical practice and healthcare delivery. This commitment is embodied in UIC Health, the University's health sciences ecosystem, which brings together the seven healthcare disciplines taught at Sant Cugat Campus. Located within Hospital Universitari General de Catalunya, it extends across the University's affiliated teaching and healthcare centres.