Staff, students, invited guests at the World Radiography Day at Pasifika Campus.

Students and staff from the Fiji National University’s (FNU), College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences’ (CMNHS) Department of Medical Imaging and Anatomy (DMIA) celebrated World Radiography Day to commemorate the discovery of X-rays by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895.

World Radiography Day is celebrated annually on November 8 and recognises the crucial role that radiography and medical imaging play in healthcare, diagnostics, and patient care. It also highlights the dedication and expertise of radiologic technologists and professionals who work tirelessly to provide accurate and essential medical imaging services.

World Radiography Day serves as a reminder of the significant contributions of radiography to modern medicine and the importance of patient safety and quality healthcare.

Staff and students of the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences at the World Radiography Day.

The event was marked on October 27 to allow students to be part of the programme before they proceeded on study break and examinations.

CMNHS Acting Dean and Chief Guest at the celebrations, Dr Odille Chang, said radiographers played a pivotal role in the healthcare system, often working behind the scenes. She added that their commitment to patient safety and their unwavering dedication to their profession were attributes that deserved our deepest appreciation.

“Our journey in the Pacific region echoes the global narrative of the evolution of radiography. We have progressed from our modest beginnings to embrace the most cutting-edge technologies and scientific advancements in the field of medical imaging,” Dr Chang said.

“The state-of-the-art medical imaging department at our College exemplifies our commitment to staying at the forefront of this dynamic field. From traditional X-rays to the sophisticated realms of computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and digital radiography, we have revolutionized the way we visualize and diagnose medical conditions, enhancing the precision and clarity of our diagnoses.”

“This transformation wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our staff and the commitment of our students. Our students, you have chosen to embark on a path that places patient safety at the core of your professional journey. Our Bachelor of Medical Imaging Science (BMIS) programme, accredited at international standards, stands as a testament to excellence. It not only reflects our commitment to delivering a comprehensive curriculum but also demonstrates our dedication to student support.”

Head of Medical Imaging and Anatomy Department, Keshni Lata said from a humble university laboratory experiment emerged the profession of radiography, now known as the “eyes of medicine.”

“Today, medical imaging, harnessing the power of radiation, plays a crucial role in saving countless lives through accurate diagnosis and treatment,” she said.

“As a radiographer, I take pride in my extensive knowledge of medical imaging and in celebrating this often-overlooked profession. Radiographers are the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes, forming the backbone of medical imaging.”

“They deserve our heartfelt appreciation. Radiography has come a long way, standing at the forefront of technological advancements, offering precision, efficiency, and minimally invasive procedures, all while integrating Artificial Intelligence. However, at its core, radiography is fundamentally about patient care, providing comfort and assurance to individuals in moments of pain, anxiety, and uncertainty.”

Aaron Prasad

“Radiography is a field in constant evolution, relying on the dedication of individuals who choose to embark on this noble profession. I encourage the younger generation to consider medical imaging as a career path, a path that leads to a profession dedicated to saving lives each day.”

Second-year student in the BMIS programme, Aaron Prasad, said he was proud to be studying the programme at FNU.

“This is an important programme as it helps to see what is going on inside the people through the modern technologies we have, which helps in the investigation and diagnosis,” Prasad said.

“My advice to others is that the pathway of medical imaging is not tough but will demand your best personality, and one should always work smart and make short-term goals first.”