International Association of Student Surgical Societies (IASSS)
International Association of Student Surgical
Societies (IASSS), in collaboration with the
International Society of Surgery (ISS) presents
FUTURE SURGEONS
Programme 2026
TABLE OF CONTENT
Future Surgeons Programme 2026
02 Overview of the IASSS
04 Overview of the ISW
06 Overview of the FSP
09 Eligibility Criteria
11 Frequently asked Questions
1
OVERVIEW OF THE IASSS
Future Surgeons Programme 2026
The International Association of Student Surgical Societies (IASSS) is a
student- and junior doctor–led organization dedicated to empowering the
next generation of surgical leaders. Founded to unite student surgical
societies from across the globe, IASSS serves as a collaborative platform for
education, research, advocacy, and leadership development in surgery.
As the official pre-specialist affiliate of the International Society of Surgery
(ISS/SIC), IASSS plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between students and
the global surgical community. The association provides aspiring surgeons
with unprecedented access to international opportunities, mentorship, and
high-level engagement in global surgical discourse.
As of May 2025, IASSS proudly represents 8,500+ members from 133 active
countries and over 1,007 universities. Its leadership is composed of 92
executive committee members across 47 countries, reflecting a deep
commitment to diversity, inclusion, and global representation.
IASSS aims to unite the world’s existing pre-specialist surgical interest
groups, facilitate the creation of new societies, and ensure that every aspiring
surgeon, regardless of geography, has the opportunity to connect with like-
minded individuals both locally and internationally. Through the IASSS
network, we envision a future where surgical societies across the world work
together to set the agenda for the future of surgery.
We believe that surgical societies serve a vital role in advancing the field of
surgery. By fostering early exposure, education, leadership, and innovation
at the pre-specialist level, these societies shape the world’s next generation
of surgeons.
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OVERVIEW OF THE IASSS
Future Surgeons Programme 2026
Networking: Build connections with surgical societies, like-minded aspiring
surgeons, and professionals worldwide.
Mentorship: Gain access to equitable mentorship and skill-sharing
opportunities globally. This program fosters important discussions,
strengthens academic foundations, and guides informed decision-making.
Electives: Create international links for clinical and research electives in
various surgical disciplines.
Research: Share and develop research ideas to advance surgical academic
work in your region.
Academic support Engage in academic lectures, skills workshops,
conferences, elective programs, anatomy workshops, and surgical training
sessions.
Surgical Hub: Access comprehensive resources across disciplines and
training levels.
Post-Graduate: Form lasting relationships with fellow members that will
benefit you throughout your career, from medical student to residency
and beyond. Prepare for your college exams
Set the agenda for the future of surgery: Become part of the imprtant
conversation happening around the globe
Pioneering: Contribute to establishing surgical interest groups at medical
schools worldwide. If your university lacks a surgical society, IASSS
members will support you in creating one.
Join IASSS today and start
your surgical journey —
membership is free!
3
OVERVIEW OF THE ISW 2026
Future Surgeons Programme 2026
The 51st International Surgical Week (ISW 2026)— previously known as the
World Congress of Surgery—will take place in Mexico City, Mexico from
19-23 April, 2026.
This global event is presented by the International Society of Surgery
(ISS/SIC) in collaboration with its Integrated Societies (IATSIC, IASMEN, BSI,
and ISDS), Associated Societies, and Participating Societies. ISW 2026 is
hosted in proud partnership with the Mexican Association of Endoscopic
Surgery (AMCE) and will run alongside the 34th International Congress of
AMCE.
As the premier global gathering for the surgical community, ISW 2026 offers
a unique platform for scientific and clinical professionals to exchange
knowledge, explore cutting-edge research, and engage in high-level
discourse on the future of diagnostic and surgical care. The congress fosters
innovation and collaboration by addressing real-time challenges and co-
creating patient-centered solutions that set new global standards.
The congress boasts more than 150 academic sessions running concurrently
over the 4 days, an exciting precongress workshop program as well as a
number of social events!
Whether you're a specialist, researcher, educator, or trainee, ISW 2026
promises an engaging and transformative experience that connects surgical
minds across disciplines and borders.
🔗 More information and registration: [Link]
4
OVERVIEW OF THE ISW 2026
Future Surgeon Programme 2026
OVERVIEW OF THE FSP
Future Surgeons Programme 2026
Background
The Future Surgeons Programme (FSP) was created in response to the
global need for early investment in the next generation of surgical leaders.
Historically, the International Surgical Week (ISW) was reserved for
established specialists. However, the dedicated advocacy of the
International Association of Student Surgical Societies (IASSS), the official
pre-specialist affiliate of the International Society of Surgery (ISS/SIC)—
allowed a dedicated space for students and trainees was secured, marking a
transformative shift in the congress’s inclusivity.
The inaugural Future Surgeon Programme took place in Basel, Switzerland at
the 47th World Congress of Surgery with 24 attendees. Since then the ISS has
supported students at trainees at the Krakow, Vienna and Kuala Lumpur
meetings. The FSP programme has evolved into a prestigious global
platform with 75 alumni where aspiring surgeons meaningfully engage with
the world’s top surgical minds.
The program provides a career-defining experience, offering unparalleled
opportunities in networking, mentorship, leadership development, and
surgical education. Delegates gain exposure to cutting-edge advancements
in surgery while participating in a structured programme that includes
preconference preparation, surgical skills training, research development,
leadership workshops and lots of time to socialise and explore.
FSP is designed not just to educate, but to inspire and cultivate the future
leaders of both IASSS and ISS/SIC, and to strengthen a global community of
young surgical innovators.
6
OVERVIEW OF THE FSP
Future Surgeons Programme 2026
7
OVERVIEW OF THE FSP
Future Surgeons Programme 2026
8
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Future Surgeons Programme 2026
Eligibility Criteria
Member of IASSS (and ISS strongly encouraged)
Final year medical student, intern, or junior trainee with a demonstrated
interest in surgery.
Previous participation in surgical research, conferences, academic
societies, or advocacy work is highly advantageous.
Presentation of a research abstract is highly advantageous.
Selected delegates are expected to attend a virtual pre-conference
briefing and a post-conference feedback session.
A strong commitment to the values of IASSS, professionalism, and
collaboration is essential.
Financial means to travel to and stay in Mexico for the entire duration of
ISW 2026. Sponsorship has not yet been confirmed.
Why Attend?
FSP 2026 offers delegates an unrivalled opportunity to:
Gain exposure to cutting-edge surgical innovation
Engage in hands-on learning and interdisciplinary dialogue
Forge lifelong connections with mentors and peers
Be part of an unforgettable, career-defining journey in the heart of global
surgery
Join us at ISW 2026 and
become part of the future of
9 surgery!
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Future Surgeons Programme 2026
Application Process
Application deadline: 30 June 2025, 22h00 GMT+2
Please ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria outlined above before
applying.
Application form can be found on our website - [Link]
Successful applicants will be invited for an interview before the final
selection is made.
The future of surgery starts here!
10
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Future Surgeon Programme 2026
1. How do I become a member of IASSS?
You can sign up for free membership on our official website: [Link].
Membership is open to all students and junior doctors with an interest in
surgery, and is free of charge.
2. Who can apply for the Future Surgeons Programme (FSP)?
The FSP is open to final year medical students, junior doctors, and surgical
residents with a strong interest in surgery, global health, leadership, or
surgical research. Delegates are selected based on merit, commitment, and
potential.
3. I was an FSP delegate before—can I apply again?
If you are an FSP alumnus, you are not eligible to apply again as a delegate.
However, we encourage alumni to apply to join the FSP Organising
Committee, where you can help shape the next cohort’s experience. Use the
same application link to express interest as an organiser.
4. Is the Future Surgeons Programme funded?
The registration fee for ISW 2026 will be waived for selected FSP delegates.
However, additional funding (e.g., for flights, accommodation, and visas) is
not guaranteed. While IASSS actively seeks funding and sponsorship,
applicants are expected to take initiative in securing their own funding and
be financially responsible throughout the process.
11 Join IASSS now
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Future Surgeon Programme 2026
5. What is the selection process like?
Delegates are selected through a competitive application process. Selection
is based on several criteria, including leadership experience, academic
excellence, demonstrated interest in surgery, engagement in global health,
and the potential to contribute meaningfully to both the Future Surgeons
Programme and the broader IASSS community. Shortlisted candidates will
be invited for an interview following the initial application review.
6. What does the FSP experience include?
The programme includes access to the International Surgical Week, tailored
career development sessions, skills and leadership workshops, mentorship
opportunities, and networking events with some of the world’s top surgeons
and fellow aspiring surgical leaders from around the globe.
7. Do I need to be a member of IASSS to apply for FSP?
Yes, active membership with IASSS is required to apply. Fortunately,
membership is free of charge and easy to obtain via [Link].
8. When and where is the next FSP taking place?
The next Future Surgeons Programme will take place at the 51st
International Surgical Week (ISW 2026) in Mexico City, Mexico, from 19–23
April 2026. In April 2028, ISW is scheduled to take place in Cape Town, South
Africa.
9. Who can I contact if I have questions?
For any queries or additional information, please reach out to us at:
📧 board@[Link] or iasssoc@[Link], or over WhatsApp on +27 73 132
6271
12
If you want to build new and lasting
routes, bring with you the next generation.
Tatenda Mbanje
Contact Us: [Link]
board@[Link] @iasss_official
[Link] @IASSS_1
[Link],org
