Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) celebrated the completion of its 2025–2026 Medical Internship Programme with a graduation ceremony held on Monday, honoring the 2026 Medical Intern Class. The rigorous, one-year clinical training experience provides newly qualified doctors with a strong foundation in clinical medicine, preparing them for full licensure and independent general practice in Antigua and Barbuda. Throughout the year, interns completed core rotations in Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, and Paediatrics. These rotations provided hands-on experience, helping interns develop the clinical knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to progress in their medical careers. Successful completion of the program is required for full registration as a medical practitioner in Antigua and Barbuda, marking a vital transition from medical school to independent practice.
Special Recognition and Awards
The ceremony also highlighted individual excellence among the graduates, with Dr. Georgian Ajilloh capturing three major awards, including Intern of the Year.
Intern Awards:
– Intern of the Year: Dr. Georgian Ajilloh (For excelling in all aspects of the program, embodying competence, compassion, and professionalism)
– Clinical Excellence Award: Dr. David Odulaja (For exceptional clinical knowledge, skill, and judgment)
– Patient Care & Compassion Award: Dr. Georgian Ajilloh (For unwavering empathy, kindness, and dedication to holistic patient well-being)
– Leadership & Team Spirit Award: Dr. Georgian Ajilloh (For exemplary leadership, collaboration, and inspiring colleagues)
– Most Improved Intern: Dr. Brianna Benjamin (For remarkable growth in clinical skills, confidence, and professional maturity)
– Spirit of Service Award: Dr. David Odulaja (For outstanding dedication to serving patients, colleagues, and the community)
Faculty and Department Awards
The event also recognized outstanding faculty leadership, underscored by historic back-to-back achievements. For the second consecutive year, Dr. Vonetta George (SLBMC Dept. of Surgery Chair) received the Mentorship Award, and the Department of Pediatrics won the Outstanding Department Support award. Additionally, Dr. Gaden Osborne (SLBMC Neurologist and Subspecialties Chair) was honored with the Best Teaching Consultant Award for his dedication to medical education.