Historic Step: SPHMMC Prepares for Ethiopia’s First Liver Transplant
A delegation from St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC), led by the institution’s Provost, Dr. Sisay Sirgu, has returned from a five-week intensive training and observation program at California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC), Sutter Health – San Francisco. The program marks a major milestone in Ethiopia’s efforts to establish its first liver transplant service.
The initiative was coordinated by Dr. Kidist Kidane Yimam, a U.S.-based transplant hepatologist of Ethiopian origin and a key figure in the development of liver transplantation in Ethiopia. The SPHMMC team received comprehensive training, covering clinical, technical, and administrative aspects of liver transplant care.
During the visit, team members observed several liver transplant procedures and received hands-on training and daily mentorship from leading transplant surgeons and hepatologists. They also rotated through intensive care units (ICUs) and operating rooms, participated in tumor board discussions, and attended liver transplant candidate selection meetings.
“This has been a transformative experience. We’ve gained essential knowledge, not only in clinical care but also in building the systems around liver transplantation,” said Dr. Wuletaw Chane, Medical Service Vice Provost of SPHMMC, associate professor of surgery, and consultant general and Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary surgeon.
The team also received focused training in interventional radiology (IR) and anesthesia, engaging in one-on-one sessions with senior specialists. These sessions introduced the team to advanced IR techniques and perioperative care protocols. Additionally, they held strategic discussions with leadership from the West Coast organ donor network to understand organ allocation and policy systems vital to establishing a similar model in Ethiopia.
To support SPHMMC’s transplant program, CPMC donated essential supplies, including vascular ultrasound Dopplers and various GI and IR consumables. Together, both institutions also developed a detailed list of required equipment and consumables needed for liver transplant surgery, ICU support, and radiologic procedures.
The partnership between SPHMMC and CPMC is set to continue, with return visits planned for September 2025, February 2026, and June 2026. These collaborative missions aim to lay the groundwork for performing Ethiopia’s first liver transplant within that period.
SPHMMC extends its heartfelt thanks to Dr. Kidist K. Yimam for her leadership, and to the entire CPMC team for their generosity, expertise, and commitment to global health partnership. This collaboration represents a critical step in building advanced surgical capacity and expanding life-saving treatment access in Ethiopia.
(By: Neway Tsegaye)

SPHMMC Cardiologist Wins Prestigious Electrophysiology Case Presentation Competition
Dr. Bisrat Demeke Shiferaw, a distinguished cardiologist at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC), has earned top honors at the Electrophysiology IEP Fellows’ & Early Attendings’ Conference, held this past Sunday.
Dr. Bisrat was selected as one of five outstanding fellows to present complex electrophysiology cases before a panel of internationally renowned experts. The selection committee, chaired by leading figures in the field—Dr. Devi G. Nair, MD, FACC, FHRS; Dr. Bradley Knight; and Dr. Luigi Di Biase, MD, PhD, FACC, FHRS—chose her based on the complexity and educational value of her case.
Representing SPHMMC on this global platform, Dr. Bisrat impressed the faculty board with the clarity, depth, and clinical relevance of her presentation. Her exceptional performance earned her first place in the competition, along with a coveted award of complimentary entry to the Heart Rhythm Society 2026 annual meeting in Chicago, Illinois—one of the most prestigious gatherings in the field of cardiac electrophysiology.
This achievement highlights the growing global impact of Ethiopian physicians in advanced medical specialties such as electrophysiology. Dr. Bisrat’s success is a testament to the caliber of training, mentorship, and commitment to excellence at SPHMMC.
As the institution continues to expand its role in international clinical and academic platforms, milestones like this reaffirm SPHMMC’s journey toward becoming a regional center of excellence in cardiovascular care.
Congratulations to Dr. Bisrat Demeke Shiferaw on this outstanding accomplishment.

Extension of Fellowship Application Deadline - Clinical Radiology and Medical Radiologic Technology department
Clinical Radiology and Medical Radiologic Technology department would like to inform applicants that the application deadline for the  Fellowship Programs has been extended due to a lower  than expected number of applications received so far.
We recognize that potential applicants may have encountered challenges in preparing and submitting their applications within the initial timeframe. In light of this, we are pleased to offer additional time to ensure all interested and eligible candidates have the opportunity to apply.
New Application Deadline: August 28, 2025

Early recognition and stabilization, medication double-checks, neonatal airway safety, asepsis, and post-op surveillance. The human arc that moves readers: the risk, the discipline, the joy of safe discharge. A simple graphic: “From first hour → safer systems → better outcomes,” anchored in WHO’s WPSD framing.St.Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, [8/21/2025 6:29 PM]
Vacancy Announcement
Institution: St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC)
Department: Center for Professional and Institutional Development (CPID)
Position Title: Digital Learning & Innovation Intern
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Duration: 3 - 6 months (with possible extension based on performance and institutional need)
Compensation: Unpaid Internship (Interns will receive a Certificate of Completion, Professional Mentorship, and Networking Opportunities)
About the Role
The Digital Learning & Innovation Intern will support CPID’s initiatives in digital learning, iHRIS (Human Resource Information System) management, business development, and digital communications. This internship provides hands-on experience in instructional design, digital platform management, project coordination, and institutional visibility.
Key Responsibilities
1. Digital Learning & Content Development
Assist in designing and developing digital learning materials (videos, quizzes, interactive content).
Support creation of engaging e-learning content using authoring tools.
Upload and manage content on the Learning Management System (LMS).
Provide technical assistance to instructors and learners.
Support revision and improvement of existing courses based on instructional design principles.
Contribute to accessibility enhancements of digital materials.
Qualifications: (Digital Learning & Content Development)
Final-year student or recent graduate in Educational Technology, Computer Science, Health Sciences, or related field.
Familiarity with LMS platforms (e.g., Moodle, Canvas).
Experience with e-learning tools or instructional design is an asset.
2. iHRIS Support & Data Management
Support data entry, updates, and reporting in the iHRIS platform.
Provide user support and troubleshoot system-related issues.
Analyze HR data and generate reports.
Collaborate with IT teams to address technical challenges.
Qualifications: (iHRIS Support & Data Management)
Student or graduate in Health Informatics, Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field.
Understanding of HRIS platforms, particularly iHRIS.
Strong data analysis and reporting skills.
3. Projects & Business Development
Assist in proposal writing and concept development.
Conduct research on trends in digital learning and institutional development, including grant seeking.
Map stakeholders and support partnership communications.
Contribute to the development of sustainable business models for digital initiatives.
Qualifications: (Projects & Business Development)
Background in Public Health, Business Administration, Project Management, or related fields.
Interest or experience in business development or fundraising.
Strong writing and research skills.
4. Social Media & Digital Communications
Manage and update CPID’s social media accounts.
Develop and schedule engaging content for visibility and outreach.
Monitor social media analytics and engagement.
Support digital campaigns and multimedia production (graphics, reels, etc.).
Qualifications: (Social Media & Digital Communications)
Student or graduate in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or related fields.
Experience managing social media accounts and content calendars.
Basic skills in graphic/video editing tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Suite).
Required Soft Skills
Strong communication and interpersonal abilities
Creativity and attention to detail
Effective time management and self-direction
Flexibility and eagerness to learn in a dynamic setting
Preferred Experience
Internship or volunteer experience in one or more of the following areas:
Digital learning or instructional design
HRIS platforms
Project coordination or proposal writing

Social media or digital communications
Internship Benefits
Practical exposure to digital innovation in health education

St.Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, [8/22/2025 8:29 AM]
Professional mentorship and team-based learning
Certificate of Completion and potential recommendation letter
Hands-on involvement in real-world institutional projects
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit the following documents:
Updated CV/Resume
Cover Letter explaining your interest and relevant qualifications
Application Deadline: August 31, 2025
Application Link: https://forms.gle/gXmT23EQXY56Yp9H9

H.E. Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba Appoints New Leadership at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College

Her Excellency Dr. Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health, has announced the appointment of new leaders at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC).

Dr. Muluken Tesfaye – Chief Executive Director

Dr. Ewenet G. Hanah – Research and Community Service Corporate Director

Dr. Lemi Belay – Academic and Medical Service Corporate Director

These appointments mark an important step in strengthening SPHMMC’s leadership, advancing medical education and research, and expanding community health services nationwide.

We, the community of SPHMMC, warmly congratulate our newly appointed leaders and extend our best wishes for success in their new roles.

Let Us Acquaint Ourselves with Our New CEO
Dr. Muluken Tesfaye as the new Chief Executive Director of St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC).He is appointed last week by H.E. Dr. Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health

Dr. Muluken brings over a decade of experience as a clinician, academician, healthcare leader, and program manager. He has served SPHMMC as Assistant Professor, Head of the Department of Psychiatry, and member of the Academic Council and Senate (2018–2023). During this time, he also worked as Senior Advisor for Medical Services in the Office of the Vice Provost.

Since September 2023, Dr. Muluken has been leading Eka Kotebe Hospital as Chief Executive Director. He is also a former President of the Ethiopian Psychiatric Association.

Dr. Muluken holds a Doctor of Medicine degree with a specialty in Psychiatry.

Let us acquaint ourselves with our new Academic and Medical Services Corporate Director

Dr. Lemi Belay was appointed last week as the new Academic and Medical Services Corporate Director of St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC) by Her Excellency Dr. Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health.

An Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Lemi specializes in Family Planning and Reproductive Health as well as Maternal and Fetal Medicine. He is a distinguished researcher, educator, and trainer, with more than 65 publications in leading international journals.

Dr. Lemi has made significant contributions to the development of international and national reproductive health guidelines, protocols, and training materials—including valuable inputs to World Health Organization (WHO) protocols and guidelines.

Beyond academia, he has shown strong leadership and professional service. He has served as Clinical Vice Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ethiopia’s Country Representative for WATOG, and as a Medical Officer with international organizations such as WHO Headquarters (Geneva), WHO AFRO, and UNFPA.

His career reflects a deep commitment to advancing global health through leadership, research, training, policy development, and international collaboration.

Let us acquaint ourselves with our new Research and Community Service Corporate Director

Dr. Ewenat Gebrehanna has been appointed as the new Research and Community Service Corporate Director of St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC). This appointment was made by H.E. Dr. Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health.

Dr. Ewenat is a distinguished public health researcher and academician with over 20 years of experience managing diverse research projects and leading collaborations across institutions in Ethiopia and internationally. She currently serves as an Associate Professor at SPHMMC, where she leads major grant-funded initiatives focused on reproductive health, gender equity, and health systems strengthening.

She holds a PhD in Public Health from the University of Gondar, with research focused on behavioral health among university students. She also earned her MPH from Addis Ababa University and was trained as a Public Health Officer at Debub University (now Dilla University).

Her career includes key academic and technical positions at the Ethiopian Public Health Association, Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, SPHMMC, and as an independent consultant for national and international NGOs. In these roles, she has provided expertise in research design, monitoring and evaluation, training, and policy translation.

At SPHMMC, she has served in the School of Public Health since 2017, contributing to the reproductive health unit, coordinating the HDSS program, serving on the college senate, and sitting on various academic committees. She has successfully led eight externally funded projects as Principal Investigator (PI).

Dr. Ewenat is a strong advocate for locally driven, evidence-based policy and has been instrumental in advancing research capacity, gender mainstreaming in health systems, and the integration of monitoring and evaluation into public health programs. She is deeply committed to ethical, impactful research—values clearly reflected in her work.

Currently, she also serves as an Executive Board Member of the Ethiopian Public Health Association (EPHA).