Message from the Regional Office Chair: SEEM goes to Thessaloniki, Greece

Although the two regional meetings have just been concluded as of this writing, we at the Regional Office take no pause and continue with the organisation and planning for next year’s Central European Meeting (CEM) and the South Eastern European Meeting (SEEM).

In this message, I particularly would focus on the SEEM which would be held in Thessaloniki, Greece on the first weekend of November next year. This is the second time Thessaloniki will host the annual SEEM since 2006, and for good reason since we have not only witnessed the enthusiastic response from our colleagues in Greece but also took note of the fact that this beautiful city provides a fitting venue to one of the Regional Office’s frontline events.

We have wonderful plans for the SEEM next year and the programme would include new features that aim to further stimulate the work of both young and mid-career urologists. With my belief that the Regional Office can fulfil a vital role in providing a platform for young urologists through the SEEM, we are expanding the current SEEM programme by emphasising opportunities for education and training.

Details of these plans are yet to be finalised as of press time but the changes that will be implemented are meant to make the SEEM serve as a central hub of networking and collaboration with young urologists not only as the main beneficiaries but also as active participants and initiators.

In October 26 and 27 during the 8th SEEM in Sofia, Bulgaria I am heartened by the support of key players such as the national societies, opinion leaders from the academe and our partners from industry. Their enthusiasm for closer collaboration exemplifies some of the core goals and mission of the Regional Office and this is precisely the key element we need to narrow the gaps in our community.

Let me therefore take this opportunity to invite you to Thessaloniki in November 1-2, 2013 for the 9th SEEM, the annual gathering which not only reflects the growing importance of regional and local links but also the vitality shown by young urologists in pursuing innovations and critical thought that serve to ensure a strong future for our specialty.