The Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (TRIHMS) in Naharlagun has been granted the ECFMG sponsor note by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), USA. This recognition is a significant milestone for the institute, enabling its MBBS graduates to pursue higher education, residency training, and medical licensure opportunities in the United States, Canada, and several other countries.
With the ECFMG sponsor note, TRIHMS MBBS graduates are now eligible to apply for ECFMG certification and appear for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), subject to fulfilling the prescribed eligibility requirements. They can also pursue the Medical Council of Canada pathway and apply for residency programmes in the United States through the NRMP match. The World Directory listing with the ECFMG sponsor note further facilitates recognition of TRIHMS graduates by medical regulatory authorities in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Gulf countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
The achievement is the culmination of nearly two years of dedicated efforts led by TRIHMS Director Prof Naba Kumar Bezbaruah. The initiative was undertaken following requests from alumni aspiring to pursue postgraduate education and clinical training abroad. The TRIHMS established a dedicated ECFMG section, headed by Prof NK Bezbaruah, to facilitate the process. Associate Professor Dr Goter Dokeserved as the ECFMG coordinator, while Dr Jichu Pulu was designated as the ECFMG credential verification authorised user.
Dr Goter Doke attributed the success to nearly two years of sustained official communication and coordination with the ECFMG, USA. He highlighted the long-term significance of the recognition, stating that it will create greater opportunities for higher education, residency training, and employment abroad for TRIHMS MBBS graduates. The recognition will also enhance the academic reputation and standing of the TRIHMS among medical colleges in India, making it an attractive choice for aspiring MBBS students.
The ECFMG sponsor note is expected to have far-reaching implications for the institute and its graduates over the next 10 to 20 years, with the potential to create a strong network of TRIHMS alumni working and excelling across the world, including a vibrant NRI alumni community.
