School of Medicine – VNU-HCM Organises Commemoration to Honor Body Donors for Science - Macchabée 2023

2024-01-21 10:00:00

The School of Medicine – VNU-HCM held the Macchabée 2023 Commemoration, a special event to express gratitude to those who generously donated their bodies for scientific purposes.

The scene of Commemoration

The theme for Macchabée 2023 was “The Silent Teachers,” and it took place on the morning of January 19th at the Anatomy Practice Area. The Commemoration aimed to honor and remember individuals who contributed significantly to scientific advancements through body donation.

Family members of the “silent teachers” at the Commemoration 

The event unfolded in a solemn atmosphere, attended by numerous students, SoM – VNUHCM members, and the relatives of the body donors. This annual activity, scheduled during the Lunar New Year, serves as a heartfelt expression of gratitude to those who have passed away, yet have left an enduring legacy in the field of science.

Medical students participated respectfully in the Commemoration, engaging in rituals such as offering incense. During the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Quyet Tien, Vice Dean of the School of Medicine – VNU-HCM, conveyed profound appreciation to the body donors and their families. He emphasised the crucial role of practical experience in medical training, underscoring that even a minor error during a surgical procedure could have significant consequences for the patient.

Dr. Le Quang Tuyen, Head of the Anatomy Department, further elaborated on the significance and history of Macchabée Day. He highlighted the unique role of these unsung teachers, who, despite never standing at the lectern, play a pivotal part in shaping the future of medical professionals. Dr. Tuyen expressed that the day serves as an occasion for gratitude, and pride, and a celebration of the positive energy left behind by body donors.

The Macchabée 2024 Commemoration included essential rituals, such as speeches expressing gratitude, processions, incense offerings, flower tributes, and respectful homage to those who donated their bodies for medical education.