In our quest to delve deeper into ORT’s impactful initiatives, we had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Sara Gruper, a driving force behind the network’s educational endeavors. Dr. Gruper, a PhD holder in Biotechnology from the Technion, has dedicated her career to making science accessible to young minds. With a post-doctorate stint at Rutgers University in New Jersey, Dr. Gruper brings over two decades of experience in developing enriching programs in science and technology.
Interview with Dr. Sara Gruper:
Q: Hello, Sarah. Could you describe the ORT Medical program for us? What is its purpose and study content?
Dr. Gruper: The “ORT Medical” program is a testament to ORT’s commitment to scientific and technological education. It was developed to introduce high school students to the diverse facets of medicine, including clinical, scientific, technological, and engineering aspects. The program offers a blend of classroom learning, interactions with medical experts, and field trips. Its curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from the human body’s systems to medical ethics, with a focus on cardiology and neurology. The goal is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the medical field and inspire them to pursue careers in science, technology, and medicine.
Q: How many students are currently enrolled in the program?
Dr. Gruper: “ORT Medical” has evolved from two previous programs that focused on related areas: the “Heart of the Matter” program, which explored heart imaging and catheterization technologies, and the “Neurosciences” program, which delved into the nervous system. Over the years, hundreds of students have participated in these programs across the ORT network. Additionally, many ORT schools offer majors in medical sciences, biomedicine, and biotechnology, attracting thousands of students.
Q: What is your role in ORT’s R&D, and what excites you about it?
Dr. Gruper: As a member of ORT’s R&D team, I oversee educational projects and content development. My role is diverse, encompassing the creation of learning materials, the implementation of teaching methodologies, and collaboration with experts in the field. What excites me the most is the opportunity to inspire curiosity and interest in students and teachers alike. I believe that education should cultivate not only knowledge but also critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for lifelong learning.
Q: How does ORT Medical collaborate with the industry to achieve its goals?
Dr. Gruper: Collaborating with medical organizations and high-tech companies is integral to the success of ORT Medical. By engaging students with professionals and exposing them to advanced technologies and research methods, we aim to ignite their passion for the field. Practical experiences, such as hospital internships and training programs, provide students with valuable insights into real-world medical practices.
Q: What are the success indicators for the program, and how does it measure success?
Dr. Gruper: The success of ORT Medical is measured by various factors, including the widespread dissemination of medical knowledge across schools, the integration of medical programs with paramedical majors, and the increased enrollment of students, especially females, in scientific and paramedical fields. Ultimately, our goal is to maximize the number of students who choose careers in these vital sectors.
Q: How can industry cooperation further enhance the program’s success?
Dr. Gruper: Industry cooperation offers students firsthand exposure to the professional world, allowing them to interact with industry professionals, explore career options, and gain insights into the latest technologies. By partnering with Medical organizations and companies and with the professional Medical communities like the MeDS community, which focuses on developing future medical technologies, we provide students with a glimpse into the future of medicine.
In conclusion, ORT Medical stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence in medical education. Through its holistic approach and industry partnerships, it continues to nurture the next generation of medical leaders, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to shape the future of healthcare.
We welcome members of the MeDS community, as well as medical organizations and companies and even individuals who are not affiliated with the MeDS community, to participate in our collaborations and initiatives. If you are interested in hosting a student tour in your organization, delivering a practical or theoretical lecture in one of the high schools, or supervising students and their practical projects, please feel free to contact us. We would be delighted to include you in our activities. Additionally, we invite women scientists, doctors, engineers and senior business managers who would like to share their success stories to come and give lectures to the girls in our program. We guarantee that the rewards will be significant, both personally and in terms of contributing to the education of the future generation in Israel. Please contact us by filling out the form at the following link: https://forms.gle/ziu4x2xCPK7Z2UtD7