The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) has appointed four new associate global directors (AGDs), strengthening its international leadership and partnerships across key regions.
Professor Dzifa Dey will serve as AGD for Sub-Saharan Africa, Dr Preetham Boddana as AGD for South Asia, and Dr Swe Myint as AGD for the Asia Pacific region. The newly appointed AGDs began their roles at the start of February.
Dr Mo Aye, previously AGD for the Asia Pacific region, will temporarily take over from Dr Emma Mitchell as AGD for international medical graduates (IMGs). He began his role in January.
Professor Dzifa Dey is an associate professor at the University of Ghana Medical School and a consultant rheumatologist heading the Rheumatology Unit at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana. With fellowship training in internal medicine and specialist training in rheumatology at University College London Hospitals, she is widely recognised for her leadership in advancing rheumatology and medical education across Africa.
‘I am deeply honoured by this appointment and excited to contribute to the RCP’s global vision in Sub-Saharan Africa. Our region has a growing community of clinicians committed to excellence, and I look forward to fostering partnerships that strengthen education, research and knowledge exchange, while developing future leaders.
Together, we can shape a future where global collaboration directly translates into better care for patients.'
Professor Dzifa Dey
Dr Preetham Boddana is a consultant nephrologist within the NHS and director of medical education at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. An MRCP(UK) PACES examiner and national IMT interviewer, he brings extensive experience in postgraduate education and leadership, alongside longstanding professional connections to South Asia.
‘It brings together my longstanding commitment to improving postgraduate medical education, leadership, and providing high-quality patient care with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact as a new member joining the global team.
I am motivated to work collaboratively with all stakeholders across South Asia – clinicians, educators, institutions and partners – to build sustainable, locally led solutions that strengthen health systems and improve global health outcomes.’
Dr Preetham Boddana
Dr Swe Myint is a consultant endocrinologist at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and honorary associate professor at the University of East Anglia. An elected RCP councillor and PACES examiner, she is strongly committed to leadership, service development and education.
'As an international medical graduate from Myanmar who has worked across a range of healthcare settings, I understand the importance of recognising regional diversity and local priorities.
I look forward to working closely with members and fellows across the region to support locally relevant initiatives, build strong collaborative networks, and deliver meaningful, high-impact work.’
Dr Swe Myint
Dr Mo Aye, consultant endocrinologist at Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, will serve as interim AGD for IMGs. An IMG who qualified in Myanmar, Mo has worked in the NHS for nearly 30 years and is also an honorary senior lecturer at Hull York Medical School.
'I am honoured to take on this role during the time of significant changes in the NHS. Our health service needs a workforce plan that gives doctors the time, support and training they need to do their best work. IMGs bring skill and commitment, and the RCP helps them settle in and succeed through structured placements and clear learning goals.
My priority during this term as AGD is to build on the MTI experience so that more IMGs continue to get good day-to-day support, real development and the chance to thrive in the NHS.’
Dr Mo Aye