Presidential New Year’s Message from WOFAPS

Dear Colleagues and Friends of WOFAPS,

As we welcome the New Year, I extend my warmest greetings and sincere best wishes to all members of the global pediatric surgical community. This moment offers an opportunity to reflect on our shared achievements and to reaffirm our collective commitment to advancing the care of children worldwide.

In the context of increasingly complex international developments—marked by geopolitical uncertainty, disparities in healthcare access, and evolving global health challenges—the importance of international cooperation has never been greater. WOFAPS remains firmly dedicated to strengthening collaboration across borders, fostering mutual understanding, and supporting the exchange of knowledge and expertise among pediatric surgeons and allied
professionals around the world.

One of the highlights of the past year was the highly successful 8th World Meeting of Pediatric Surgery, held November 2025 in Antalya, Turkiye. This outstanding event brought together colleagues from diverse regions, facilitated high-level scientific exchange, and reaffirmed the unifying spirit of our specialty. The quality of the academic program, the breadth of participation, and the collegial atmosphere made this meeting a milestone for WOFAPS.

Looking ahead, WOFAPS will continue to expand its activities through numerous upcoming initiatives, including WOFAPS-endorsed international meetings across different continents and the further development of WOFAPS support programs.

These programs are designed to promote education, capacity building, training opportunities, and equitable access to pediatric surgical care. We encourage all members to engage actively with these opportunities and to contribute to the shared mission of improving outcomes for children everywhere.

On behalf of the WOFAPS leadership, I thank you for your continued dedication, collaboration, and trust. May the New Year bring your health, fulfilment, and continued success in your professional and personal endeavours.

With kind regards and best wishes for the New Year,
Udo Rolle
President