The Department of Surgery was pleased to welcome Dr. Miguel Gasakure, General Surgery Residency Program Director at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK), Rwanda, for a departmental visit. This marked the first visit in a new bidirectional clinical exchange between UVA and CHUK. As a university teaching hospital, CHUK is involved in medical education and training. It serves as a teaching hospital for the University of Rwanda.
During his visit, Dr. Gasakure observed UVA’s approach to resident education, participated in clinical activities, and met with faculty to discuss opportunities for collaboration in surgical training and research. The visit also coincided with the announcement of resident Robbie Devich, MD (pictured right) as the first UVA resident selected for the new Global Surgery Clinical Track. Robbie will complete a four-week rotation at CHUK in May 2026, part of a multi-year clinical and scholarly pathway designed to strengthen UVA’s international surgery partnerships. This exchange program is led by Drs. Jade Nunez, Adanna Akujuo, and Joshua Gazzetta, whose vision for global collaboration continues to expand UVA Surgery’s reach and impact.
A Conversation with Dr. Miguel Gasakure
What is your role at your home institution?
I’m an attending surgeon in the general surgery unit at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK). I work in the clinic, operating room, and take night call. I also serve as the program director for the University of Rwanda’s General Surgery Residency Program, which means I make sure residents receive their training on time, have access to study materials, and are properly supported throughout their rotations. I allocate clinical rotations based on each trainee’s year and help them develop research projects, often connecting them with mentors both locally and internationally.
What have you done during your visit to UVA?
This week, I’ve had the chance to follow UVA residents throughout their days—from morning education meetings to patient rounds and operating room cases. I was even able to observe one emergency case and see how it was managed, which was very interesting.
Most of my time has been spent discussing medical education with leadership and program directors, networking, and identifying ways both institutions can benefit from this exchange, whether through joint research projects or resident rotations. We’re working to set up a structure where our residents can visit UVA for observation experiences, and UVA residents can complete hands-on clinical rotations at CHUK.
Has anything surprised you during your visit?
Yes—the day starts very early! I realized we were already on our third case by 9 a.m. It was impressive, though I thought it would make for a very long day! I was also struck by the sense of companionship and friendship among the residents, regardless of seniority. They also take real ownership of the program and are deeply involved in teaching medical students. I was impressed by the autonomy they have in patient care and in the OR. The attendings are very supportive and always nearby for teaching or reviewing, but the residents are able to take the lead.
Another thing that really stood out was the culture of recognition here. I’ve seen awards given not only to residents but also to nurses, and even some from patients themselves. That kind of recognition is low cost but high impact. It builds morale and creates a positive environment for everyone, including patients.
What are the next steps for the exchange program?
One of our residents will visit UVA in fall 2026, following Robbie Devich’s rotation at CHUK in May 2026. Robbie will be able to obtain a medical license in Rwanda, while our residents will participate in observational experiences at UVA. I’d like to establish a structure that allows our residents to use their time here for research purposes, connecting them with UVA mentors who can help guide their thesis projects. This will ensure both sides benefit academically as well as clinically.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience?
Charlottesville is a beautiful city. I like that it’s close to large cities and historical sites, but you still feel part of the campus community. I think when our residents come, they’ll really enjoy the experience.