The Indian Association of Gastrointestinal Endosurgeons (IAGES), India’s oldest and largest professional association dedicated to minimally invasive surgery, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd), to establish a long-term academic collaboration.According to a press release, the LOI was signed in Chennai on July 12 by K. Govindaraj, president of IAGES. The delegation from the RCSEd was led by president Claire McNaught. The collaboration is aimed at strengthening academic and professional ties between the two institutions and promote excellence in surgical education, training, and research.Quarterly joint academic webinars and educational programmes, exchange opportunities for fellowship, observership, and training candidates between India and the UK and accreditation of selected IAGES educational courses by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh are among the areas of cooperation outlined in the LOI.Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Govindaraj said, “By bringing together the expertise and educational strengths of both institutions, we aim to create valuable opportunities for surgeons, trainees, and researchers while enhancing the standards of minimally invasive surgical practice and education.” Published - July 14, 2026 07:52 pm IST