Bangladeshi spine surgeon wins prestigious global scoliosis fellowship

In a landmark achievement for Bangladesh’s orthopaedic community, Dr Sharif Ahmed Jonayed, associate professor of spine surgery at the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), has been selected for the 2026 Robert B. Winter Global Outreach Fellowship by the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS), becoming the first Bangladeshi surgeon to receive the honour.

The fellowship—considered one of the most prestigious recognitions in the field of spinal deformity surgery—will allow Dr Jonayed to undergo four to six weeks of advanced, hands-on training at a leading global spine deformity centre. The programme, which must be completed by June 2027, is designed to enhance clinical expertise and facilitate knowledge exchange among top-tier spine specialists worldwide.

The SRS will provide financial support of up to $12,000 to cover travel, accommodation, and related expenses for the fellowship, underscoring its commitment to fostering global surgical capacity in scoliosis care.

Reacting to the recognition, Dr Jonayed described the award as a collective achievement. “This is not my achievement alone—it belongs to every scoliosis patient and my mentors,” he said, acknowledging the guidance of internationally renowned spine surgeons who shaped his journey.

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Scoliosis is a side-to-side curve of your spine. This differs from your body's natural front-to-back curve. It's usually mild and doesn't cause symptoms, but it can lead to back pain and abnormal posture.

Scoliosis, a condition characterised by abnormal curvature of the spine, often requires complex surgical intervention in severe cases. In Bangladesh, access to specialised treatment remains limited, particularly for underprivileged patients.

Despite significant resource constraints, Dr Jonayed and his team at NITOR have been performing complex scoliosis correction surgeries, offering hope to patients who would otherwise have limited treatment options.

Building on this milestone, Dr Jonayed has called for broader public and institutional support to strengthen scoliosis care in the country. He emphasised the need for sponsorship programmes for disadvantaged patients, investment in modern surgical equipment, and the establishment of a dedicated scoliosis clinic.

He also urged the media to highlight the challenges faced by untreated patients. “Please tell the stories of children hidden at home because of a curved spine. Together, we can end this neglect,” he said.

The Scoliosis Research Society, an international organisation dedicated to the optimal care of patients with spinal deformities, awards the Robert B. Winter Fellowship to surgeons demonstrating excellence and commitment in this highly specialised field.

For Bangladesh, Dr Jonayed’s selection signals not only individual distinction but also a growing recognition of the country’s capabilities in advanced orthopaedic and spine surgery.