Professor Ken Boffard, chief specialist and clinical head of surgery at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, has been elected world president of the International Society of Surgery (ISS).

Founded in 1902, the ISS represents general and specialist surgeons in 108 countries and is the largest and oldest global surgical organisation. As a South African, Boffard is the first African to be elected world president in the organisation's 110 years of existence.

Professor Boffard will lead the organisation during 2010 and 2011. Speaking of his appointment, he said, "This offers an opportunity to join existing resources worldwide in improving surgical education in situations where it is not necessary available."

Boffard trained for in medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand, where he is the currently chief specialist and clinical head of surgery. He worked in the United Kingdom before returning with his knowledge and skills to one of South Africa busiest trauma centres at Charlotte Maxeke, Johannesburg Hospital.

His specialities include vascular trauma, critical care, trauma systems and trauma education. He is the former World President of the International Association for Trauma Surgery and Intensive Care.

"The election of Prof Boffard to the highest office of this world organisation is proof yet again of the calibre of health professionals and the high level of expertise that we have in the public health sector, said Qedani Mahlangu, the country's Gauteng provincial minister for Health and Social Development.

Professor Boffard was awarded SA Man of the Week on 12 April 2010 on www.samen.co.za. Read full article.