Professor Hideoki Ogawa Honoured for Advancing Global Dermatology Education and International Collaboration

Abstract

The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) is proud to announce Professor Hideoki Ogawa, Emeritus Professor and CEO of Juntendo University in Japan, as the recipient of the 2025 ILDS Medal of Achievement in Global Dermatology. This prestigious accolade celebrates Professor Ogawa’s significant contribution to dermatology education and his leadership in fostering international collaboration, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.

Professor Ogawa’s distinguished career is defined by initiatives that have significantly advanced dermatological education and practice. Among his many achievements, Professor Ogawa was instrumental in establishing the International Diploma Course in Dermatology and Dermatosurgery (IDCDD) at the Institute of Dermatology in Bangkok, Thailand. Launched in 1984, the IDCDD has provided training to more than 1,000 dermatologists from Asia, Pacific Oceania, and Africa, equipping them with vital skills to enhance dermatological care in their regions.

In addition to his contribution to education, Professor Ogawa has been a driving force in the strengthening of professional ties between dermatologists in Asia. In 2010, he organised the inaugural Japan-China Joint Meeting of Dermatology at Juntendo University, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between the two nations. Since then, he has continued to promote shared learning and research, advancing dermatological science and improving practices in both China and Japan.

The ILDS Medal of Achievement in Global Dermatology, awarded biennially, recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the field of dermatology on a global scale. Professor Ogawa will be presented with his award at the ILDS World Skin Summit, to be held in Cape Town, South Africa, from 24-25 October 2025.  Commenting, he said: “I’m deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the ILDS. It reflects the value of my efforts to advance global dermatology education, particularly in Thailand, and to foster international collaboration, especially between China and Japan. I’m proud to have contributed to improving skin health and building unity among dermatologists worldwide.”

ILDS President, Professor Henry W. Lim, said: “The ILDS is dedicated to achieving skin health for the world. Professor Ogawa’s initiatives have educated more than 1,000 professionals from 39 countries, many of whom now lead dermatology efforts in their countries. His impact on global dermatological education is extraordinary and we congratulate him on receiving this most prestigious and well-deserved recognition.”

The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) represents 217 member societies across 104 countries, encompassing more than 200,000 dermatologists worldwide. Through its official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO), the ILDS advocates for the inclusion of skin health in global health policy. It is committed to advancing education, clinical care, research, and innovation to improve skin health outcomes worldwide. For more information about ILDS and its initiatives, visit ILDS website.