At SIOP, we celebrate opportunities that build capacity and foster global collaboration in paediatric oncology. The St. Jude Global Academy in Pediatric Onco-Critical Care (GA-POCC) is a comprehensive programme designed to equip clinicians with the skills and knowledge to improve outcomes for critically ill children with cancer, especially in low-resource settings. In this blog, Ahmed Kamal Bayoumi, SIOP Ambassador and member of the Young SIOP Network Steering Group (2024–2026), shares his transformative experience with GA-POCC, including the invaluable onsite symposium held in London.

“As a Paediatric Oncologist, I had the privilege of participating in the St. Jude Global Academy in Pediatric Onco-Critical Care (GA-POCC)—a transformative experience that significantly enriched my clinical competencies in managing critically ill children with cancer.

The programme’s structure covered a wide spectrum of critical care principles specific to paediatric oncology, including topics such as Sepsis, Respiratory Failure, Oncologic Emergencies, and End-of-life Care. Each module was evidence-based and delivered with a strong emphasis on adapting interventions to low-resource settings, which is particularly relevant to the challenges in my own clinical practice.

What made the experience even more impactful was the opportunity to attend the onsite symposium in London, where I had the chance to engage face-to-face with international experts and fellow participants from across the globe. This immersive environment fostered deeper discussions, collaborative case reviews, and practical skill-building sessions that enhanced the online learning. The London onsite component not only reinforced key clinical concepts but also strengthened professional connections within the global pediatric onco-critical care community.

Additionally, the live weekly virtual sessions throughout the course facilitated real-time interaction with mentors and peers, creating a dynamic and collaborative learning atmosphere. I was particularly inspired by the focus on quality improvement strategies and how small, system-based changes can lead to measurable impacts in patient outcomes.

Completion of the GA-POCC also provided pathways to further opportunities, such as participation in research initiatives, and long-term mentorship in quality improvement. It has greatly empowered me to initiate similar improvements in my institution.”

Ahmed Kamal Bayoumi
Young SIOP Network Steering Group member ( Oct 2024 – 2026)
SIOP Ambassador

The Global Academy in Pediatric Onco-Critical Care is available to paediatric intensive care physicians and other providers who specialise in the care of critically ill children with cancer or other catastrophic diseases. English fluency is required to participate in the course.

The course is offered once per year, with applications open for a brief period each spring. To apply, candidates must submit an online application, an English-language CV and a letter of support from their direct supervisor. To learn more about how and when to apply, join the GCCP mailing list or email globalcriticalcare@stjude.org.