The University of Pretoria's Faculty of Health Sciences has once again pushed the boundaries of healthcare education by hosting the second instalment of its ground-breaking transdisciplinary competition, SIMUPWars 2023. This extraordinary event, held on September 20, 2023, showcased ten six-member transdisciplinary teams competing in resuscitation simulations, marking a remarkable collaboration between private sector businesses and the Faculty of Health Sciences.

In a heroic entrance befitting the occasion, the Faculty Dean arrived at the event venue in the MediCare response care car, setting the stage for an unforgettable day of transdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare education.

Unlike traditional SIMWARS competitions that focus solely on patient management in the Emergency Department (ED), SIMUPWars is a unique healthcare simulation competition. It brings together undergraduate students from diverse disciplines, including BCMP, Sports Medicine, Medicine, and Nursing Science programmes, with an unwavering passion for healthcare. This event provided a thrilling journey of collaboration, learning, and innovation, all within the realm of real-life, high-pressure scenarios.

Professor Tiaan de Jager, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, described SIMUPWars as more than just an event or competition. "It's an adventurous journey into the heart of healthcare simulation," he emphasised.

SIMUPWars is the brainchild of Professor Ronel Herselman, head of the Undergraduate Skills Laboratories & Surgical Skills Training Centre. Her visionary leadership and commitment to innovation in healthcare education laid the foundation for this ground-breaking event. Built upon the success of CPR Day 2019 and last year’s SimUp Wars, this version is an even more immersive, educational, and heart-warming experience.

Among the enthusiastic participants was Rocket Hems, a unique unaffiliated Rotary air ambulance service with a deep commitment to patient care.

One of the most anticipated showdowns at SIMUPWars was between Rocket HEMS, a unique unaffiliated Rotary air ambulance service, and the University of Pretoria's Department of Emergency Medicine. The competition simulated emergency medical situations, testing the participants' skills, decision-making, and teamwork under demanding conditions, highlighting the dedication and resilience of these healthcare heroes.

Johann Horn, a representative from Rocket HEMS, stressed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, stating, "We want to improve interdisciplinary relationships, create a new avenue for medical education, and, of course, have fun while learning."

Rocket HEMS recognises the need for a collaborative approach in healthcare education, especially in the field of Aviation Medicine, offering a unique perspective that few have the opportunity to experience. Their involvement in SIMUPWars aims to break down silos within healthcare disciplines, ultimately resulting in better patient care.

Among the key contributors to this innovative event, Mr. First Aid, a leading distributor of medical devices and consumables throughout Southern Africa, played a pivotal role in elevating SIMUPWars to new heights. Sean Groome, a representative from Mr. First Aid, emphasised their commitment to education and innovation through simulation.

Survival Technology, a longstanding partner of the UP clinical skills unit, also played a significant role by supplying medical simulators and models that support clinical training across various healthcare professions. Their involvement highlights the importance of simulation technology in clinical training.

Professor Herselman, expressed her vision for further ground-breaking initiatives in healthcare simulation and innovation, hinting at future simulation competition  with other universities. The event was accessible online, with participants from overseas joining virtually. Professor. Loretta Feris, Vice-Principal: Academic at the University of Pretoria (UP), also attended the event.

SIMUPWars 2023 exemplified a commitment to excellence in healthcare and celebrated the power of collaboration and innovation. Participants, faculty, and industry partners left with a profound sense of accomplishment, knowing they had been part of a transformational moment in healthcare education.

As SIMUPWars 2023 came to a close, participants, sponsors, and organisers gathered to celebrate an exceptional day of transdisciplinary healthcare education and collaboration. The event's success was attributed to the dedication of many individuals and organisations.

Professor Vanessa Steenkamp took the stage to acknowledge their contributions, expressing gratitude to the participants and highlighting the event's potential to go international in the future, impacting healthcare education globally. She extended her appreciation to the Faculty of Health Sciences, all staff involved and special guests.

The event concluded on a high note, with participants leaving with a sense of accomplishment and a shared commitment to advancing healthcare education through innovation and collaboration, setting the stage for even greater achievements in the future.

Winners: Team Heartbeat Heroes

- Second place: Team Bloody Angels

- Third place: Team Resus Angels

- Best Dressed Team: Resus Rangers