1951

The International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA) was founded shortly after the Second World War in Copenhagen, Denmark.

2009

Medical student organisations from Ghent (SWISS), Antwerp and Leuven decided to unite and form the Belgian Medical Students 'Association. BeMSA became a full member of the IFMSA (International Federation of Medical Students' Associations) in 2013, which gave Belgian medical students access to a global network of contacts and unique opportunities.

2011

BeMSA unites medical students across universities and coordinates IFMSA‑related work. Because SWISS’ activities matched these goals, it transitioned into BeMSA Ghent. The new name avoids confusion and strengthens IFMSA visibility in Ghent. BeMSA Ghent now keeps its local projects while collaborating nationally.

2011

The first Teddy Bear Hospital in Ghent was organized by UGent medical students. Children brought their teddy bears for playful “medical check‑ups”. Students guided them through simple exams and treatments. The aim was to reduce fear of doctors and hospitals. Kids learned about healthcare in a safe, fun setting. The project has since grown and has been organized for over 15 years.

History of Teddy Bear Hospital

2012

Professional Exchanges through the Standing Committee on Professional Exchange (SCOPE) are initiated, a large step forward with an even larger impact on the students. Since the start of SCOPE hundreds of students went on a professional exchange abroad to trade knowledge and culture. The ability to do research exchanges through BeMSA, would come two years later in 2014 through SCORE.

2013

BeMSA became a full member of IFMSA (International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations), giving Belgian students access to the global IFMSA network.

2014

One of SCORA’s most well-known events is raising awareness about HIV & AIDS on national awareness days. This project has been organised since the SWISS era and continues to this day.

History of the BeMSA's World AIDS Day

2016

SCORP within BeMSA Gent organises the first SCORP-led edition of Sports with People with a Disability, an inclusive event that has existed in Ghent for about 10 years. The initiative traditionally brings medical students and people with disabilities together through shared sports activities. Its goal is both social inclusion for participants and training students in communication and empathy. What is new is that SCORP now formally integrates and leads the project under a human rights framework. This strengthens the focus on inclusion, dignity, and equal participation in society. The event thus evolves from a local tradition into a more structured SCORP human-rights initiative.

2026

BeMSA Ghent upgrades its website, strictly following their corporate identity guidelines. The new website is designed to be more user-friendly, visually appealing, and informative. It serves as a central hub for students, partners, and the public to learn about BeMSA Ghent's activities, projects, and impact.

2026

Today, BeMSA Ghent continues to grow and evolve with new initiatives, projects, and collaborations. The organization remains committed to empowering medical students, promoting global health, and fostering a sense of community and social responsibility.