Inclusive Mass Circumcision Program at Universitas Andalas Hospital Expands Access to Services for Children with Special Needs in Support of SDG 3 and SDG 10

Universitas Andalas Hospital once again organized a mass circumcision program for children with special needs as part of the 69th Dies Natalis series of Universitas Andalas. The three-day activity was held in collaboration with Inisiatif Zakat Indonesia West Sumatra and the Forum Komunikasi Orang Tua Anak Spesial Padang, beginning with medical screening on August 26, 2025, followed by circumcision procedures on August 27–28, 2025. The official opening took place on August 27, 2025, at the third-floor hall of Universitas Andalas Hospital.

During the program, the screening process involved a team of specialist doctors consisting of surgeons, pediatricians, and anesthesiologists. Also in attendance was Heni Yunida, Head of the Social Rehabilitation Division, representing the Governor of West Sumatra, along with representatives from the Ministry of Religious Affairs of West Sumatra Province. The presence of various stakeholders underscored that healthcare services for children with special needs require both medical support and strong social collaboration so that their benefits can reach a wider community.

Chair of the Community Service Committee for the 69th Dies Natalis of Universitas Andalas, Dr. dr. Rhandika Rafly, Sp.OnkRad., explained that the activity formed part of Universitas Andalas Hospital’s commitment to community service. He also noted that, in addition to the mass circumcision program, the hospital had prepared a range of other social initiatives, including free surgeries, blood donation activities, webinars, and health education programs. This highlights that the event was not a standalone effort, but part of the university’s broader social role in expanding public access to services.

Director of Universitas Andalas Hospital, Dr. dr. Muhammad Riendra, Sp.BTKV, Subsp.VE (K), FIATCS, added that the circumcision program for special children has become an annual routine, with this year marking its seventh implementation. To date, more than 100 children with special needs have participated in the program at Universitas Andalas Hospital. This year, all participants also received financial support from Majelis Taqwa Telkomsel, while attendees came not only from Padang City but also from other areas such as Sawahlunto.

This activity is closely related to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), as it emphasizes the importance of accessible and properly prepared healthcare services for all children, including those with special needs. At the same time, it also reflects SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), as the collaboration among Universitas Andalas Hospital, IZI Sumbar, and FORKASI Padang conveys the message that children with special needs have equal rights, including in carrying out their religious obligations. Under the theme “Disability Circumcision: Unlimited Care for a Great Generation,” the program demonstrated how inclusive healthcare services can be built through synergy among health institutions, communities, and social partners.