World Anatomy Day is a joint initiative of IFAA and national anatomical societies. At the 19th IFAA Congress held in London in August 2019, the IFAA Congress decided to observe World Anatomy Day on 15 October every year.
On this day, Visalius, the father of anatomy, died in 1564. World Anatomy Day is an occasion to celebrate the discipline of anatomy and to make countries around the world aware of its important role in training health science professionals. Depending on the needs of the countries concerned and the interest of the academy, this could be celebrated as a week-long event starting 15 October. All IFAA member associations are required to schedule their own events, such as public lectures, departmental open days, national media appearances and press events. The objectives of the activities include: - enhancing anatomical awareness in society; - Promoting the diversity of disciplines; -- Changing the understanding of anatomy; -- Thank the donor; - May help to address the current donor shortage; -- Attracting young scientists into anatomy.
