Orthopaedic Surgery hosts third annual Bridging the Gaps Outreach Day

March 7, 2025

The University of Missouri Department of Orthopaedic Surgery recently held its third annual Bridging the Gaps Outreach Day at the Missouri Orthopaedic Institute (MOI). The event, open to all middle and high school students with an interest in health professions, featured facility tours, MU clinician-led lectures and hands-on workshops.

More than 100 students across Missouri attended this year’s event, gaining early exposure to a potential future career in health care and orthopaedic surgery. Abdoulie O. Njai, MD, MPH, resident physician, served as the lead event organizer. MU’s Bridging the Gaps Outreach Day has grown since its debut in 2023, highlighted by the 2024 American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeon (AAOS) IDEA Grant™ award to allow event expansion to Kansas City.

Abdoulie O. Njai, MD, MPH, (left) and Rahman Adeulunkele (right) were among the more than 100 students, faculty and staff in attendance at the third annual Bridging the Gaps Outreach Day.

“Our remarkable turnout once again demonstrates the growing interest in medical careers among our state’s youth,” said Njai. “Many students in attendance hadn’t previously considered medicine as a potential career, but we hope to demonstrate that this career path is within their reach. If even one student left today believing they can pursue a career in medicine, then we consider our mission accomplished.”

Rahman Adelunkele, a junior at Hickman High School in Columbia, Missouri, attended his first Bridging the Gaps Outreach Day. After participating in the array of hands-on activities, he left the event inspired and excited to pursue a future in health care.

“I think this program and today’s event is helpful, because I see people who look like me and from different cultures, which is amazing,” said Adelunkele. “Current medical school students and doctors with years of experience took time out of their day to teach us. This will help foster the younger generation and show them that anyone can aspire to achieve medical school. It’s all about putting your mind and heart to it.”

For Njai, the ability to host a popular event like this and hopefully inspire a new generation of doctors continues to drive his passion to impact others.

“My hope is that early exposure and meaningful support can transform career aspirations into achievable goals,” said Njai. “As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain committed to breaking down barriers and creating pathways for the next generation of physicians.”