Academically Global is a healthcare Edtech, that provides comprehensive training for international licensure examinations for healthcare professionals including Pharmacists, Doctors, Dentists, Nurses, Physiotherapists, Optometrists and more. It also provides migration and placement support to help healthcare professionals in pursuing their careers overseas.
Dr Akram Ahmad, a clinical research scientist, professor, and Founder CEO of Academically Global in an interaction with Express Healthcare shares his journey, vision and the vital role his organisation plays in supporting healthcare professionals pursuing international opportunities
What inspired you to establish this organisation? What gaps did you identify in training and migration support for healthcare professionals?
During my PhD from the faculty of medicine and health, the University of Sydney, Australia, I encountered many students from India—pharmacists, medical doctors—working odd jobs like driving taxis or working in small stores. They came on study visas through agents who prioritised commissions over students’ futures. Many of these students had taken loans or sold land to fund their education but lacked proper guidance to secure jobs in their field.
This realisation began during a conversation with an Uber driver, a qualified pharmacist in India who was unaware of the licensing exam required in Australia. I guided him, and he eventually became a practicing pharmacist. These experiences motivated me to start helping healthcare professionals navigate the complex migration process.
How did you transition from helping individuals to starting an organisation?
It began in 2018 when I made a video explaining the process of becoming a licensed healthcare professional in Australia. The response was overwhelming, and people began reaching out for guidance. While continuing my government job in Australia, I dedicated time to making videos and answering queries.
Eventually, with my wife’s support, I decided to establish a platform to provide structured support. Initially, I managed everything—marketing, sales, video creation—but as demand grew, I focused entirely on the organisation, leaving my government job – and that’s how Academically was born.
What kind of services does your organisation offer to healthcare professionals?
Academically Global provides comprehensive guidance and training to healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, doctors, and nurses, helping them navigate the complex process of securing licensure and employment in countries like Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the Gulf, Ireland, and Canada. We specialize in preparing candidates for critical licensing exams such as the OPRA exam for pharmacists, AMC for doctors, and other country-specific assessments for various healthcare verticals. Our services go beyond exam preparation—we offer end-to-end support, including assistance with visa applications, interview preparation, and job placement assistance, ensuring our clients not only pass exams but also secure permanent positions and pathways to residency.
Which countries are the most challenging for healthcare professionals to migrate to, and how does your organisation help?
Countries like Australia, New Zealand and Ireland have rigorous licensing exams, but we provide comprehensive training to bridge these gaps. One advantage is that some exams can now be taken from their home country, reducing financial and logistical barriers. We make sure to be very transparent and only provide training for licensing exams for countries where there is both a demand as well as a streamlined pathway for migration.
What challenges do healthcare professionals face when pursuing international careers, and how does your organisation address them?
The major challenges include a lack of awareness about licensing requirements, insufficient practical knowledge, and language barriers. We address these through targeted training programs, mock tests using adaptive AI, and courses to improve communication skills, especially for students from non-English medium backgrounds.
How do you see technology, like AI, transforming healthcare education?
AI is a game-changer. We use adaptive AI for mock tests, offering personalised feedback and enhancing learning efficiency. AI can also simplify complex topics, such as cardiovascular and nervous systems, making them easier to grasp for students.
Do you notice a significant number of students from tier 2 and 3 cities seeking your services?
Yes, a majority of our students come from tier 2 and 3 cities, including UP, Bihar, and Haryana. Many are Hindi-medium students who excel academically but struggle with English proficiency. We help them clear not only their pharmacy and medical exams but also language tests.
Communication is a critical skill often overlooked in Indian healthcare education. Many students from government or non-English medium schools struggle to express their knowledge, which becomes a barrier when working abroad. We focus on improving their language and interpersonal skills to prepare them for global opportunities.
What are your future plans for the organisation?
We aim to expand our services to more countries, particularly in Europe, where healthcare professionals are in high demand. Our goal is to bridge the gap between unemployment in India and some countries and the global need for skilled healthcare professionals. Over the next five years, we plan to launch new courses for upskilling and collaborate with more international institutions.
Any advice for young professionals aspiring to build international careers?
Internships are game-changers for young professionals aiming for international careers. Based on my experience in Malaysia and Australia, internships at every stage provide critical skills, real-world exposure, and a deeper understanding of your field. In India, this hands-on experience is often overlooked, but it can set you apart. Alongside internships, engaging in research projects and publishing papers strengthens your academic profile and boosts your chances for scholarships and higher studies. With the right guidance and early exam preparation, students can unlock vast opportunities globally. Practical experience, not just academic excellence, is the key to success.