Trainee Reports: Asian Urology Residents' Course 2025

As announced earlier this year, a number of USANZ Trainees were selected to attend an international training meeting. This opportunity is enabled through partnerships between USANZ and the European Association of Urology (EAU), Canadian Urological Association (CUA), and Urological Association of Asia (UAA), with the generous support of Ipsen contributing to travel costs.

Ahead of the UAA 2025 Congress, the Asian Urology Residents' Course (AURC) was held in Taipei, Taiwan from 12-14 August. Michael Chen and Allen Chen were selected to represent USANZ at both events.

We're pleased to share both Michael's and Allen's reports on their attendance below. 

Report: Allen Chen Attends UAA & AURC 2025

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to represent our society at the 9th Asian Urology Residents’ Course (AURC) and the 22nd Urological Association of Asia (UAA) Congress in Taipei, Taiwan. This program proved to be an invaluable experience, offering a unique blend of high-quality education, international networking, and cultural immersion.

The AURC is tailored for select senior urology trainees from across Asia. Much like our own yearly USANZ Trainee Week, the course provided an intensive and comprehensive review of urology, with a focus on preparing for fellowship examinations. The three-day program was expertly structured, featuring a mix of trainee-led case discussions, presentations from regional experts, and insightful lectures from distinguished members of the American Urological Association (AUA). The curriculum covered a broad spectrum of topics, including uro-oncology, stones, paediatrics, and andrology, with a particular emphasis on emerging technologies and surgical techniques in the Asian context, in particular the highlight of emerging technologies with the assistance of artificial intelligence.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the course was the opportunity to connect with peers from a diverse range of countries. Engaging in discussions with trainees from across Asia, I was struck by how, despite our different healthcare systems and cultural backgrounds, we share remarkably similar clinical challenges and a common passion for urology. These interactions not only broadened my perspective on the global practice of our specialty but also helped forge new friendships and professional connections that I am sure will last for years to come.

Beyond the conference halls, Taipei was a magnificent host city. The social events were a highlight, providing a relaxed setting to get to know fellow attendees and faculty. A particularly memorable evening was the group dinner at the Wooloomooloo restaurant, offering an Aussie vibe and great atmosphere for conversation. In addition to the organised events, exploring Taipei's vibrant night markets and rich cultural heritage during our downtime added another fantastic dimension to the trip.

This experience was both professionally and personally enriching. It expanded my clinical knowledge, broadened my global network, and left me with a deeper appreciation for the international urological community. I would strongly encourage other trainees to apply for this exchange in the future.

Finally, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand (USANZ) and our sponsor, Ipsen, for their generous support which made this fantastic experience possible.

USANZ thanks Allen for preparing this report and supplying the photos above.

Report: Michael Chen Attends UAA & AURC 2025

I had the privilege of attending the Asian Urology Residents' Course in Taipei this year, which was a fantastic opportunity to learn, share, and connect with colleagues from across the Asia–Pacific.

The program included a great mix of talks from local Taiwanese urologists and invited faculty from the American Urological Association. The UAA meeting sessions were particularly memorable, with excellent presentations on topics such as single-port robotics, artificial intelligence, and telesurgery—all giving a glimpse into the future of our field.

A real highlight for me was hearing how training differs across countries. Many of my colleagues described far more exposure to open operating, particularly for stone disease, and it was eye-opening to see how surgeons adapt their approaches in resource-limited settings. These conversations really broadened my perspective on the diversity of urological practice worldwide.

The social program also stood out. The residents’ dinner at a local restaurant was a great chance to meet others in a relaxed setting, and exploring Taipei with fellow trainees made the whole experience even more enjoyable.

I’m very grateful to Ipsen for supporting my attendance. Their sponsorship made this experience possible and is greatly appreciated.

USANZ thanks Michael for preparing this report and supplying the photos above.