Born: 31 December 1941, Palau
Died: NA
Country most active: Palau
Also known as: NA
Ulai Trudy Otobed is a renowned Palauan physician and a groundbreaking figure in the field of medicine. In 1965, she became the first Micronesian woman to qualify as a doctor.
Born to Berenges Oiterong and Taurengel Otobed, Ulai Trudy Otobed grew up in a family of six children on the Palauan island of Babeldaob. Her educational journey began in Ngeremlengui, progressing through Palau Intermediate School and Pacific Islands Central School. She was accepted into the Central Medical School in Fiji, commencing her medical training in 1960.
Besides her accomplishments in medicine, Otobed showcased her versatility as a table tennis player. She secured a gold medal with the Fiji table tennis team at the 1963 South Pacific Games and further demonstrated her prowess by becoming the Fijian national champion in women’s singles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles in 1964.
Otobed’s dedication to excellence continued as she graduated from the Central Medical School in 1965, earning prestigious awards for academic excellence. Her medical career flourished with a two-year internship, additional training in New Zealand, and further studies at the University of Auckland. She received a diploma in obstetrics and gynaecology and returned to Palau, contributing significantly to healthcare.
Otobed’s global pursuit of knowledge led her to Mysore Medical College in India, where she obtained a BSc in medicine and surgery. Her commitment to medical excellence was underscored by passing the American Examination for Foreign Medical Graduates in 1977. Returning to Palau, she served as a physician in Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Family Planning at McDonald Memorial Hospital, eventually becoming the Head of Clinical Services at the national hospital. Beyond her medical contributions, Otobed actively participated in the Palau National Scholarship Board.
Ulai Trudy Otobed’s life and career stand as a testament to her pioneering spirit, breaking barriers both in medicine and sports.