by Maleeha Sofi
SRINAGAR: In a proud moment for the global medical fraternity and the Kashmiri diaspora, Professor Noor Ul Owase Jeelani, one of the world’s foremost experts in craniofacial reconstructive and craniopagus separation surgery, has been awarded the prestigious MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in the King’s Birthday Honours List.
Professor Jeelani, who was born in Kashmir and did his schooling in Srinagar, has earned international acclaim for his pioneering work in paediatric neurosurgery, particularly for leading complex procedures to separate craniopagus twins—conjoined twins fused at the skull. Based at the Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London, he has not only led groundbreaking surgeries but also founded the charity Gemini Untwined, through which he performs these life-saving interventions around the world.
“It is an honour to receive this MBE,” Jeelani said in a statement, expressing his gratitude to colleagues at GOSH, University College London, and Gemini Untwined. “This recognition is not just a reflection of my work, but of the dedication and passion of every colleague and team member who has been part of this journey. All children are equally precious, and it is our collective responsibility to look after them.”
Jeelani joined GOSH in 2000 and served as Head of the Department of Neurosurgery between 2012 and 2018. During his tenure, he played a key role in transforming the unit into one of the largest and most advanced paediatric neurosurgery departments in the world. His work has involved not just UK-based surgeries but also missions abroad, supported by Gemini Untwined, that bring cutting-edge neurosurgical expertise to regions with limited access to such healthcare.
The MBE awarded to him recognises his services to neurosurgery and global child health. The honour, part of the British order of chivalry established by King George V in 1917, acknowledges individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the United Kingdom and the broader Commonwealth, particularly in fields such as the arts, sciences, charitable work, and public service.
As a Consultant Paediatric Neurosurgeon, he performs some 200 cases annually with a range of specialities including craniopagus surgery, craniofacial surgery, neuro-oncology, and cerebrospinal fluid and intracranial pressure pathologies. His main research interests are the use of AI in surgical prediction modelling, augmented reality and the development of novel surgical distraction devices aimed at making surgery safer, more efficient and outcomes predictable.
‘I Wanted These Children to Have the Childhood That Was Denied to Me’
Alongside Professor Jeelani, James Hatchley, a former Non-Executive Director at GOSH, was also awarded an MBE. Hatchley, who served on the GOSH board from 2016 to 2022, has been instrumental in fundraising for the hospital’s charity in memory of his daughter, Emma. Through his initiative “Team Hatch”, Hatchley has raised over £1.2 million, funding advanced medical equipment and research into rare childhood diseases.
While Hatchley’s recognition highlights extraordinary civilian contributions through philanthropy, Professor Jeelani’s MBE spotlights a life of dedicated medical innovation and humanitarian outreach.
For Kashmiris worldwide, Professor Jeelani’s achievements stand as a beacon of excellence, a symbol of how roots from the valley can flower into global service at the highest levels of human endeavour. Owais Jeelani, it may be recalled here, is the grandson of Prof Noorudin, who served as the first VC of Kashmir University.
