Thiruvananthapuram: Dr K.A. Salim, an eminent haematologist and pioneer in medical education, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 86. He was widely respected for establishing the Department of Haematology at Kozhikode Medical College in Kerala and mentoring generations of medical students across the state. Dr. Salim began his illustrious career by earning an MBBS degree from Thiruvananthapuram Medical College in 1963, followed by an MD in General Medicine in 1966. Seeking advanced expertise, he pursued postgraduate training abroad, securing qualifications from the Royal College of Physicians, London (1978), and the Royal College of Pathologists, London (1982), along with several other international fellowships. Also Read:Udupi’s 5-rupee doctor, Dr K P Shetty, passes away at 77According to Mathrubhumi, Dr. Salim is one of the most experienced specialists in the country in the field of blood studies and treatment.Dr. Salim also served as an associate professor at the College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia, and worked as a consultant with the UK’s National Health Service in London, sharing his expertise internationally.Also Read:Eminent radiologist, former NIMS Director Dr Kakarla Subba Rao passes away at 96He is survived by his children, Dr. Shafeeq (Birmingham, UK), Rafiq (Saudi Arabia), Dr. Ashiq, and Dr. Sajik (UK). The funeral will be held on Wednesday at Pettah Juma Masjid in Thiruvananthapuram, reports South First.