DED's primary function is faculty development for improved Health Professions Education (HPE). It is responsible for introducing new initiatives and the philosophical underpinnings for improvement of educational programmes. The department focuses on areas of educational pedagogy, including innovative curricula, new instructional strategies, use of e-learning and web-based resources, innovative and appropriate assessment methods, and evaluation of educational programmes. Its initiatives include retreats, workshops, sessions and courses in HPE. Additionally, the department participates in key educational committees and in curricular activities and serves as a resource for educational research in health sciences education. DED is also responsible for developing leaders in HPE.