Great challenges await the gynaecologist in the 21st century. While advances in medical technology necessitate that gynaecology move more towards a medical discipline than a surgical one, gynaecologists will be expected to play an increasingly important role in the modern woman's life. This fundamental change is influenced by four main factors, namely, the world's aging population, spread of information technology, advances in molecular based medical therapy, and the changing lifestyle of the woman in the next century. Our role cannot get any lesser as we continue to advise, educate and facilitate the lives of women, and we must aspire a new generation of responsible gynaecologists to continue this ambition.