University Of Sharjah Launches Inaugural International Public Health Conference To Address Key Health Challenges

The University of Sharjah (UoS) recently hosted the inaugural International Public Health Conference (IPHC), organised by its Center of Excellence for Public Health. The event, themed "Driving Innovation, Engagement, and Collaboration for a Healthier UAE," aimed to tackle pressing public health issues. It gathered experts from various fields to discuss solutions that align with the UAE's vision of leading in public health innovation.

Prof. Esameldin Agamy, Chancellor of UoS, expressed gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi for his ongoing support. He emphasised that the conference underscores the university's dedication to enhancing public health as vital for national well-being and sustainable development. The university offers over 40 programmes in medicine and allied health sciences, backed by research centres.

Prof. Basema Saddik, Director of CEPH, highlighted that the conference concentrated on three main pillars: innovation, engagement, and collaboration. Participants discussed digital health, data-driven strategies, and evidence-based practices to address health challenges in the UAE and beyond. These discussions aimed at fostering a collaborative approach to public health priorities.

The conference featured workshops and panel discussions covering diverse topics such as strengthening UAE public health systems and AI applications in medicine. Other sessions addressed non-communicable disease prevention and environmental health risks associated with climate change. These sessions provided a platform for sharing knowledge and exploring new ideas.

Prof. Qutayba Hamid, Vice-Chancellor for Medical and Health Sciences Colleges, noted the importance of accurate data collection on chronic and acute diseases through partnerships. This effort supports understanding disease patterns locally and internationally. Such data is crucial for developing effective healthcare strategies tailored to specific community needs.

Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice-Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, described the conference as essential for building partnerships and promoting applied research to meet societal needs. He pointed out the increasing role of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in addressing healthcare challenges and improving medical services.

Engagement Through Workshops

The event included a scientific poster exhibition showcasing innovative research projects from various participants. A ceremony was also held to honour keynote speakers and sponsors who contributed significantly to the conference's success. These activities fostered engagement among attendees while recognising valuable contributions.

The University of Sharjah's commitment to advancing public health through education and research was evident throughout the conference. By focusing on practical strategies like managing chronic diseases and promoting mental health, UoS aims to make a meaningful impact on public health both locally and regionally.

With inputs from WAM