MASAKA.Uganda has been selected to host an International forum on Child and Adolescent Global Health Research and Capacity building.
The Forum scheduled for June 10 to June 17, will bring together leading researchers, policymakers, and community stakeholders to address pressing health challenges facing children and young people.
This year’s Forum planned to take place in Masaka City ,marks the 10th anniversary of this annual convening, building on a decade of collaboration and impact to advance child and adolescent global health research and capacity strengthening.
It is jointly organised by the McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research at New York University (USA), the International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD) in Uganda, and the IMPACT Global Center at Washington University in St. Louis.
The week-long occasion is expected to attract approximately 100 international and regional participants, alongside over 400 Ugandan community stakeholders from Masaka and surrounding districts, including the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education and Sports.
“The forum will spotlight key issues affecting Ugandan communities, including,HIV and adolescent health,Mental health and wellbeing,Poverty and its impact on families,Maternal and child heal, Emerging health threats such as pandemics and climate-related risks,” a statement issued by the International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD),reads in part
“Through panel discussions, research presentations, and community engagements, the Forum will provide a platform for sharing evidence-based solutions and strengthening collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and local communities,” it adds
Maltina Grace Nanyanzi, the communications officer at ICHAD-Uganda ,said international participants will have direct engagement with Ugandan communities involved in ongoing research programs.
“Community members and local leaders will share their experiences and insights, ensuring that discussions reflect real-life challenges and solutions,” she said , adding
“During the Forum, participants also visit research sites in the Greater Masaka region to observe how evidence-based interventions are improving the lives of children, adolescents, and families.”
The Forum will additionally mark the launch of the STREAMS study, a new research initiative aimed at advancing child and adolescent health outcomes