Manipal: The Manipal Model WHO 2018, jointly organised by Manipal-FAIMER Institute (M-FIILIPE) and T.M.A. Pai Chair in Inter-professional Education, was held here on Tuesday.

According to a press release issued here on Wednesday, students from the constituent institutions of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) participated in this inter-professional debate focussing on ‘Climate Change and Health’.

The students represented member-nations of SAARC countries, presented position papers on the theme subject, deliberated and evolved consensus on an inter-professional strategy to combat the impact of climate change on health issues.

The debate was inaugurated by H. Vinod Bhat, Vice-Chancellor of MAHE. In his address, Dr. Bhat highlighted the pivotal role and contribution of the World Health Organization (WHO) in combating global health issues.

He reiterated the need for designing and developing educational programmes that address health policy and advocacy training in the countries with the greatest need for health system strengthening. Poornima Baliga, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Faculty of Health Sciences), MAHE, was the guest of honour.

The debate aimed to provide participants with knowledge to engage in evidence-based health policy discourse and plan interventions accordingly. The programme also provided a learning platform for students from constituent units of MAHE.

Ciraj A.M., the course director of FAIMER institute, welcomed the gathering. The institute offers a two-year leadership programme on inter-professional education and collaborative practice. A jury of six members from diverse fields adjudged the proceedings.