SHARJAH, :The University of Sharjah (UoS), through its Center of Excellence for Public Health (CEPH) under the Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences (RIMHS), has organised the 1st International Public Health Conference (IPHC) under the theme “Driving Innovation, Engagement, and Collaboration for a Healthier UAE”.The two-day conference brought together public health professionals, researchers, policymakers, healthcare providers and technology experts from across the UAE and beyond to address pressing public health challenges and explore solutions that support the UAE’s vision of becoming a regional leader in public health innovation.In his opening remarks, Prof. Esameldin Agamy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, thanked H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University, for his continued support. He said the conference reflects UoS’s commitment to advancing public health as a cornerstone of national well-being and sustainable development.
The Chancellor noted that the University offers over 40 undergraduate and graduate programmes across medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and allied health sciences, supported by several affiliated research centres. He added that the conference explores practical, data-driven strategies to tackle real-world issues, such as managing chronic diseases, promoting mental health and utilising artificial intelligence for public benefit.
Prof. Qutayba Hamid, Vice-Chancellor for Medical and Health Sciences Colleges and Dean of the College of Medicine, said the conference supports efforts to collect accurate data on chronic and acute diseases through local and international partnerships.
Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice-Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, described the conference as a key platform for building partnerships and promoting collaborative applied research to meet societal needs. He highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in overcoming healthcare challenges and enhancing medical services.
Prof. Basema Saddik, Director of CEPH, said the conference focuses on addressing public health priorities across three core pillars: innovation, engagement and collaboration. She said participants examined the use of digital health, data-driven strategies and evidence-based practices in tackling health challenges in the UAE and the wider region.
The event featured workshops and panel discussions on topics such as strengthening UAE public health systems, AI applications in medicine, and community-based health promotion. Other sessions focused on non-communicable disease prevention and environmental health risks linked to climate change.A scientific poster exhibition showcased innovative research, and a ceremony was held to honour keynote speakers and sponsors for their contributions to the conference’s success.
