Wollo University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) successfully hosted its 1st International Health Research Conference under the theme “Global Health Threats and Resilience through Collaborative Research and Innovative Solutions” at the Tertiary Care Campus.
This landmark event brought together leading experts and researchers, policy makers, Ministry of Health officials, members of the scientific community, traditional healers and international practitioners in health research, policy and innovations. The conference was disseminated via in-person and virtual participation from various corners of Ethiopia and beyond.
Dr. Metadel Adane, Acting Chief-Executive Director (CED) of CMHS, in his warm welcoming speech acknowledged the keynote speakers, guests and attendees with respect to their collective contributions to global health threats and resilience mechanisms. He also acknowledged the generous support of Ministry of Health and other partners which enabled us to host this significant event.
The opening remarks, delivered by His Excellency Dr. Awol Seid, President of Wollo University, emphasized the importance of addressing current pressing global health issues through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative approaches. Dr. Awol underscored the drive to develop our university into a center of excellence in health and detailed the role of research in shaping effective healthcare policies and improving community health outcomes.
Our distinguished keynote speakers were, Professor Delenasaw Yewhalaw and Professor Tefera Belachew from Jimma University, Mr. Assegid Samuel from the Ministry of Health, Dr. India Schneider-Crease from Arizonia State University – USA, and Dr. Julius Kirirmi Sindi from Africa Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) – Kenya. They all tremendously shared their expertise and invaluable insights through inspiring talks that set the tone for important discussions afterward. A total of 24 oral and poster abstracts were presented by researchers, sparking fruitful discussions among guests and participants.
Another highlight of the conference was the traditional medicine exhibition, featuring remedies by traditional healers. They demonstrated their practices and shared knowledge, highlighting the rich diversity of traditional medicinal approaches and the importance of integrating traditional healing practices into modern healthcare systems.
Closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Hawa Wolie, the Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer, which focused on the importance of local and international networking, encouraging participants to enhance connections and collaborative efforts in health research.
