Empowering action through experiential learning: SheffWHO 2024
Our students share their first-hand experiences of SheffWHO 2024 - a health-themed simulation of the World Health Assembly.
SheffWHO Conference 2024
Aston University MPH students participated in the sixth annual Sheffield World Health Organization Simulation (SheffWHO) conference, exploring the theme of "Navigating turbulent times: health system resilience in armed conflict". The event provided a platform for students to engage in discussions, debates, and networking opportunities alongside peers and professionals from around the world.
The conference, held from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 April, challenged participants to explore strategies for strengthening health systems in conflict-affected areas. Through a simulation format, students assumed the roles of various stakeholders involved in health governance, service provision and humanitarian response, gaining insights into the complexities of global health diplomacy.
Throughout the event, students immersed themselves in discussions revolving around three sub-themes: international response and health governance, essential health services continuity, and the role of the humanitarian health workforce. These discussions fostered critical thinking and prompted students to consider innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
Delegates were also encouraged to wear cultural attire and carry a flag representing the country they were allocated.
Dr Jomon Varughese, one of Aston University's MPH students who also received the 'Outstanding Delegate Award', reflected on the team's experience:
It was an incredibly enjoyable, informative, and inspirational experience for the five of us who participated. We had the opportunity to converse with MPH students from other universities.
The global health approach to navigating health systems in armed conflict regions was thought-provoking, and the professionalism of Aston [University] students was impressive from the first day.
Our cohort presented several resolutions, and we were pleased to see that the delegate of Ethiopia (Beauty) and the delegate of South Africa (Lekan)’s team received unanimous voting. Their resolution paper was well-made and was the only resolution that received a seal of approval from three organisations. The delegate of Japan (Raj) and India (Vidya) also did an exceptional job with their points of order and questions. India presented an interesting resolution, and Japan offered technical aid to the majority of countries.
I, as the delegate of UAE, was honored to receive the Outstanding Delegate Award."
Jomon also took the opportunity to thank Aston University staff for the support they received:
We would like to express our gratitude for your support and guidance, as well as for providing us with a pleasant stay, food coupons, and train tickets."
Beauty Igein, who represented Ethiopia during the simulation, shared her perspective:
I want to emphasise the enriching educational journey this represents. It's imperative to champion the participation of public health professionals in shaping the future of health governance.
I extend a warm invitation to Aston University to partner with this event, fostering a collaborative environment that empowers both established experts and eager students to contribute to meaningful change in public health practices."
Aston University Public Health student Dr Vidhyashree Srinivasan, representing her home country of India, shared her experiences:
I was proud to represent my beloved India on this esteemed international platform. I embraced the opportunity to contribute to discussions and advocate for initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare resilience in conflict zones. It's a privilege to be a voice for my country and collaborate with delegates from around the world.
Throughout the simulation, I had the honor of forging meaningful alliances with representatives from Bangladesh, Myanmar, Maldives, Armenia, Ecuador, and Pakistan. Together, we navigated the complexities of healthcare delivery in conflict settings, leveraging our diverse perspectives to formulate comprehensive strategies and resolutions.
We worked as a team to put forward The SheffWHO 2024 Resolution 1.1, which emphasised the need for uninterrupted health services during conflicts. It called for local capacity-building, mental health support, and protection of healthcare infrastructure and personnel. It encouraged dialogue between Pakistan and India for a peace treaty to ensure healthcare continuity. We collaborated with non-state actors' representatives like the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), who agreed to endorse our resolution and provide funds. With the majority of delegates and non-state actors voting for our resolution, it was successfully passed."
Vidhyashree also shared her appreciation for the opportunity:
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Aston University and our programme director, Dr Frances Thirlway, for providing us with the invaluable opportunity to attend the SheffWHO 2024 conference. This sponsorship enabled me and my fellow students of the public health cohort to participate in crucial discussions and contribute to meaningful resolutions aimed at addressing global health challenges. Thank you for your unwavering support and investment in our academic and professional development.
Participating in SheffWHO 2024 was not only intellectually stimulating but also deeply rewarding, as it reinforced the importance of global solidarity and cooperation in addressing the most pressing health challenges facing our world today. I look forward to continuing the dialogue and translating our discussions into tangible action for a healthier, more resilient future."
