Online open course on global public health

Course introduces participants to science, practice & policy environment of global public health, and highlights its centrality in framework of sustainable development

Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) and Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), which is a global initiative of the United Nations, have joined hands to launch a free massive online open course (MOOC) on global public health from March 2.

The MOOC is led by professor K Srinath Reddy of the PHFI and features  international and national experts from the field of public health. The course introduces participants to science, practice, and policy environment of global public health, and highlights its centrality in the broader framework of sustainable development.

It will also cover a broad range of topics, starting with an introduction to the basics of public health and the importance of social determinants. It also looks into the importance of health systems in promoting the health of population, and the different methods being employed to achieve universality in access to affordable health services.

“It has been specially designed to meet the requirements and enhance knowledge of professionals and students in the global context, with a focus on the perspective of low and middle-income countries. We would like these courses to contribute to the comprehensive understanding of the interdisciplinary field of public health and to encourage a global dialogue on promoting good health for all,” said Reddy.

The course addresses new and emerging issues, including environmental change, technologies, global governance and emphasising their links to healthcare.

The ten-week course is structured around a series of pre-recorded lectures, readings and an interactive discussion forum. These can be completed at a time depending on the student convenience.

Students who successfully complete the course requirements will receive a digital certificate of completion signed by Professor Reddy. However, students who participate actively in the forum discussions will receive certificates of completion with distinction.