CHANDIGARH,21.09.22-“We can accomplish more as a team than we can on our own. Inter-institutional learning exchange is essential for developing sustainable and healthy nations” remarked Dr. Vivek Lal, Director, PGIMER, Chandigarh on day 3 of 5-Day Public Health Policy and Management Program for Policy Makers of 13 countries being organized by Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, PGIMER, Chandigarh. While hosting high tea for senior delegates of 13 countries namely Algeria, Iraq, Maldives, Mauritius, Morocco, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Togo, Bangladesh and Tajikistan, he reaffirmed that the program would help to promote effective management and leadership techniques.

Dr Sonu Goel, Program Director and Professor Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health said that the participants are learning skills of developing and implementation of effective public health policy through the lens of management and leadership.

The program has galvanized South- South development cooperation with 161 ITEC countries in Asia, Africa, East Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean and Pacific and Small Island countries under the ancient Indian philosophy ‘Vasudeva Kutumbakam’ i.e. world is one family said Dr.Sonu Goel. Dr Lal also released two books: Case studies on Tobacco Control in India and Tobacco Industry Interference report commissioned by World Health Organisation, developed by Dr Goel in collaboration with diverse national stakeholders of country in presence of Mr Kumar Gaurav, Deputy Director Administration; Dr Sehgal, Dean Academics; Mr. Kumar Abhay, Financial Advisor; Dr. AK Aggarwal, Head of the department.

During the 5 day program, the delegates shall be showcased good practices of the institute and smart city concept of Chandigarh which they shall replicate in their respective countries. The delegates enjoyed a visit to ROTTO (Regional Organ & Tissue Transplant Organisation), Telemedicine center and tele-evidence at PGIMER Chandigarh. After the program, they will make an Action Plan for their Country/Institution based upon the learning of the program.