Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU), in strategic collaboration with Imperial College London, one of the world’s top 10 universities, has unveiled an advanced epidemiology course within its MSc in Public Health program. Designed by experts from Imperial College London, this specialized program is now available to learners in the UAE, providing them with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to address critical societal and global health challenges. This partnership highlights HBMSU’s dedication to enhancing public health education and empowering future leaders with the expertise and innovative tools to improve health outcomes worldwide.
H.E. Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of HBMSU, said, “This collaboration between HBMSU and Imperial College London represents a pioneering initiative that aligns with the UAE's vision to enhance its global standing in the healthcare sector and elevate the standards of excellence in education and research. Through this academic partnership, we aim to introduce cutting-edge methodologies and curricula in health-related disciplines, supporting the UAE's healthcare sector. This will empower learners, professionals, practitioners, and leaders in the healthcare field with the knowledge and skills required to tackle global health challenges".
He added: “Epidemiology is, by its very nature, a dynamic science that requires navigating the complexities of human behaviour, societal structures, and unpredictable environmental factors. This makes the field of epidemiology highly impactful, as strategies to address these risks rely on critical skills like analytical thinking, data-driven innovation, and adaptability to improve health outcomes and address global challenges”.
Epidemiology, regarded as one of the top five specializations in public health, has made significant contributions to society. The field continues to be essential in offering data-driven solutions to complex issues such as the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, the challenges posed by an ageing population, persistent health disparities, and urgent global health issues. By partnering with Imperial College London, HBMSU provides learners with access to world-class education and research resources, empowering them to address these challenges and offer innovative solutions to enhance public health in the UAE and beyond.
Prof. Samer Hamidi, Dean of the School of Health and Environmental Studies at HBMSU, said: “This collaboration with Imperial College London represents a transformative step in advancing public health education in the UAE. By integrating expertise from one of the world’s leading institutions, we are not only elevating the academic experience for our learners but also addressing the critical need for innovative solutions to global health challenges. Epidemiology serves as the backbone of public health, enabling us to understand and mitigate the factors that influence health outcomes. This partnership equips our learners with the skills and knowledge to become pioneers in public health research, capable of driving impactful change on a regional and global scale”.
Prof. Salman Rawaf, Director of the WHO Collaborating Centre for Public Health Education and Training at Imperial College London, said, “This collaboration underscores the importance of international partnerships in tackling contemporary public health challenges. By combining HBMSU's innovative approach to education with our expertise in epidemiology and global health, we have created a learning environment that empowers learners to develop evidence-based solutions to complex health issues. This initiative enriches the academic experience and strengthens the public health workforce regionally and globally”.
Celine Tabche, Co-Director of the WHO Collaborating Centre in the School of Public Health Education and Training at Imperial College London, added: “The successful launch of this academic course is a testament to the power of collaborative innovation in public health education. We have provided learners with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate a rapidly changing health landscape. It was a privilege to meet such a passionate group of learners whose enthusiasm and commitment to advancing public health were truly inspiring. This collaboration reinforces our shared vision of advancing public health through academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and impactful educational experiences”.
