CHANDIGARH, 02.07.24-The (IPHMDP) celebrated a vibrant cultural night extravaganza in Shimla, underscoring the importance of field-based learning and cross-cultural exchange. "By immersing in diverse environments and engaging directly with different cultures, we not only deepen our understanding of global health issues but also foster a spirit of empathy and collaboration that transcends borders," said Dr. Sonu Goel, Program Director and Professor of Department of Community medicine and School of Public Health, PGI Chandigarh. He underscored the importance of diverse learning mechanisms like field visits, gamification, storytelling, energizers, case-scenarios relevant to participating nations, which are more engaging for senior program managers than traditional learning pedagogy. Over the past eight years, more than 1,300 senior delegates from 87 countries have enhanced their skills through this flagship program of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.

The participants also visited Central Research Institute (CRI) Kasauli where Dr. Sanjay Kutty, Medical Officer and Dr Sanjay T Chavan, Assistant Director presented CRI's achievements in setting benchmarks for vaccine production, biomedical research, quality control mechanisms, and public health initiatives through exemplary best practices, while maintaining good manufacturing practices. The participants also visited various facilities within the institute, including various skill development centres.