University of Global Health Equity

University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) is a health sciences university located in Rwanda, dedicated to training the next generation of global health professionals to deliver equitable, quality health services for all. It was established with the vision of transforming health education and through innovative teaching, research, and service delivery, aims to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and values to improve health care worldwide.

History

The University of Global Health Equity was founded by Partners In Health (PIH), an international health organization known for its work in delivering high-quality health care in resource-limited settings. The initiative was led by PIH co-founder Paul Farmer, a renowned physician and anthropologist, who was a strong advocate for health equity and social justice. The university was officially inaugurated in 2015, with the mission to radically change the way health care is delivered around the globe by focusing on the social determinants of health.

Campus

The UGHE campus is situated in the rural area of Butaro, in the Burera District of Rwanda. This location is strategic, as it embeds the institution within a community that is representative of the challenges and opportunities in global health. The campus is designed to be environmentally sustainable and to foster a sense of community among students, faculty, and staff.

Programs

UGHE offers a range of programs aimed at developing leaders in global health. These include:

• Master of Science in Global Health Delivery (MGHD): A program designed to equip students with the skills needed to design, manage, and evaluate health care programs.
• Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS): A program that integrates global health equity into medical education, preparing students to become physicians with a deep understanding of the social determinants of health.
• Executive Education Programs: Short courses aimed at professionals seeking to enhance their skills in specific areas of global health.

Research

Research at UGHE focuses on addressing the world's most pressing health issues through a lens of equity. The university encourages interdisciplinary research collaborations to generate innovative solutions to global health challenges. Areas of research include infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, and health systems strengthening.

Impact

UGHE's impact is seen in its contributions to health care delivery, policy, and research. Graduates of UGHE are equipped to lead change in their communities and beyond, applying principles of equity and social justice to improve health outcomes. The university's emphasis on community-based education and research ensures that its work is grounded in the realities of those most in need of health services.

Partnerships

The university collaborates with a range of partners, including governments, non-governmental organizations, and academic institutions, to advance its mission. These partnerships facilitate the exchange of knowledge, provide students with practical experiences, and enhance the university's capacity to address global health challenges.

Conclusion

The University of Global Health Equity stands as a beacon of hope in the quest for a more equitable world. Through its innovative approach to health education, research, and service delivery, UGHE is making significant strides towards reducing health disparities and improving the quality of life for people around the globe.