Global Forum 2015 to set global agenda on driving research and innovation in developing nations

Manila, Philippines- With over 4,000 registered participants representing more than 70 countries and territories - the Global Forum on Research and Innovation on Health 2015 is expected to provide guidance for nations and organisation in developing their research capabilities and foster greater innovation. Held this year in Manila, Philippines – the event is a key global action of the Council on Health Research for Development (COHRED) and is hosted by the Philippine Department of Science & Technology (DOST), Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Council on Health Research for Development (PCHRD). This will be the largest meeting of the Global Forum to date.

“The attendance is a testament to the importance of the issue for developing nations” says Prof. Carel Ijsselmuiden, Executive Director of COHRED. “With the coming launch of SDGs in September – we hope to add our voice to the conversation on the ways research and innovation on health supports the world’s development agenda.”

“This is truly a proud moment for the Philippines as we host the Global Forum” says Dr. Jaime Montoya, Executive Director of PCHRD.  “The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology, together with the Department of Health are hosting, what is destined to be, the biggest meeting to date of the Global Forum.  It shows that the health research and innovation sector of the Philippines is truly alive and well. We are looking forward to showcasing our achievements, to learn from the leading global experts in the meeting and to network with our colleagues from around the world”.

Over 200 research and innovation experts in health will lead the four-day conference program with more than 60 sessions on diverse topics ranging from Social Accountability, Increasing Investments and Country-driven Capacity Building, up to Nutrition Safety and Security, Health in Mega Cities and Disaster Risk Reduction.

The highlight of the Forum is the opening ceremony with the delivery of messages from Hon. Mario Montejo, Philippine Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary, Hon. Janette Loreto-Garin, Philippine Department of Health (DOH) Secretary, Hon. Mmboneni Muofhe, South Africa Department of Science and Technology Deputy Director-General, Prof. Carel IJsselmuiden, Council on Health Research for Development (COHRED) Executive Director and His Excellency Benigno Aquino, Republic of the Philippines President.

Delivering his welcome message – Secretary Mario Montejo reiterates the need to shape the global health agenda and building partnerships towards improvement of health and development. “This forum is a great opportunity to share best practices and forge strong partnerships on people-centered initiatives…Together, we can find appropriate solutions sourced from all corners of the world,” Sec. Montejo says.

The keynote address of His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino, read by Sec. Montejo, highlights the spirit of innovation saying that “we must never be satisfied with the status quo, and instead, look at it [innovation] with a critical eye, towards making constant improvements. It is precisely in forums like this one that new ideas and partnerships can be generated-those that may lead to the next medical breakthrough.”

Participants can look forward to 3 days of intense discussions on various topics shaping the global agenda for research and innovation for health. Other exciting activities under the Forum include New Leaders for Health Pre-Forum, IT4Health: Innovations for Global Health, Global Forum Film Festival 2015, Global Health Debates, and the Photo Exhibit.

“We thank all who contributed to the success of the Global Forum 2015, including the Government of Philippines, the City of Manila and all our participants, exhibitors and partners”, continued Prof. Carel IJsselmuiden. “We wish you all a productive conference ahead.”

24 August 2015

FOR COHRED

Barbara Ewals (Director for Partnerships)

Mobile: +63 927 1287723

E-mail: ewals@cohred.org

FOR PCHRD

Ladylove May B. Baurile (Science Research Specialist I)

Mobile: +63 906 3846684

E-mail: lmbaurile@gmail.com