ASPHER

Uniting public health schools to shape a healthier future

ASPHER is the key independent European organisation dedicated to improving and protecting the public health by strengthening education and training of public health professionals for both practice and research

Find out more Join the Association

Communications from ASPHER

Never miss out - stay informed with ASPHER news, initiatives and opportunities from the Association and its working structures.

ASPHER Secretariat · 03.11.2026

Save the dates! ASPHER Events 2027 – ASPHER Congress & ASSETS Public Health Mentoring Summer School

ASPHER will be crowning its 60th Anniversary year with celebrations of the 100 years of the Andrija Štampar School of Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb. On this momentous occasion, don’t miss out! Join us for: 2nd European Congress on Education and Training in Public Health 16-19 June 2027, Zagreb (Croatia) Hosted by the Andrija Štampar School of Public Health zagreb2027@aspher.org The 2nd European Congress on Education and Training follows the success of the 1st Congress in Milan, Italy. The Congress builds on ASPHER’s long-standing mission: to strengthen the capacity and quality of public health education and to ensure that future generations of professionals are prepared to face evolving challenges. The initiative translates ASPHER's accumulated experience and thought leadership into a larger, more visible European framework. Call for Abstracts and Registration coming in early December! ASSETS Mentoring Summer School 12-17 July 2027, Zagreb (Croatia) Hosted by the Andrija Štampar School of Public Health assets@aspher.org The Andrija Stampar Summer Educational & Tutoring School (ASSETS) offers an exclusive educational mentoring programme tailored to initiate fruitful learning experiences. ASSETS seeks to strengthen public health professionals in their field of expertise and professional identity through the concept of career mentoring from distinguished and recognized experts in the field of public health. Email to register your interest! Watch this site for more event details coming soon!

Read the story
Pinned post

Welcome to the new ASPHER Community website!

ASPHER is thrilled to welcome you to our new website! The goal of our newly designed site is to create a member driven ASPHER online community where individual users affiliated with ASPHER member institutions (schools leadership, faculty, students, alumni...) will be able to interact with each other, network and share their work, engage in Association's activities, and so much more – expanding together to unlock the ASPHER community’s full potential! We would like aspher.org to be a landing page each morning for members of the ASPHER community to share and learn about news relevant to their work. Our aim is to make the site a true focal point of their web presence within a trusted space of likeminded colleagues connected through ASPHER work and values. The direction of the website development is to create an online environment fully interoperable with members' digital identies across other professional, organisational and social media realms. Visitors are always welcome to the site, but in order to take full advantage of being part of the ASPHER community, please sign up for your individual account here. In order to sign up for an account you must be affiliated with an ASPHER member institution and your account must be verified. If you don’t find your institution on the current member list and you are affiliated with an institution involved in public health education and training, then you may want to encourage your institution to become a member of the Association. Contact us at community@aspher.org to learn more about how your institution can join ASPHER. The website design is meant to be as intuitive as possible for your user experience, but in order to discover all the functionalities a manual is needed. The office is hard at work developing a user manual to be available soon. Moving archived content from the previous ASPHER website is also a work in process. We will be steadily updating the current page as well as digitizing historically important paper documents in time for 60th anniversary celebrations in 2026. This is only the beginning! We are planning to enrich the web community further over the coming months, adding hub functionalities for additional interaction and sharing to include: Public Health Training Hub bringing together available education and training offers, pool of experts and trainers, and competency-based curriculum creation toolkit. Public Health Practical Knowledge & Engagement Hub to support projects implementation including bringing together partners for bids and joint publication efforts, community outreach and a good practice repository. Public Health Career Development & Advancement Hub including system capacity and individual career planning toolkit, guidance for funding and employment opportunities. We hope you will be as excited as we are to build closer community at aspher.org! If you have questions, ideas or feedback, please contact us through the feedback form on the homepage.

ASPHER Secretariat

Robert Otok · 30.09.2025

XiA launches its Community of Practice to support Europe’s digital health interoperability skills

The XiA - Xpanding Innovative Alliance project is launching its Community of Practice, a new European collaborative space designed to bring together professionals, educators, researchers, public authorities, healthcare organisations, industry representatives and standards communities around one shared objective: strengthening the skills needed to implement interoperable digital health across Europe. More information is available in the attached document. The XiA Community of Practice is designed as the collaborative engine of the project. It will connect XiA with the people and organisations expected to use, review, adapt, promote and benefit from its outputs. Through the Community of Practice, members will be invited to contribute to activities such as stakeholder consultations, feedback sessions, validation of educational components, workshops, webinars, educathons and dissemination actions. The goal is to ensure that XiA outputs remain aligned with real professional needs, national contexts and EHDS implementation priorities. ASPHER is an associated partner in the project and is contributing to making the XiA projects more accessible and relevant to public health professionals. For more information about our involvement, do not hesitate to reach out to me. Join the XiA Community of Practice: https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/XiA-Join-The-Community-of-Practice Visit the XiA website: https://xia-project.iscte-iul.pt/ https://xia.erasmusplus.european-project.com/ Follow XiA on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xia-eu-project/

Digital Public Health

Rok Hrzic · 05.10.2026

“Public Health Memory Capsules”: Educational materials for the ASPHER community

Containing the Marburg Virus Disease outbreak in Ethiopia, in 2025 – a case study based on a success story This case study on containing the Marburg Virus Disease outbreak in Ethiopia in 2025 is the first part of the ASPHER series “Public Health Memory Capsules”: Educational materials for the ASPHER community. It is a series of educational materials based on remarkable or highly significant events in public health history, including very recent ones, that offer important lessons for contemporary public health and health care professionals. This case study is based on the work of the ASPHER Public Health Emergencies Task Force and may be used freely for educational purposes. The authors greatly appreciate comments and feedback, as well as any remarks on improvements or development. A feedback form is available here. Please return feedback or send comments to: Tomasz Bochenek, e-mail: t.bochenek@uj.edu.pl.

Public Health Emergencies

Lore Leighton · 28.08.2026

ASPHER course: Ethics, Law and Governance for Climate and Environmental Action in Public Health

Extreme weather conditions and fire disasters across Europe are reminding us of the unprecedent threat Climate Change poses to our health and environment. Public Health must urgently prepare and build capacity to confront the challenge head-on: as scientists, as professionals, and as citizens. Please consider joining us for: ASPHER’S course: Ethics, Law and Governance for Climate and Environmental Action in Public Health Registration is open for this free online European course organised by ASPHER and the European Climate and Health Observatory. Through 10 live virtual sessions, the course will explore climate justice and human rights, European and international law, mitigation and adaptation, climate-resilient health systems, governance, communication and public health advocacy. Dates: 23 September–2 December 2026 Time: Wednesdays, 16:30–18:00 CET Format: Live virtual course Cost: Free Accreditation: APHEA-accredited CTEE course with CPD points and the opportunity to earn a certificate Learn more and register here. Please share this opportunity widely with your students, faculty members and networks.

ASPHER Secretariat

Lore Leighton · 06.08.2026

View all news

Membership by the Numbers

Over 60 years, ASPHER has built a community of schools of public health and the people behind them to make shared impact on public health across the European Region and beyond.

Communications from Members

Explore and share community member institutional news and developments with the world and peer-to-peer.

Poster Abstracts – 40th anniversary of the Ottawa Charter

Share Your Work and Help Shape the Future of Health Promotion  Are you a student, trainee, early-career professional, or early-career researcher? We invite you to submit a poster abstract for the conference commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion, to be held in Montréal on November 9–10, 2026. Under the theme “Promoting One Health for Sustainable Well-Being,” the conference will bring together researchers, practitioners, students, policymakers, and community leaders from Québec, Canada, and around the world to reflect on the future of health promotion in the face of contemporary challenges. Selected posters will be showcased in a digital poster exhibition during the conference. In addition, five submissions will be selected for presentation in a plenary session dedicated to emerging talents, providing an exceptional opportunity to share your work with all conference participants. Conference registration fees will be waived for participants whose submissions are accepted. Submission deadline: October 12, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (ET) View the full call for abstracts and submit your proposal here.

University of Montreal - ESPUM

Lore Leighton · 17.09.2026

Students of the XX Europubhealth+ Master’s organise symposium on health and migration at EASP

The symposium “Ideas and Realities on Health and Migration: a perspective from Spain” was held at the Andalusian School of Public Health (EASP) in Granada on 27 April 2026. The event was organised by students of the XX Master of Excellence in Public Health – Europubhealth+, with the support of EASP. The symposium addressed key issues at the intersection of migration, public health and access to health services in Spain. The programme included contributions on health and migration in Andalusia based on evidence from the Spanish National Health Survey, the role of immigration in access to and use of the Spanish health system, and the methodological challenges involved in producing evidence on migrant health. The event also included a discussion panel, providing space for exchange between speakers, students and participants. Through this initiative, Europubhealth+ students contributed to a timely public health debate on equity, evidence generation and the need to better understand the health needs and experiences of migrant populations. The symposium also reflected the international, interdisciplinary and practice-oriented approach of the Europubhealth+ programme. The recordings of the symposium are available on the EASP event webpage: “Ideas and Realities on Health and Migration”.

Andalusian School of Public Health

Victor de Haro · 05.05.2026

Master the Art of Clinical Research Agreements – Join Our Expert Webinar

Are you navigating the complex world of clinical research contracts? Ready to level up your negotiation skills? Join us for an exclusive webinar: "How to Review and Negotiate Clinical Research Agreements Like a Pro" 📅 When: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 ⏰ Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (UAE Time) 📍 Where: Online via Zoom 🔗 Webinar Link: https://uaeu-ac-ae.zoom.us/j/84057734267 💰 Cost: FREE 🏆 CME Credits: 1 CME from UAEU🌟 Featured Speaker: Miss Wendy Sim – Clinical Research Consultant with over 15 years of proven expertise in global study start-up, regulatory submissions, and clinical research contracts. Learn insider strategies and best practices from someone who's been in the trenches! Moderated by: Mr. Ahmad Ziad Al Meslamani – Senior Lab Supervisor at Al Ain University & PhD Candidate at IPH Why Attend? ✅ Gain practical insights into contract review processes ✅ Learn expert negotiation tactics for clinical research agreements ✅ Understand regulatory and compliance considerations ✅ Earn 1 CME credit from UAEU ✅ Network with public health and research professionalsWhether you're a researcher, lab supervisor, public health professional, or involved in clinical trials, this session will equip you with the knowledge to navigate research agreements with confidence.

United Arab Emirates University

Lore Leighton · 19.03.2026

Summer School: Evidence to Trust – PH Communication and the Role of Epidemiology in Global Health

Evidence to Trust – Public Health Communication and the Role of Epidemiology in Global Health 20 to 24 July 2026 at the campus of Paracelsus Medical Private University in Salzburg, Austria. The summer school brings together early-career public health students and researchers, mid-career professionals in public health institutions, as well as medical and pharmacy students with a strong interest in global health. By integrating epidemiological expertise with strategic communication and stakeholder engagement, the program equips participants to critically assess evidence, translate knowledge into action, and design solutions that foster trust and sustainable public health impact. Through methodological training, strategic communication, and real-world case discussions, the summer school provides a platform for networking, capacity building, and professional development. It supports participants in strengthening their leadership, critical thinking, and policy-shaping competencies within a global health context. The Summer School will therefore also provide an excellent opportunity to establish professional networks and initiate future collaborations. Please note that the Summer School will be held in English. Download the course pamphlet here. Further details, including the preliminary program, are available in the attached document. Updates will be communicated via our website. Register here. For further inquiries, please contact: ph.summerschool@pmu.ac.at

Paracelsus Medical University - Private Foundation

Lore Leighton · 09.03.2026

View all news

Public Health Training Hub

Take your profile to the next level with support for members, learning and professional development.

Virtual Learning Environment

Host online education and training events with ASPHER's dynamic and interconnected digital platform.

Explore courses

Programme Directory

Ensure that future students and trainees find you! Add your institution's education and training offerings to the searchable ASPHER directory.

Explore programmes

Resource Library

Find and share education and teaching materials, case studies, simulations and more to enrich your classroom learning environment.

Browse resources

Blogs by Affiliated Individuals

Be inspired by ideas, opinions, perspectives and stories shared by the people behind ASPHER Member Institutions. Make yourself heard and contribute your own experience!

EPH 2025: ASPHER-EUPHA-WHO Unique Forum Theatre Workshop

Join our ASPHER-EUPHA-WHO unique interactive workshop at EPH 2025 Helsinki, Finland titled: Protecting public health through global cooperation and advocacy defending WHO: forum theatre Time: Thursday, 13 November, 16:45 - 17:45 Workshop abstract You have just accepted an appointment as Head of National Public Health Association in your country. As your staff briefs you on your new realm, you realise that your country’s government is considering to follow the US and to withdraw its membership in the WHO. How would you consider to act? To advocate and protect public health? Description: In light of growing populist and nationalist movements questioning the legitimacy of international health institutions, this workshop offers an immersive experience that blends theatre and strategic thinking. Participants will explore the political, societal, and ethical tensions surrounding national withdrawal from WHO through forum theatre and roleplay, in a simulated parliamentary setting. A. Setting the Stage The session opens with an introduction to WHO, adapted from our “Strengthening Public Health Advocacy” webinar (April 2025). It highlights WHO’s critical roles—from setti ng global standards and supporting health systems to coordinating pandemic responses and driving equity. We will screen provocative video clips such as the Israeli Parliament hearing where a public health expert is shouted down, to illustrate how emotionally charged and politicised the health space has become. B. Forum Theatre Simulation 1. Role Assignment As participants enter, they receive a colour-coded role card representing one of three groups: o Pro-WHO / Pro-Public Health (Green): you are a member of parliament committed to international cooperation o Undecided / Politically Ambivalent (Yellow): you are a parliamentarian who is open but uncertain. You can be politically ambivalent, pragmatic, or distracted. o Anti-WHO / Pro-Sovereignty (Red): you are a member of parliament who believes in national sovereignty. You receive money from harmful industry to defend their commercial interest through lobbies or personal interest. Each card outlines their position, a few arguments, and questions to raise. Participants read it silently and prepare their stance. 2. Opening Performance Two former politicians, Charlotte Marchandise and Ricardo Mexia, perform a short scene as parliamentarians debating WHO membership—one defending continued membership, the other calling for withdrawal. The tone is lively and confrontational. 3. First Parliamentary Vote Participants vote on whether to stay or leave WHO based on their assigned role. 4. Interactive Debate Participants are invited to take the floor, improvise, replace an actor, or defend their stance. Audience reaction is encouraged to recreate the mood of real parliamentary debate. 5. Second Vote After interventions, a second vote takes place. Has the room shifted? C. Conclusion with panelists We close with a panel debrief formed of the speaker, parliamentarians, and one of the authors of the EUPHA-ASPHER WHO advocacy toolkit, and reflections on how to tak e these advocacy lessons into national and local settings. We call on participants to act, disseminate, and stand up for multilateralism in health.

Avi Magid

21.10.2025

Kidical Mass – public health in action on the streets of Brussels

Your ASPHER Secretariat is not only working for public health as our regular workday, but we also make efforts to improve health in our local community outside of the office! Here in Brussels, my family helps organise regular bike rides with Kidical Mass. Kidical Mass is an initiative aimed at promoting an inclusive and accessible cycling culture for young people and their families, with key missions focused on getting them on the bike, supervised learning to cycle in the city, social cohesion at the municipal level, and strengthening cycling culture and sustainable development. In collaboration with citizens, associations, and local authorities, Kidical Mass supports (future) cyclists at every stage of their journey: learning to ride from a young age, traveling safely and confidently, adopting cycling in everyday life, and inspiring those around them to do the same. Kidical Mass rides are an opportunity for children to practise riding on public roads and cycling paths, taking advantage of visibility and safety in numbers. They create awareness of children's mobility rights and promote the idea that kids should be able to go by bike to school or to their leisure activities, calling for safer cycling infrastructure. The Brussels Kidical Mass started in 2020 and organises festive cycling events for children to encourage more children (and parents) to get around by bike. Accompanied by music along the way, we cycle to the children's rhythm and respect the traffic rules. Our approach is inclusive and supportive with over 5500 participants in Brussels Kidicals in 2024. We find tailor-made solutions for children in need or with disabilities and we help children/parents without a bike find their own for a small budget or even for free. By being visible on the streets of Brussels, the Kidical Mass promotes a more child-friendly city in a fun way while reiterating our demands: respect for the 30 km/h zone, secure school areas, the creation of family-friendly bike parking (longtails, cargo bikes), and more separate bike lanes. Kidical Mass rides take place in cities around the world so look out for your local event or consider setting up your own Kidical if your city is not yet involved. Kidical Mass grew out of the Critical Mass movement which is a form of direct action in which people travel as a group on bicycles at a set location and time to call for proper and thoughtful design in the safety of all road users, including those who would prefer to walk and cycle, instead of prioritising motor traffic above all else. Do you have a fun or interesting activity contributing to public health – either as part of your work or leisure? Why don’t you tell us about it with your own blog here at ASPHER! Register as a user and start posting! Lore Leighton ASPHER Secretariat

Lore Leighton

20.10.2025

View all news