22/07/2024 - 1:01 pm
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The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) and the Center for Research and Training in Community Development (RTCCD) in Hanoi, Vietnam, have been collaborating since 2013 to provide valuable global health experiences for medical and physiotherapy students. This partnership, centered around the Global Health Certificate program, enables students to engage in a 5-6 week internship […]
The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) and the Center for Research and Training in Community Development (RTCCD) in Hanoi, Vietnam, have been collaborating since 2013 to provide valuable global health experiences for medical and physiotherapy students. This partnership, centered around the Global Health Certificate program, enables students to engage in a 5-6 week internship that integrates clinical learning, research, and community engagement.
The Global Health Certificate program, coordinated by the College of Medicine and the School of Public Health at U of S, collaborates with RTCCD to offer students hands-on experiences in various healthcare contexts. This collaboration enhances students’ understanding of global health challenges and practices.
RTCCD, an independent research institute recognized by the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations (VUSTA), has significantly contributed to the development of educational materials and training programs for community health. Through their time at RTCCD, students engage in activities at local healthcare facilities, from hospitals to community health centers, gaining deeper insights into regional health challenges and needs.
Additionally, students receive guidance and participate in research projects alongside RTCCD scientists and experts. This involvement enhances their research skills and data analysis capabilities, benefiting their future research endeavors.
Participation in community health projects is a core component of the RTCCD internship program. Students work on practical health interventions that are crucial to the local context. These projects include developing educational materials for health workers and implementing public health campaigns. Engaging in these activities not only helps students understand community health needs and challenges but also familiarizes them with the health system and public health landscape in Vietnam.
Activities such as health education sessions at kindergartens, medical centers, and hospitals play a crucial role in raising awareness about health issues. Students will learn to work directly with community groups, listen to and address their needs, thus developing essential communication and collaboration skills in public health.
During their practical experience and work, students at the University of Saskatchewan developed their first project, an online course titled “Colic Crying” to help parents understand the characteristics of excessive crying in infants. The course provides guidance for parents on how to seek advice for themselves when dealing with colic, supporting them in better managing their emotions.
Involvement in research and data analysis across various projects at RTCCD supports students’ professional development and contributes significantly to the success of community health projects. Under the guidance of RTCCD experts, students learn to collect, process, and analyze data systematically and accurately.
Students participate in diverse research projects, from field surveys to secondary data analysis. This process helps them master both qualitative and quantitative research methods while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These skills are essential for their future careers in public health and related fields.
The data collected and analyzed are used to support the development of evidence-based health programs and policies. Students see the direct connection between research and practice as their findings are applied to improve health interventions.
In addition to practical skills, students also gain extensive academic knowledge through their research work at RTCCD. They are guided in writing research reports, scientific papers, and presenting their findings. These skills are valuable for further academic pursuits or professional careers.
Thus, through conducting research and data analysis, students not only develop professional skills but also contribute to the advancement of public health in Vietnam. This is a critical and integral part of the RTCCD internship program, providing valuable and meaningful learning experiences.
The internship program at RTCCD plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration between the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) and RTCCD.
Through this program, U of S students, while interning at RTCCD, work directly with the RTCCD team and gain a deeper understanding of the organization’s environment and needs. This creates opportunities for both parties to exchange and collaborate more closely, enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of the partnership.
Interns not only contribute to specific projects but also bring new and creative ideas. Their involvement helps RTCCD improve existing programs, develop new initiatives, and enhance the quality of community health activities.
This program serves as a vital bridge for exchanging knowledge and experience between the two organizations. U of S students have the opportunity to learn from RTCCD experts, while RTCCD staff can access new methods and perspectives from international students. This exchange enriches the knowledge and skills of both sides and fosters innovation and improvement in joint projects.
By providing resources, enhancing project quality, and facilitating knowledge exchange, the Global Health Certificate program contributes to the overall success of global health initiatives and improves the quality of healthcare in Vietnam through extensive collaboration between RTCCD and the University of Saskatchewan.
We hope to continue expanding this partnership, continuously innovating and developing internship programs and health initiatives. By maintaining close collaboration and adapting to new challenges and needs, we believe that both organizations will achieve significant accomplishments in improving public health and elevating healthcare quality, not only in Vietnam but globally. The integration of international experience with local knowledge will create sustainable and effective solutions, better addressing community health needs and advancing sustainable development in the healthcare sector.