Masters’ Students’ Educational Trip to WHO Headquarters, Geneva
Bringing Theory to Life: MPH Students’ Educational Trip to WHO Headquarters, Geneva
In public health, the best way to truly understand how concepts come to life is to experience them firsthand. While textbooks and lectures provide the foundation, real-world application is where the magic happens.
Since 2008, the WHO Collaborating Centre for Public Health Education and Training at Imperial College London has been facilitating a transformative educational trip to the World Health Organization (WHO) Headquarters in Geneva for Master of Public Health (MPH) students. This experience allows students to step out of the classroom and into the heart of global health, where theory meets practice in the most meaningful way.
The trip, which takes place every year, has become an essential part of the MPH program. It provides students with direct exposure to WHO’s work, allowing them to engage with global health leaders and experts, participate in enriching sessions, and visit key international organisations like the International Labour Organization (ILO), Red Cross, United Nations, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, etc. This immersive experience helps students better understand how global health policies are shaped and implemented, while offering them a broader perspective on international health systems and challenges.
Through engaging directly with global health experts, exploring the operational side of international health policy, and visiting key institutions students have the unique opportunity to see how the concepts they’ve studied come to life. This trip offers more than just presentations; it’s a chance to understand the complexities of implementing solutions to health challenges worldwide. This invaluable experience bridges the gap between what students learn in their MPH program and how those lessons translate into real-life global health strategies and solutions.
Learning Outcomes of the trip:
Through this trip, students gain the following key insights:
- Understanding the WHO’s Role in Global Health: Students are able to explore WHO’s mandate, how it works with member states, and the challenges it faces in addressing global health issues.
- Key International Health Initiatives: Students learn about critical global health efforts like the Pandemic Accord, vaccine equity, and strategies for achieving Universal Health Coverage.
- Collaboration Between Global Health Stakeholders: The trip underscores the importance of coordination between organizations such as WHO, ILO, and various governments in tackling global health challenges.
- Real-World Applications: Students apply their MPH academic knowledge to real-life global health issues discussed during sessions, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
The 2024 trip was another remarkable chapter in this tradition, with 25 MPH students gaining insights that will shape their academic and professional futures. To have a closer look at what they experienced, please see full report on last year’s trip see below:
- What are the travel dates?
The trip will take place from June 25th to June 27th. - Can I stay longer or arrive earlier?
Yes, absolutely. In fact, arriving a day earlier is encouraged, as the program begins promptly at 8:45 AM on the first day. - Where are we staying?
Accommodation arrangements are up to each participant. We are not coordinating hotel bookings, so please arrange your stay accordingly. Please keep in mind that if you arrive on Wednesday morning you will not be able to check into your accommodation until after 5pm so you will have your luggage with you the whole day. Likewise, if you plan on leaving on Friday you will need to organise somewhere to store your luggage after you check out and then go back to retrieve it before going to the airport. - How does local transportation work?
Most hotels in Geneva provide guests with a free transport pass for the duration of their stay, allowing unlimited access to buses, trams, and trains within the city. If you’re staying in an Airbnb or private accommodation, please check directly with your host about transport options or passes. You can download the app Free Geneva Transport Card | Geneva Tourism - What is covered and what is not?
Any additional expenses, including meals and accommodation, are your responsibility. - Is lunch provided?
Meals are not included, but lunch will be at the WHO Headquarters, where food options are heavily subsidised. In addition, group dinners are being planned, and details will be shared closer to the dates. - What is the local currency, and how should I handle money?
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though it’s useful to carry some cash. Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and exchange offices. - Will I need a power adapter?
Yes. Switzerland uses plug types C and J, with a 230V voltage and 50Hz frequency. Please bring an appropriate adapter for your devices. - Will there be free time?
Yes, especially in the evenings. However, most days will be fully scheduled, so personal time will be limited during the day. - Is there a group communication channel?
Yes, we’ve created a WhatsApp group for updates and coordination during the trip. - What is the emergency contact procedure?
Please have your personal emergency contacts accessible. If any issues arise during the trip, you can reach out to Emmanuel or Rachel (WhatsApp or WeChat 07477678143) - Who do I contact with other questions?
Before reaching out, please review this FAQ. For urgent or unresolved matters, contact Emmanuel, Helene, Rachel or Ela directly.