LUANDA, 15 August 2024 – Collaboration between the health and education sectors is crucial for sustainable development and the well-being of any nation. Through education, it is possible to disseminate scientific knowledge, develop new research, and ensure that health practices are always evidence-based. This synergy is essential for creating effective policies and programmes that benefit society as a whole. In this context, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESCTI) of Angola held a productive courtesy meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration between WHO and MESCTI, driving scientific research with a focus on improving health outcomes in Angola through strategic partnerships with academic institutions and the implementation of new joint initiatives.

The WHO Acting Representative in Angola, Dr Zabulon Yoti, accompanied by WHO’s External Relations Officer in Angola, Mr Omotola Akindipe, took the opportunity to congratulate Dr Paula Regina Simões de Oliveira, recently appointed Minister of MESCTI, and reiterated WHO’s commitment to supporting Angola beyond the health sector by outlining WHO’s strategic priorities, which include "promoting health, ensuring universal access to healthcare, and strengthening responses to health emergencies."

The discussion focused on the importance of collaboration between WHO and Angolan universities, highlighting existing partnerships through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with institutions such as the Private University of Angola, Agostinho Neto University in Luanda, and Katyavala Bwila University in Benguela. Minister Paula de Oliveira expressed MESCTI's commitment to expanding these efforts, "especially in the area of research, which I consider essential for the progress of the research sector in Angola," she emphasised. One of the main highlights of the meeting was Angola’s recent inclusion in the global research platform, Research4Life, which provides access to peer-reviewed academic content. Ongoing research projects were also explored, including a study on vaccine coverage and hesitancy across eight provinces, aimed at addressing suboptimal vaccination rates.

Both parties agreed to explore new initiatives, including a health research dissemination event and the formalisation of their collaboration through a protocol. This meeting marks a significant step towards a stronger partnership that will enhance health education, research, and contribute to sustainable development in Angola.