The recent EV4GH Annual Board Meeting, hosted at the Nagasaki University from 3 to 8 March 2024, stands out as a significant milestone shaping the trajectory of the network’s future endeavours. The Governing Board and the EV4GH Secretariat came to Nagasaki, Japan for the occasion. Virtual participation was facilitated for EV4GH secretariat members from around the world and board members who could not be physically present in Japan. This meeting served as a catalyst for a series of strategic discussions, notably focusing on the meticulous planning of the highly anticipated EV4GH 2024 venture.
During the meeting, crucial decisions were reached regarding venue selection and accommodation arrangements, laying a solid foundation for an impactful and successful event. The collaborative spirit between the Governing Board and the Secretariat underscored their shared vision of expanding the network’s reach, a goal that received resounding support from all involved parties. To run the EV4GH 2024 venture smoothly and effectively, governing board members also discussed the roles and responsibilities of different taskforces. Through transparent communication and shared objectives, both entities reaffirmed their unwavering dedication to realizing the overarching mission of EV4GH, fostering unity and cooperation as they chart a path forward.
A defining moment of the meeting was the site visit to the chosen location for the 8th Global Symposium on Health Systems Research (HSR2024) in Nagasaki, Japan where the event is slated to take place from 18 to 22 November 2024. With the theme “Building Just and Sustainable Health Systems Centring People and Protecting the Planet,” HSR2024 promises to be a pivotal event within the field. The successful bid submitted by Nagasaki University in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) showcases Japan’s steadfast commitment to advancing global health initiatives.
Looking ahead, EV4GH is poised to play a significant role in the symposium, offering a comprehensive series of training sessions both online and offline in the lead-up to the main event, including capacity building for young researchers. This collaboration emphasizes the network’s dedication to fostering knowledge-sharing and capacity-building in global health research and practice. The secretariat received a total of 830 applications from both Track 1 and 2, which increased the anticipation of all the members of the board and secretariat for a fruitful venture this year.
In conclusion, the EV4GH Annual Board Meeting served as a platform for strategic planning, collaboration, and goal alignment, setting the stage for a successful and impactful venture not only in 2024 but also for the foreseeable future. As the network continues to expand and evolve, its commitment to enhancing global health outcomes remains resolute, paving the way for innovative solutions and collective progress.
Showcasing some Nagasaki t-shirts already!