McMaster University (Global Health) and the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), Rwanda Sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), Rwanda and McMaster University Faculty of Health Sciences formalizes their commitment to collaborative efforts in global health education and research.

This agreement aims to enhance academic exchange, joint research initiatives, and capacity-building programs. Key components of the MOU include:

• Facilitating student and faculty exchanges to promote cross-cultural learning and professional development
• Developing joint research projects that address pressing global health challenges
• Organizing workshops, seminars, and conferences to share knowledge and best practices in global health
• Finding synergies between the McMaster Global Health Program and UGHE Masters program in educational, research, and service delivery offerings

Building upon Existing Collaborations: Dr. Esther Chin has been actively involved with the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), contributing significantly to the Ob/Gyn Clerkship through weekly curriculum development and planning meetings, teaching the Junior Clerkship Bootcamp, and co-teaching the Ethics in Global Surgery module for MGHD Global Surgery Option students. Dr. Chin’s influence extends beyond UGHE, fostering partnerships between the Rwanda Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RSOG) and the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. Her key initiatives include leading Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care training courses, conducting mentorship visits to Gasabo area district hospitals, and serving as an invited presenter and pre-conference workshop trainer at the 2023 and 2024 RSOG conferences.

Future Opportunities: The signing of this MOU opens doors for exciting new collaborations, such as welcoming UGHE Global Health fellows at McMaster University and exploring opportunities for McMaster fellows to engage with UGHE.

Present for the signing Ceremony : The MOU was signed by Dean Paul O’Byrne and Dean Abebe joined by  Dr. Sonia Anand, the AVP Global Health Program, and Dr. Esther Chin, the Director of the Global Surgery Diploma program and Phaedra Henley in Rwanda.