The HIV theme week is organised as part of the course ‘Addressing Disease burden in a Global Context’, offered by the Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development (AIGHD). The week was led by renowned expert prof. dr. Eduard Sanders (Oxford, KEMRI, Kenya), the Aurum Institute (South Africa), and Guus ten Asbroek (AIGHD).
Context matters
The course sets itself apart by addressing the burden of disease from a quantitative perspective, whereas the majority of courses take on a qualitative point of view. However, its distinctive nature extends beyond methodology. Engaging students in discussions about vulnerable, stigmatised, and hard-to-reach populations in Sub-Saharan Africa has become a hallmark of this course. The motto "Context Matters" reflects the course's commitment to understand the complex interplay of factors influencing health outcomes.
Local experts
Over the past decade, the theme week has evolved significantly, guided by feedback from students. Crucially, the involvement of local experts has been a key factor. They have enriched the HIV theme week tremendously, by hosting virtual lectures, engaging in student discussions, and co-designing exercises. The insights these experts provide by sharing stories about their real-life experiences in working with key populations can never be surpassed by second or third-hand stories of more distantly involved researchers based in, for example, Europe.
International student population
Another notable change over the years has been the diversification of the student population. With more students from abroad and lower-middle-income settings, the course fosters richer discussions and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives among students and facilitators alike. The belief that global health topics are best taught and discussed in international contexts is a driving force behind the course's success.
A transdisciplinary approach
The evolving content and transdisciplinary approach of the course reflect the world’s broadening perspective on global health. Mental health, for example, is a top priority nowadays. We would no longer think of addressing HIV without discussing mental health too. Students explore innovations in this field in close collaboration with partners in Africa.
Expanding collaborations with the Global South
While celebrating a decade of inspiring interactions with students, we also look ahead. In the future, the course aims to further strengthen its ties with researchers and programme implementers from the Global South. In this truly international community of learning, we are looking forward to expand the engagement of national and international students with international partners so that we can continue to support the next generation of Global Health experts.
Learn more about the research master Global Health