The Special Initiative on NCDs and Innovation (SNI) of the WHO European Region, Université Côte d’Azur, and Ulysseus European University will hold a four-day summer school on 'Systems thinking and innovation for the prevention of noncommunicable diseases and a healthy ageing population in the WHO European Region,' in Nice, France 15-18 July 2025, with technical support from Queen’s University Belfast and York University. The aim of the summer school is to explore systems thinking theory, develop the capacity and expertise to use systems-based methods and design thinking process to foster a human-centred approach to problem-solving and innovation for preventing NCDs and promoting healthy ageing through the practical application of these methods. The participants will be equipped with the tools and techniques to conduct user research, analyse data, identify patterns, and generate insights that drive the development of innovative solutions.
The summer school is designed for researchers, health practitioners and policy makers interested in applying systems thinking and systems-based approaches to advance evidence-based policies, strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration and improve policy implementation.
The school will support participants in:
• understanding systems thinking theory, techniques and tools;
• acquiring the ability to identify and analyse key problems related to NCD prevention and healthy ageing, ensuring that their solutions are rooted in user needs and aspirations;
• developing a range of innovative solutions that address challenges in NCD prevention and healthy ageing;
• identifying common patterns in complex systems and how to mitigate them to implement policies and strategies more successfully; and
• developing skills to transfer research into policy.
The training will take place from 15-18 July 2025 in Nice, France.
The teaching language will be in English. Certification will be provided.
Financial information:
• school covers expenses for training, lunch each day, and a welcome dinner on the first day.
• applicant covers expenses for travel, accommodation, and any other related costs during the summer school.
The application process will open 18 December 2024 and close 31 January 2025.
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