ACHIEVE Launch Event
Launch Event Picture
On the 20th of July 2023, history was made as the dynamic Academy for Collaborative Health Interprofessional Education and Vibrant Excellence (ACHIEVE) was born. This network is dedicated to forging a path of innovation and excellence in Health Professions Education (HPE). The Master of Ceremony (MC) Professor Jane Bleasel, Dean of the Joint Medical Program and Head of School, Medicine and Public Health introduced the dignitaries who gathered to witness this momentous occasion, including the Vice Chancellor (VC) of the University of Newcastle, Professor Alex Zelinsky.
The VC declared the event officially opened noting that ACHIEVE sets the pace and lays the foundation for interprofessional collaboration and leadership in HPE. The Director of ACHIEVE and Professor of Medical Education, Bunmi Malau-Aduli enlightened the audience on ACHIEVE’s mission, invoking the timeless wisdom of Helen Keller’s words: "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much."
The MC then introduced Professor Lambert Schuwirth from Flinders University, South Australia, a luminary in the HPE field and Keynote Speaker, who emphasised that HPE is inherently multi-disciplinary, requiring collaborative approach to advancing research. The critical steps for effective collaboration include understanding the nuances of multi, inter, and transdisciplinary research; building a network of scholars and practitioners; engaging with communities; and passionately advocating for synergistic efforts from all relevant stakeholders. Professor Schuwirth further stated that HPE research should not only be meaningful, but also of the highest quality, scientifically relevant, and timely. To thrive and flourish, HPE research also needs to be well resourced and visible, extending beyond the confines of formal publications to the sprawling realm of social media.
The event culminated with a panel discussion moderated by Professor Darrell Evans. The discussion panel from diverse health professions backgrounds included Professors Jenny May, Suzanne Evans, Charlotte Rees and Brian Jolly. Drawing from their rich personal experiences and professional expertise, the panellists discussed innovative approaches in HPE.
The birth of ACHIEVE signalled the promise of a dynamic interprofessional network of educators for a transformative journey capable of reshaping the future of healthcare.
Event Information
- Date: Thursday 20 July 2023 from 9:30am
- Location: Newcastle (City)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.