New partnership to raise awareness of post-conflict disability

Leading researchers from The University of Manchester and The University of Gulu, Uganda and senior officials from Health Education England (HEE) are to work together to investigate post-conflict disability issues in low and middle income countries in Africa and Asia. The initiative is supported by several higher education and affiliated healthcare institutions.

The University already leads on several pioneering projects, delivering the underlying ethos and vision for post-conflict disability, which it shares with the University of Gulu. However, the new partnership has now been made official following the visit by Ugandan colleagues to Manchester.

Professor Mahesh Nirmalan, the Faculty’s Vice-Dean for Social Responsibility hosted the visit and said: “The agreements signed between the Universities of Gulu, Manchester and HEE will strengthen our Faculty’s desire and intent in making ‘post-conflict disability’ a flagship programme within our ambitious Social Responsibility agenda.”

The afternoon was packed with inspiring talks from Professor Ged Byrne, Director of Education, HEE and Professor Emanuel Moro, Associate Professor of Surgery, at the University of Gulu.

Welcoming guests to the Faculty, Professor Ian Greer, Vice-President and Dean said: “Universities are not just about research and teaching, they are about transforming people’s lives, transforming their health and their aspirations, turning hope into reality. The Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health is delighted to play a part in driving forward positive partnerships to make changes happen”.