Peoples-uni Mission and Objectives
The Mission
Peoples-uni started in 2006 with the mission “To contribute to improvements in the health of populations in low- to middle-income countries by building Public Health capacity via e-learning at very low cost”
The Objectives
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Provide Public Health education for those working in low- to middle-income countries who would otherwise not be able to access such education, via Internet-based e-learning
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Utilise a ‘social model’ of capacity building, with volunteer academic and support staff and Open Educational Resources available through the Internet, using a collaborative approach and modern Information and Communication Technology
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Offer education at the ‘train the trainers’ benchmarked to the master’s degree level, for those with prior educational and occupational experience
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Provide education that meets identified competencies that help with the evidence-based practice of Public Health and are action-oriented, to assist in tackling major health problems facing the populations in which the students work
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Create an educational portfolio including Continuing Professional Development modules and awards of Certificate, Diploma and Master of Public Health
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Work with the graduates of the educational programme, and other relevant partner organisations, in teaching, research, implementation of evidence-based health policy and advocacy to improve the health of their populations.
Comment
We are proud to note that each of the first 5 Objectives has been achieved. With the closure of Peoples-uni and the transfer of the educational programme to NextGEnU.org, the focus of those who established the programme will shift to Objective 6 - how can we build on the skills gained to improve the health of populations. A master’s degree is only the first step along this path.