Supporting the Professionalisation of Health Engineering studies and Related areas in Asia

The aim of the SPHERA Erasmus + proposal is to facilitate interdisciplinary studies in health engineering and related areas with a focus on improving existing conditions and in-depth knowledge of how to use medical equipment, deliver effective modern sanitation and other public health interventions in urban and rural areas in low-income and transitional economies. The project will build as well capacities that may reduce disaster risks and contribute to better and more targeted public health based relief following disasters. Through the creation of multidisciplinary postgraduate programs in Nepal and Uzbekistan, following the Bologna model (competence-based approach, learning outcomes and compatible with ECTS), the structure of the programs will lead to comparable degrees that will allow mutual recognition and increased students and teaching staff mobility. The partner Universities will be assisted by the EU Institutions to achieve this goal.A series of compulsory modules will develop teachers’ and students’ knowledge and skills in a range of areas. They will able to gain an understanding of the wider issues surrounding public health and how they impact on policy and practice. At the same time, they will be introduced to the principles and practice of public health engineering to bridge the gap between theory, policy and practice and explore medical technologies in hospitals and consider engineering responses to complex emergencies, especially regarding the provision of water supply, sanitary services and shelter. Some of the courses will be developed online by UNic.The ultimate goal of the project is to prepare a new generation of specialist engineers and technicians who will have major positive effects in both the health technology industry sector and the public health system through the appropriate management of emergency situations and safe use of medical technology.