Hope Amid Uncertainty: Training Tomorrow’s Global Health Leaders

As Director of the International Master of Public Health (IMPH) Program at Hebrew University of Jerusalem, I’ve witnessed countless moments of triumph and transformation. But few have moved me as deeply as our recent graduation ceremony for the 49th class of IMPH graduates.

In the familiar surroundings of Hadassah’s Ein Kerem campus, 22 remarkable individuals from across the globe gathered to celebrate their achievement. The significance of this moment wasn’t lost on any of us – these students chose to complete their studies in Jerusalem during one of Israel’s most challenging periods, in the aftermath of October 7th and amid ongoing conflict.

Their determination speaks volumes about their commitment to public health and their belief in a better future for all communities, regardless of borders or backgrounds. As I watched them receive their diplomas, many proudly wearing their traditional national dress, I was reminded of why our program remains so vital in today’s complex world.

The IMPH program isn’t just about academic achievement – it’s about preparing healthcare professionals to tackle real-world challenges. Our graduates include physicians, nurses, economists, and social scientists who return to their home countries equipped with crucial tools in epidemiology, biostatistics, and health administration. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of our alumni were at the forefront of their nations’ responses, demonstrating the practical impact of their training.

At this year’s ceremony, we were honored to welcome back Dr. Eugene Kongnyuy, our 2006 graduate who now serves as Deputy Director of the Humanitarian Response Division at UNFPA in Geneva. His journey from IMPH student to global health leader embodies the impact we hope all our graduates will achieve. As he told our new graduates, “Focus on finding your niche in global health… Once you identify where your heart is, you can make an incredible impact.”

Prog. Hagit Hochner together with Dr. Eugene Kongnyuy, Alumni of the IMPH, who referred to the IMPH Program as “excellent—one of the best public health programs you’ll ever find”

The ceremony itself was a delicate balance of celebration and solemnity. We couldn’t ignore the context of our gathering – the ongoing hostage crisis in Gaza and the broader regional tensions. Yet somehow, this backdrop made the achievements of our graduates even more meaningful. Their presence in Jerusalem, their dedication to learning, and their commitment to improving global health represent the very best of human potential.

This year’s cohort has already demonstrated exceptional resilience. They’ve completed demanding coursework while processing complex global events happening literally on their doorstep. They’ve formed bonds across cultural and national boundaries, proving that collaboration and mutual understanding are possible even in the most challenging circumstances.

None of this would be possible without the steadfast support of our partners – Pears Foundation, British Friends of Hebrew University, American Friends of Hebrew University, Italian Friends of Hebrew University, and MASHAV – Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Their commitment to our program enables us to continue nurturing the next generation of public health leaders.

As these 22 graduates return to their home countries, they join our growing network of IMPH alumni working across the globe. They carry with them not just technical knowledge and professional skills, but also a profound understanding of how public health can bridge divides and improve lives across all communities.

In these uncertain times, their graduation offers a powerful reminder of hope – hope that through education, collaboration, and dedicated service, we can build a healthier, more peaceful world. As we bid farewell to our 49th class, we look forward to hearing of their future achievements and the positive changes they will undoubtedly bring to their communities.

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem remains committed to our mission of fostering knowledge and understanding across borders. Even in these challenging times, we continue to believe in the power of education to transform lives and build bridges between communities. Our IMPH program stands as testament to this enduring commitment.

Prof. Hagit Hochner is the Director of the International Master of Public Health Program at the Hebrew University-Hadassah Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine. To learn more about the Hebrew University’s diverse array of over 50 degree programs available in English for both undergraduate and graduate students, visit our degree programs page.  Register for upcoming Digital Open Days for International Degree Programs here.