FIKES Online News—The Faculty of Health Sciences (FIKES) at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta welcomed a delegation from McGill University, Canada, led by Prof. Christopher P. Manfredi, Provost and Executive Vice-President of McGill University. This meeting marked a significant milestone in strengthening international networks through collaboration in education, research, and health policy development. Friday (December 5, 2025)

The discussion between FIKES, PLKI, and McGill University was intense and productive. One of the main topics of focus was the role of global and national health policies as the most powerful interventions in addressing public health issues. Prof. Manfredi emphasized that many health challenges cannot be solved through clinical approaches alone but require strong regulations and public policies.

The discussion highlighted Canada's success in reducing cigarette consumption through various strategic policies. These policies include increasing cigarette excise taxes, banning advertising and promotion, and restricting smoking areas. These policies have been shown to significantly reduce smoking prevalence over the past few decades, demonstrating that policy-based interventions have broad and sustainable impacts.

The McGill delegation also emphasized that lessons learned from Canadian policies can be adapted in various countries, including Indonesia, particularly in addressing health issues such as chronic diseases, tobacco use, and environmental health. A comprehensive policy approach is considered a catalyst for behavioral change while strengthening health systems.

Also present at the event were Prof. Dr. H. Arif Zamhari, M.Ag., Chair of the Center for International Cooperation Services (PLKI) at UIN Jakarta; Prof. Maila Dinia Husni Rahiem, M.A., Ph.D.; and Evi Muliyah, M.Si.; and Prof. Dr. Apt. Zilhadia, M.Sc., Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences (FIKES), Raihana Alkaff Nadraf, Ph.D., Head of the Public Health Study Program, Dr. Uswatun Khasanah, M.Kes., Vice Dean III of FIKES, and lecturers from the Public Health Study Program, including the administrator of the Master of Public Health program, Fajar Ariyanti, Ph.D.

In addition to health policy, the meeting also discussed opportunities for collaboration in double degree programs, further studies for lecturers and students, teacher exchanges, and international research and publication collaboration. Prof. Zilhadia welcomed these opportunities and emphasized FIKES' commitment to strengthening academic capacity and research contributions globally.

This visit is a strategic step in expanding FIKES' international network at UIN Jakarta and strengthening the role of academics in promoting health policies that have a broad impact on society. (UK)