Guest Lecture Inspires Creative Strategies for Universal and Primary Health Care at FKM UNHAS
The Faculty of Public Health (FKM) at Hasanuddin University (UNHAS) once again opened a window to global insights for its academic community. Through a Guest Lecture titled “Innovate to Elevate: Crafting Smart Solutions for Public Health Impact”, FKM UNHAS invited participants to explore the importance of innovation in addressing the increasingly complex challenges of public health on 5 August 2025.
Held in the Prof. Nasry Noor Room, the event was opened by the Dean of FKM UNHAS, Prof. Sukri Palutturi, SKM., M.Kes., MSc.PH., Ph.D., who reaffirmed the faculty’s commitment to implementing its global vision through international academic collaboration. “Collaborations like this are a tangible manifestation of our commitment,” said Prof. Sukri.
Serving as the keynote speaker, Prof. Dr. Fernando B. Garcia Jr., Dean of the College of Public Health at the University of the Philippines, delivered an engaging presentation. In addition to his role as dean, Prof. Garcia is also the Director of SEAMEO TropMed Philippines and Vice President of the Asian Health Literacy Association. In his session, he highlighted three main objectives: introducing the basic concepts of creativity and innovation, discussing their role in the implementation of Universal Health Care (UHC) and Primary Health Care (PHC), and identifying innovative solutions using the SCAMPER approach.
One of the main highlights of Prof. Garcia’s presentation was his introduction of the SCAMPER method—an acronym serving as a framework for creative thinking. This method is not merely theoretical but offers practical guidance for creating relevant and sustainable local solutions. The approach is valuable not only for health practitioners but also for students and community members eager to actively participate in solving health problems in their surroundings.
Attended by lecturers, students, and public health professionals, the event was filled with enthusiasm. An interactive discussion session provided participants with a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of innovation-based public health practices. Through this activity, FKM UNHAS once again reinforced its position as an adaptive and proactive institution in building international networks, committed to producing graduates who are ready to compete on the global stage.