Addressing the demands of the future workforce, young individuals are encouraged to actively engage in practical initiatives, drawing upon their wisdom and strength in areas like environmental climate, health emergencies, and policy-making to effectively tackle the diverse challenges posed by impending pandemics. In October 2023, the Academic Committee of the World Health Forum issued a call for papers, inviting youth scholars globally to share their research and practical experiences, exemplifying the responsibility of the younger generation and presenting their unique insights and action plans for pandemic response. Ultimately, nine outstanding young scholars were honored with the "World Health Forum Youth Scholars Award."

On November 4th, the Youth Forum of the 3rd World Health Forum unfolded. Margaret Chan, the dean of the School of Public Health, attended the event, and Amanda Bissex, the UNICEF deputy representative to China, delivered the opening address. The nine award-winning young scholars, previously announced, were present, delivering keynote speeches. Tan Sze Wee, the assistant chief executive of the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research in Singapore, and Wang Kaibo, deputy dean of VSPH, provided expert commentary and engaged in discussions with the young scholars. Tan also gave the closing remarks. Additionally, Zhao Ai, Li Zhihui, and Chen Runsen, Assistant Professors at VSPH, attended as academic advisors. Deanna Sim, a 2023 International Master of Public Health student skillfully hosted the Youth Forum.

In her speech, Amanda Bissex emphasized the impact of the pandemic on children, highlighting its repercussions on life, health, education, and the future development of children. Stressing the importance of inclusivity in addressing major health system issues, she suggested, "In addressing the major issues in our health system, we must ensure that everyone, including young people, is involved."

Following this, the nine Youth Scholars Award winners presented their thematic reports. Tan Sze Wee and Wang Kaibo provided expert insights, with Tan commending the high-quality reports and expressing anticipation for future contact and increased interdisciplinary and international collaboration. Wang extended congratulations to the award winners, acknowledging the meaningful conclusions drawn from fresh perspectives and rigorous research. The range of topics covered vaccines, pandemics, technological breakthroughs, national pandemic prevention and control experiences, mental health, and the relationship between COVID-19 and liver diseases, demonstrating innovative thinking. The participants not only addressed the pandemic itself but also delved into various subjects such as mental health and chronic diseases during the pandemic, instilling confidence in our ability to face future pandemics. Wang also expressed gratitude to the teachers who participated in the academic review of the youth forum.

Chao Guo

Report topic: The Impact of the Global COVID-19 Pandemic Exposure on Current and Future Worldwide Environmental Protection

Xizhuo Xie

Report topic: The psychological impact of COVID-19 responders and how to reduce it: a mixed method study in the China-Myanmar border areas, COVID-19

Hao Lei

Report topic: Roles of age groups and indoor environment in influenza and SARS-CoV-2 transmission

Fong Siew-Wai 

Report topic: Advancing Serological Assays: Strengthening Antibody Detection for Enhanced Pandemic Preparedness

Shuyan Gu

Report topic: Nudging Vaccine Uptake: Exploring the Framing Effect of Vaccine Sequelae on Vaccination Intention

Xiaolong Qi

Report topic: COVID-19 infection and vaccines in patients with pre-existing chronic liver diseases

Chang Zi Wei 

Report topic: Enhancing Pandemic Preparedness through the Detection of Antigen-Specific T and B Cell

Cyprain Dorgbetor

Report topic: Pandemic preparedness in the context of a municipality in Ghana for disease X

Irene Lorinda

Report topic: Strengthening Health System for Pandemic Preparedness

Subsequently, Amanda Bissex, Tan Sze Wee, and Wang Kaibo, on behalf of the World Health Forum, presented the "World Health Forum Youth Scholars Award" to young scholars.

In the closing remarks, Tan Sze Wee encouraged young scholars to focus their future research on themes such as fairness, accessibility, and the enhancement of social trust. He eagerly anticipates witnessing more groundbreaking and influential work from young scholars in the future.