Reflections from the Head of School
As we near the end of spring, I hope you and your families are keeping well and looking forward to the summer, and potentially some leave. There remains a great deal happening though as we head into the final stretch of the year, and I’m excited to share some key highlights with you.
Earlier this month, we launched the final version of Advancing Medicine, the new strategic plan for the School. Building on the strategic work completed in 2023 on the School's purpose and vision, we have spent a number of months in 2024 consulting with various stakeholders to first shape and then refine a new strategic plan. This plan represents a pivotal moment for our School, as it builds on our core values and priorities to help us adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing environment. I encourage you to take a look at the strategy.
The School also launched the digital edition of Chiron, focusing on advancing the medical workforce of the future. This edition is packed with some of the many impressive accomplishments of the School, alumni, and the broader community in preparing and training future health professionals. You can explore the latest edition here.
Last month, I had the pleasure of attending the ninth iteration of the Ngar-wu Wanyarra Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Conference, held at the Department of Rural Health in Shepparton on Wednesday 9 October. It was a privilege to hear keynote speakers Professor Sandra Eades (Deputy Dean – Indigenous) and award-winning author and international speaker Dr Anita Heiss share their invaluable insights on advancing health and wellbeing of First Nations youth. I also had a fantastic time participating in traditional weaving with local Yorta Yorta artist Tammy-Lee Atkinson (end product not fit for public display!).
I was delighted to be among four Melbourne Medical School staff who were announced as Fellows of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences. I’d like to take a moment to congratulate my fellow recipients for their achievements and contributions to health and medical sciences in Australia:
- Professor Sharon Goldfeld AM from the Department of Paediatrics and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute
- Professor Paul James, Department of Medicine – Royal Melbourne Hospital
- Professor Stephen Tong from the Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health and Mercy Hospital for Women.
As the year draws towards a close, I would like to take a moment to express my gratitude for your incredible efforts throughout 2024. I wish you all well for the upcoming holidays and hope you have a relaxing and restful break.
Best regards
Professor Sarath Ranganathan
Head of the Melbourne Medical School