The Public Health Society’s launch event for the academic year on the 14th of October will be an interactive, student-led session designed to introduce students to the Society through discussion, debate, critical thinking and teamwork.

The event will include a series of short activities and challenges based around public health, ethics, society, research and everyday university life. Activities may include myth-busting, “change my mind” debates, team-based dilemmas, ethical scenarios, research critique and creative problem-solving challenges.

Students will be encouraged to discuss controversial statements, consider different perspectives, work in small groups and present their ideas to others. For example, groups may be asked to decide how they would prioritise university funding, respond to an ethical dilemma, critique weaknesses in a piece of research, or develop a solution to a real-world public health problem.

The session is intended to be informal, inclusive and accessible to students from all years and degree backgrounds. No prior knowledge of public health is required, and activities will be structured to encourage participation, collaboration and knowledge-sharing between newer and returning students.

The event will also provide an opportunity for students to meet the Public Health Society committee, learn more about the Society’s agenda, activities and connect with other students interested in public health and related fields.