Two leaders in the global fight against STIs
As of this week, Alfred Health's Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) is home to not one, but two incoming Presidents of large international organisations in the field of sexually transmitted infections.
Professor Kit Fairley will serve as President of the International Union Against Sexually Transmitted Infections (IUSTI), while Professor Eric Chow will become President of the International Society for STD Research (ISSTDR).
“We believe this could be the first occasion where both Presidents are from the same institution,” Prof Chow said.
“For us, these appointments reflect the global recognition of MSHC’s leadership and impact in sexual health research.”
When asked about their top priorities, both Prof Chow and Prof Fairley described similar goals, the first of which is to drive cutting-edge research.
“We also know that the prevention and control of STIs depends on strong global networks,” Prof Fairley said.
"So we’ll be looking to create more opportunities for collaboration in the form of partnerships and scholarships for early and mid-career researchers and colleagues in low- and middle-income countries.”
Prof Chow agreed, saying it will also be important to ensure all regions, genders and disciplines have representation in both organisations.
“Inclusion and accessibility go hand in hand,” Prof Chow said.
“So another of our priorities is to expand access to our knowledge and resources by creating innovative digital content, multilingual resources and inclusive engagement strategies.”
The appointments will be announced at this year’s STI and HIV World Congress in Montreal, Canada.
