Manipal, November 28, 2024: The Prasanna School of Public Health (PSPH) at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has achieved a significant global distinction, becoming the only public health school in Asia and the 11th worldwide to be accredited by the Agency for Public Health Education Accreditation (APHEA), headquartered in Belgium. Effective from September 5, 2024, this five-year accreditation recognises PSPH’s dedication to excellence in public health education, training, and research.

This achievement places PSPH among an elite group of institutions, including the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine in the UK and the Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health in the USA. APHEA accreditation is a globally recognised mark of academic and professional quality, solidifying PSPH’s role as a leader in public health education in India and globally.

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M.D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, lauded the school’s accomplishment, saying, "This is a milestone in the journey of the relatively young Prasanna School of Public Health. The APHEA accreditation is a testament to our commitment to delivering world-class public health education and training.."

Dr. Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor Health Science, MAHE, highlighted the value this accreditation brings to students and faculty. He noted, "With this prestigious accreditation, students and faculty at PSPH will benefit from enhanced academic recognition worldwide.."

Dr. Cherian Varghese, Professor and Director of Prasanna School of Public Health, expressed his pride in the school’s growth, stating, "This is an extremely proud moment for PSPH. As the only public health school in Asia to be accredited by APHEA, we have established ourselves as leaders in public health education. This accreditation reaffirms our commitment to maintaining the highest academic standards and preparing our students to excel in the global public health arena.."

The Prasanna School of Public Health offers a wide range of master’s programs in Public Health, Data Science, Biostatistics, Digital Epidemiology, Social Work, Hospital Administration, and Health Technology, along with opportunities for doctoral research. The APHEA accreditation enhances PSPH's standing and ensures that its graduates are equipped with the skills and global recognition needed to succeed in the public health workforce.

Prof Cherian Varghese takes deep interest in partnering with Udupi District Health Office to promote health of various communities of Udupi. The institution works closely with the Dept of Health and Family Welfare, Udupi district and has supported various state and district lead health activities like COVID-19 surveillance, outbreak investigations, health and nutrition education for school children, young adults and older population, vaccination drives, screening programmes, etc. The institution also hosts global health symposium for national and international students for health system mapping of various health problems across the countries towards Sustainable Development Goals.