South African first African President of World Federation of Public Health Associations
The Minister of Science and Technology, Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, congratulates Prof. Laetitia Rispel on her appointment as the new President of the World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA).
The first African and the third woman to lead the international body, Prof Rispel has over 30 years' experience in public health, research, teaching, strategy, health policy, leadership and executive management. She holds the DST/NRF SARChI Chair for Research on the Health Workforce for Equity and Quality, which is hosted by the University of the Witwatersrand.
The member of the Academy of Science of South Africa has written extensively over the years, producing 92 publications in her field, including peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, editorials and opinions.
The Minister expressed excitement that the South African would lead the esteemed organisation, which brings together public health professionals interested in safeguarding and promoting public health through professional exchange, collaboration and action. The WFPHA has contributed to changes in health and environmental health policy around the globe since it was founded in 1967.
"Professor Rispel has been a good ambassador of science for South Africa in the global arena and we are proud of her work as a researcher and professor of public health policy," said Minister Kubayi-Ngubane.
"We are delighted that she is bearing the torch for the leadership of women to be recognised. She is an inspiration to many young and aspiring public health professionals, and women in general. We wish her well in her tenure as president," the Minister said.
Enquiries:
Fred Mokoko
Cell: 076 520 5641
E-mail: Fred.Mokoko@dst.gov.za
