March 24-30, 2008 has been dubbed the "Global Health Week of Action" by University Coalitions for Global Health (UCGH), which is a coalition of international health-focused organizations and individuals with a university presence (see http://www.ucgh.org).

Given the diversity of Manitoba's population and the pertinence of global health and health equity issues to this population, it only seemed appropriate that faculty and students of the University of Manitoba participate.

As a result, there will be a Global Health Lecture Series at the University of Manitoba Bannatyne Campus running from March 25-28 and on April 17. The purpose of this event is to generate student and faculty interest in global health issues, to encourage development of global health and health equity curricula at the university and to take action in solidarity with people and communities in need.

The schedule of events is as follows

Tuesday, March 25, 12pm—1pm
"Why Canadian Public Health Scientists work on Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers"
Dr Steven Jones
Head, Immunopathology, Emerging Bacterial Diseases & Microbiological Emergency Response Teams
Theatre C, Basic Medical Sciences Building, University of Manitoba

Wednesday, March 26, 12pm—1pm
Keynote Address: "Global Health in Manitoba"
Dr Allan Ronald
Distinguished Professor Emeritus, University of Manitoba
Theatre C, Basic Medical Sciences Building, University of Manitoba

Thursday, March 27, 12pm—1pm
"Little Travellers: Triumphs and Challenges in International AIDS Activism"
Ilan Schwartz
Founder & President of Little Travellers HIV/AIDS Initiative
Room 204, Brodie Centre, University of Manitoba

Friday, March 28, 12pm—1pm
"Medical Anthropology 101: Social, Cultural and Political Perspectives of Health and Illness"
Jordan Sloshower
MSc Medical Anthropology, University of Edinburgh
Theatre C, Basic Medical Sciences Building, University of Manitoba

Thursday, April 17, 12pm—1pm
"Preparing to Work Overseas By Working in the Canadian North"
Dr Nichole Riese
Northern Medical Unit Physician & Médecins Sans Frontières Volunteer
Theatre C, Basic Medical Sciences Building, University of Manitoba