KUWAIT CITY, Jan 30: The Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the World Health Organization (WHO) office in Kuwait on Wednesday to strengthen collaboration in research and development, and support scientific studies focused on public health, science, technology, and innovation.

Dr. Faisal Al-Humaidan, Acting Director General of KISR, expressed pride in this cooperation in a press statement. He highlighted that the MoU reflects the institute's commitment to utilizing its research capabilities in health-related fields, in line with the objectives of the WHO. He emphasized that the WHO is the leading global organization in public health and plays a crucial role in setting global health standards.

Dr. Al-Humaidan explained that this MoU presents a unique opportunity to integrate KISR’s scientific research with the expertise and global reach of the WHO. This collaboration will contribute to achieving sustainable development goals, particularly those associated with the "One Health" concept. This concept seeks to establish a balance between human, environmental, and animal health. The WHO has successfully developed and implemented this approach globally to improve public health and enhance the development productivity of countries.

He added that KISR’s partnership with the WHO office in Kuwait is especially valuable, as it focuses on research and development. It will allow KISR's centers, particularly the Environmental Research and Life Sciences Center, to apply scientific research in vital areas such as food and nutrition, epidemic control, antimicrobial resistance, climate change, environmental health, and occupational health.

The cooperation with WHO will also involve supporting health initiatives based on scientific evidence that have proven successful in other countries. An appropriate mechanism will be established to evaluate the effectiveness of these initiatives in Kuwait. Additionally, specialized training programs will be organized to support researchers in scientific and research areas of shared interest.

Dr. Al-Humaidan stressed the importance of this cooperation in strengthening public health policies in Kuwait, benefiting from global research expertise to develop solutions that will serve society. He reiterated KISR’s commitment to continuing its efforts to support studies and research programs that contribute to the country’s health and development goals.

Dr. Asad Hafeez, WHO representative in Kuwait, expressed similar sentiments, noting that the WHO considers KISR an ideal partner due to its extensive research experience and prestigious standing as the national institution dedicated to scientific studies and development. He commended KISR’s integrated approach to addressing national development challenges and their future prospects.

Dr. Hafeez also mentioned that the WHO office in Kuwait, which opened in 2021, aims to enhance the organization's presence in the country and solidify cooperation with the Kuwaiti government, UN agencies, and national institutions. The goal is to improve public health, promote well-being, and support health programs at both national and regional levels.