Kuwait, 15 August 2023 – The World Health Organization (WHO) is proud to mark its 75th year anniversary by celebrating its achievements in improving public health. As a part of this milestone commemoration, the WHO country office in Kuwait took part in an international art competition campaign, entitled ’75 years of improving public health’. This campaign aimed to engage students aged 8 to 18 in creatively expressing their perspectives on global health and its significance.
WHO hosted an award ceremony under the patronage and presence of H.E. Minister of Health Dr Ahmed Al Awadhi on 15 August 2023 at the UN House to award the 3 winning students from Kuwait.
The competition garnered resounding success and enthusiasm, thanks to the collaboration and support of the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education. Dr Assad Hafeez, WHO Representative in Kuwait, commented during the event, “ When WHO initiated this art competition, the aim was to explore the unique perspective of children and witness how they depicted health through the power of art. We were astounded by the remarkable talent and creativity displayed by the young artists in Kuwait. Their artworks served as a testament to their understanding and awareness of crucial health-related issues that affect us all. They also serve as a reminder that the voices and visions of Kuwait’s youth hold great value in shaping the future of public health.”
The ’75 years of improving public health’ international art competition gained immense participation from across the Eastern Mediterranean Region, with involvement from 14 countries, including Kuwait. The WHO Regional Office received over 2000 submissions, reflecting the passion and dedication of young minds in creatively depicting global health challenges. From these submissions, 35 winners were selected, and among them emerged 3 exceptionally gifted students from their age groups representing Kuwait.
The WHO country office was delighted to receive over 100 art submissions from students spanning various public and private schools in the country. Dr Hafeez reiterated the importance of such initiatives, stating, “As we celebrate the 75th year anniversary of the World Health Organization; let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a healthier, more equitable world. I want to take this opportunity to reiterate our commitment to working with all stakeholders to promote ‘Health For All’ in Kuwait.”
In his address during the ceremony, His Excellency Dr Ahmed Abdulwahab Al Awadhi, Minister of Health, said during the ceremony, " I am pleased to be here today at the ceremony honouring the winning students from Kuwait, in the international art competition, on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization.”
H.E. Dr Al Awadhi extended his gratitude to everyone who contributed to this ceremony, as well as all individuals that play a role in contributing to enhancing health in the country, as well as commending Kuwait’s wise leadership. “I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this ceremony, and to all efforts aimed at promoting humanity, and in the field of health globally, and regionally, and efforts aimed at improving the health services provided in our beloved country, May god grant us success, under the wise leadership of H.H. the Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al–Ahmad Al-Jaber Al–Sabah, H.H. the Crown Prince Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Saba and H.H. Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmed Al-Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.
Mr Ali Hussein Dashti, representing the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education, said, "I am pleased and honoured to be here today representing the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education Mr Osama Hussein Al Sultan, at this ceremony on the occasion the 75 year anniversary of the World Health Organization. It is my pleasure on this occasion to commend the efforts exerted to initiate this art competition.”
Mr Dashti added, "In conclusion, I would like to congratulate WHO on its 75th anniversary and its efforts to promote global health and keep the world safe so that everyone everywhere can achieve the highest level of health and well-being.”
The WHO country office in Kuwait extends its heartfelt congratulations to the talented young Kuwaiti winners and expresses gratitude to all participants, supporters, and collaborators who made the art competition a resounding success.
About WHO
Dedicated to the well-being of all people and guided by science, the World Health Organization leads and champions global efforts to give everyone, everywhere and equal chance at a safe and healthy life. We are the United Nations agency for health that connects nations, partners, and people on the front lines in 150+ locations, leading the world’s response to health emergencies, preventing disease, addressing the root causes of health issues, and expanding access to medicines and health care. Our mission is to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable.
https://who.int
For further media inquiries please contact:
Serin Al Ghussein
Email:
Website: https://www.who.int/countries/kwt
