WHO/Europe has designated the Friede Springer Endowed Professorship for Global Child Health at Witten/Herdecke University as a new WHO Collaborating Centre for Global Child Health.
The centre, based in Germany, will focus on improving quality care for children and adolescents through training, implementation support and evidence generation.
It will coordinate the development and implementation of training materials for the Pocket book of primary health care for children and adolescents.
The centre will also monitor and evaluate these processes and conduct research to support A healthy start for a healthy life: a strategy for child and adolescent health and well-being in the WHO European Region 2026–2030.
Professor Ralf Weigel said: “This designation is an opportunity to make a tangible contribution to children’s health through strengthening primary health care.
“It will advance our institution’s capacity in research, teaching and advocacy for children’s health and well-being.”
He also acknowledged the financial support of the Friede Springer Foundation for the centre’s work.
Sophie Jullien, technical officer for child and adolescent health at WHO/Europe, said: “The designation of this collaborating centre marks an important step towards advancing child and adolescent health.
“Through innovative training packages and evidence-based resources, we will support health professionals in delivering high-quality care and ensure that every child and adolescent benefits from stronger primary health services.”
WHO/Europe said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring children and adolescents across the WHO European Region have access to high-quality, evidence-based primary healthcare services