The session on “Public Health Challenges and Strategies during the Covid-19 Pandemic” featured insightful presentations on various global issues. One study detailed the Covid-19 contact tracing experience in a Saudi Arabian healthcare center, highlighting effective methodologies and challenges. Another explored facilitators and barriers to Covid-19 vaccination among Serbian medical students, revealing factors influencing vaccine acceptance and hesitancy. A qualitative study from Sri Lanka addressed PPE supply chain challenges during the pandemic, proposing mitigation strategies and emphasizing the need for robust management. These presentations highlighted the diverse, complex public health challenges and innovative strategies implemented worldwide.

The session on “Exploration of Innovations for Shaping the Future of Healthcare” showcased pioneering studies and initiatives. Highlights included youth-driven preventive healthcare in Lesotho, insights into malaria prevention in Cameroon, and a conceptual analysis of leadership’s role in adopting electronic medical records. Research from Bangladesh examined tuberculosis preventive treatment among household contacts, while a Sri Lankan study analyzed social media addiction’s impact on sleep quality and physical activity among diabetes patients. The session also emphasized the importance of developing a public health workforce through focused partnerships, highlighting collaboration’s crucial role in advancing healthcare innovation.

The session on “Multidisciplinary Challenges in Promoting Healthcare and Wellbeing” showcased diverse research on various health issues. Studies included asthma management in Colombo, chronic disease prevention, and risk factors for bronchiectasis. Research highlighted alcohol use among male security personnel in Sri Lanka and the impact of truck drivers’ work environments on physical fatigue. Other studies examined self-esteem in Colombo’s emerging adults, oral health awareness at the National Dental Hospital, and family perceptions of drug rehabilitation in Sri Lanka. Additionally, an analysis of physical activity and diet among school children in Kalutara emphasized the importance of healthy lifestyle choices.

The session on “Bridging the Gap in Vulnerable Populations Healthcare and Wellness” addressed critical issues and innovative solutions to improve health outcomes for marginalized groups. One study showed that scheduled counseling significantly improved contraceptive continuation rates in a low- to middle-income country. Another study revealed significant nutritional deficiencies among pregnant women in urban slums. Research on cervical cancer screening among female teachers in Kalutara highlighted gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices. A systematic review discussed the challenges of implementing palliative care in developing countries, emphasizing the need for robust frameworks and resource allocation to enhance end-of-life care.