The first step towards establishing the Queen's professorship
On Thursday 10 October, the first step was taken towards the creation of Queen Silvia's Professorship in Global Child and Adolescent Health with a focus on mental health. At a roundtable discussion in the university's main building, with the personal participation of the Queen, it was discussed how research, together with public, private and non-profit activities, can contribute to a better future for the world's young people.
10 October, which is World Mental Health Day, marked the starting point for the University of Gothenburg's investment in one of the greatest global challenges of our time: the mental health of children and young people.
At a roundtable discussion, with representatives of the WHO, UNICEF, UNHCR, Wellcome Trust, the University of Gothenburg, the region and schools, it was discussed how different parts of society can work together to support children and young people.
Early intervention to support children in need
In her introductory speech, Queen Silvia emphasised the importance of good mental health, in order to cope with school. Efforts to support needy children must be made early.
– No child should have to fight alone. With the help of robust research into how best to provide support, we can improve conditions for children around the world.
The mental health of children and young people is an area that requires collaboration between research, education and various representatives of society, explained Vice-Chancellor Malin Broberg.
– With war, conflicts and global climate change, it's easy to despair. But the future is not set in stone, things can get better. That's why we're here, each of us can make a difference.
WHO Secretary-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who participated via link, explained that the world's governments only invest 2 percent of their health budget in mental health.
– Only a fraction of this small investment goes to children and young people, which is a very underfunded area. Yet it is the case that without mental health, there is no health at all.
Several speakers pointed out the importance of supporting children and young people in low-income countries. The support must also be effective and well thought, so that it does not inadvertently exacerbate the situation. Children and young people must also be involved in the research and efforts that concern them.
– It was an extremely good seminar that added new perspectives to the announcement of Queen Silvia's professorship. I feel very strong support from the international organisations present, as well as from the city and the region. The queen in particular contributed brilliantly to the discussion.
The advertisement for the professorship is already out, Per Cramér said.
– The person we are looking for can be a doctor, psychologist, health economist or something else. The important thing is that the person is an environmental builder, who can look beyond their own discipline, and create an interdisciplinary environment that collaborates internationally across different borders.
Text: Eva Lundgren
- Advertisement: Queen Silvia’s Professorship in Global Child and Adolescent Health
- Queen Silvia's professorship in global child and adolescent health with a focus on mental health is based on a collaboration with Carl Bennet AB, which contributes SEK 20 million. The professorship is expected to be appointed in the spring of 2025.
- On 10 October, a roundtable discussion was held in Vasaparken, with the participation of Her Majesty Queen Silvia. Other participants: Malin Broberg, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Gothenburg; Per Cramér, Professor of International Law; Pernilla Baralt, Secretary General, UNICEF Sweden; Sylvie Fagard-Sultan, Médecins Sans Frontières; Miranda Wolpert, Director, Wellcome Trust; Karin Looström Muth, Development Director, Region Västra Götaland; Kate Abrahamsson, Director of Operations, Queen Silvia's Children's Hospital; Maria Andersson, Director of Administration, Compulsory School Administration; Annika Sandlund, Nordic and Baltic Director, UNHCR; Peter Friberg, Professor of Medicine; Henry Ascher, Professor of Public Health.
- Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the WHO, participated via link.
- On Friday 11 October, the Global Child and Adolescent Mental Health Conference will be held with the participation of several international experts and prominent researchers.