Media releases

Health Science students from Federation University Australia have gathered invaluable international knowledge during their recent study trip to Scotland.

The five students were hosted by the University of Highlands and Islands at Inverness, Perth and Isle of Lewis campuses.

The trip was part of a Federal Government program to provide international study experiences in health promotion and public health. 

“Federation University Australia and the University of Highlands and Islands have had a strong history of collaboration,” Peter Hopwood, co-ordinator of the University’s Health Sciences Program, said.  

“Both universities are amongst the largest regional multi-campus tertiary learning organisations in the world and frequently communicate about the delivery of health content.”

The FedUni students’ study agenda included a two-day conference in Inverness that focused on the delivery of health service to remote areas of northern Europe.

Another experience included lengthy meetings with the Western Isles division of the National Health Board of Scotland. The students felt that they learnt a lot and are keen to continue studies in global health.

“The trip was a huge success. The experience not only provided students with valuable knowledge for their future employment, but also consolidated the strong goodwill between both universities,” Mr Hopwood said.

“There are many similarities in Australian and Scottish health services in regional and remote areas.

“The relationship between a community’s health status and access to health services is a universal phenomenon.

“FedUni is keen to continue seeking opportunities for students to experience overseas study and the students have also expressed a desire to continue their friendships with the University of Highlands’ students and staff that they met whilst overseas.”

Picture: Tanya Hetherington, Katherine O’Dwyer, Peter Hopwood, Ambrose Launder, Tayla Ellis and Jade Ringin