Deakin University and GAHP Partner on Student-Led Communications Campaign

Pollution remains one of the leading environmental causes of death and disease worldwide, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income communities. The Global Alliance on Health and Pollution (GAHP) works with governments, institutions and partners across the globe to reduce this burden through evidence-based action and advocacy. As part of this ongoing effort, GAHP has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Deakin University in Australia to bring fresh, youth-led thinking to its public communications work.

Under the agreement, undergraduate students enrolled in Deakin's Public Relation unit will develop original public relations campaign concepts for GAHP, with the aim of strengthening how the organisation communicates its mission to global, regional or local audiences. The collaboration connects GAHP directly with the next generation of communications professionals, while giving students the opportunity to apply their skills to a real-world global health challenge.

The partnership reflects GAHP's broader commitment to working collaboratively with academic institutions to expand the reach and creativity of its communications, while offering students meaningful, applied experience. Past collaborations have been made with University of Geneva, University of Birmingham, and Makerere University.

Looking ahead, GAHP will review the students' final campaign pitches in September and may draw on their ideas to inform future communications planning. The collaboration may also serve as a model for similar academic partnerships in other regions, as GAHP continues to seek innovative ways to engage new audiences in the fight against pollution.