Upcoming WHO Webinar: Launch of the Guide on Educating Medical and Nursing Students in Mental, Neurological and Substance Use Care

The World Psychiatric Association (WPA) is pleased to share with its global community an important upcoming event hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO): the launch webinar of WHO’s new guide, Educating Medical and Nursing Students in Mental, Neurological and Substance Use (MNS) Care. This landmark resource is designed to support institutions, educators, and policymakers in enhancing the quality and reach of MNS care education globally.

As a long-standing advocate for advancing mental health education and training, the WPA supports initiatives such as this, which aim to strengthen the preparation of future health professionals to meet the rising global need for high-quality MNS care.

We encourage all colleagues, educators, health professionals, and stakeholders in global health and education to join this important virtual event.

Date: Tuesday, 10 June 2025

Time: 08:00 EST / 14:00 CEST / 17:30 IST

Registration Link: Register here

About the Webinar

The webinar will introduce the WHO guide and explore its practical application in medical and nursing education worldwide. With the increasing global burden of mental health conditions, neurological disorders, and substance use issues, the integration of comprehensive MNS training in health curricula is more critical than ever.

A distinguished panel of speakers will share insights and reflections on the development and implementation of the guide.

Featured Speakers:

• Dévora Kestel

  Director, Department of Mental Health, Brain Health and Substance Use (MSD), World Health Organization

  
  

• Mark van Ommeren

  Head, Mental Health Unit (MSD), WHO

  
  

• Jose Javier Mendoza-Velasquez

  Psychiatrist, Professor, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM)

  
  

• Melody Asukile

  Neurologist and lecturer at the University of Zambia School of Medicine

  
  

• Carmel Clancy 

  Director Centre for Credentialling and Accreditation, International Consortium of Universities for Drug Demand Reduction

  
  

Moderator

• Shekhar Saxena

Adjunct Professor, Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health

This event provides a unique opportunity for educators, curriculum developers, policymakers, and practitioners to engage with global thought leaders and explore ways to strengthen MNS education in their own contexts.

Author: WPA