The Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS) has commenced the 13th edition of its Education through Work for Health Program (PET-Saúde), which addresses the health impacts of climate change. The initiative, titled "Networks that Protect: Training, Care and Health Surveillance in the Face of Climate Emergencies in Porto Alegre," officially started on August 3rd and is a collaboration with the Porto Alegre City Hall, the Ministries of Health and Education.
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With 64 scholarship recipients, PET-Health: Climate has received significant national recognition, ranking 14th among 197 projects approved across Brazil and securing 1st place in Porto Alegre and 3rd in Rio Grande do Sul.
The program promotes the integration of education, health services, and community engagement. It operates in areas under the East Health Coordination in Porto Alegre and involves students and faculty from various PUCRS departments, including Health and Life Sciences, Medicine, and Law.
Professor Clarissa Blattner from the School of Health and Life Sciences emphasized that continued participation in PET-Saúde aligns with the university’s commitment to addressing societal needs and supporting the Brazilian Public Health System (SUS).
The initiative fosters collaborative efforts among students, faculty, and health professionals on pressing issues like climate change and health equity. Milene Cassalha, coordinator of the PET-Saúde: Climate program at the Porto Alegre Municipal Health Department, noted that the project strengthens the partnership between the university and the city, blending academic insights with community health needs.
Cassalha highlighted that the program not only enhances academic collaboration but also aims to develop effective local health strategies that reflect the realities of climate challenges. Professor Blattner added that the trajectory of PET-Saúde showcases PUCRS's dedication to social responsibility and training professionals who are equipped to tackle contemporary health challenges.