Cloisters at University of Glasgow

The Adam Smith Business School has forged a strategic partnership with Public Health Scotland (PHS) to address the pressing issue of gambling addiction as part of the ‘Managing Healthcare Organisations’ module. This collaboration aims to leverage the expertise of both organisations to develop effective strategies and interventions to reduce the harm caused by gambling. 

Students from the Masters in Public Health programme (School of Health & Wellbeing), coordinated by Dr Peter Keenan at the Business School, played a pivotal role in the partnership. Through their coursework, they conducted in-depth research on gambling harm policies and treatment approaches from various countries. Their comprehensive presentations, delivered to Public Health Scotland officials, provided invaluable insights into effective strategies for addressing gambling addiction in Scotland. 

Ann Conacher, Organisational Lead for Smoking, Vaping, and Gambling Harm at Public Health Scotland, praised the students' work, stating that their presentations would be instrumental in informing future policy and service development. 

Dr Peter Keenan, Course Coordinator for the Managing Healthcare Organisations module, emphasised the importance of such partnerships. He said: "Working with real-world organisations like Public Health Scotland provides students with invaluable experience and helps them contribute to addressing pressing public health issues in practice." 

Dr Sharon Greenwood, the Masters in Public Health Programme Director, added, "Collaborations with external partners like Public Health Scotland enhance our students' learning and provide real-world applications of their knowledge." 

The partnership between the Adam Smith Business School and Public Health Scotland demonstrates the School's commitment to preparing students for careers in public health and contributing to important societal issues. This collaboration also highlights the value of external engagement in driving positive change and addressing complex challenges. The collaboration continues in academic year 2024-25 where students will help inform Scottish Government strategy on addressing the issue of vaping use in Scottish society.  


First published: 11 September 2024

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