26
Jan

The global community is experiencing profound demographic transitions characterized by population aging, migration, rapid urbanization, and evolving family structures. These shifts exert increasing pressure on health systems, requiring them to adapt in ways that are equitable, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of diverse populations. Addressing these challenges is central to the overarching theme of the Prince Mahidol Award Conference (PMAC) 2026, which emphasizes the imperative of preparing health systems for a changing demographic world.

In this context, the Global Health Case Competition 2026 (GHCC) seeks to engage international teams of undergraduate and graduate students from diverse disciplines in the analysis of a complex global health case rooted in demographic transitions. Participants will be tasked with developing evidence-based, innovative, and actionable recommendations that address system-level challenges while upholding principles of health equity and social justice. Through this exercise, the competition aims to cultivate critical competencies among emerging leaders, including policy analysis, systems thinking, and cross-cultural collaboration. 

Hosted as an official PMAC 2026 Side Meeting, the competition provides a unique platform to amplify youth perspectives within the global health discourse. By fostering intellectual exchange and policy innovation, GHCC contributes not only to the professional development of future global health leaders but also to the broader dialogue on designing health systems that are inclusive, resilient, and responsive to demographic change.