1. Overview

The Division of Public Health (OCS-DPH) is a specialised unit within the Orapuh College of Scholars, focusing on public health education, research, and advocacy. The division is led by a Divisional Director, supported by a Deputy Divisional Director, with Fellows providing mentorship.

2. Divisional Leadership and Roles

  • Divisional Director (Director, OCS-DPH): The Director is responsible for overseeing all activities related to the division, including strategy development, member coordination, and mentorship oversight.
  • Deputy Divisional Director (Deputy Director, OCS-DPH): Supports the Director and assumes their responsibilities when needed.
  • Fellows (Divisional Mentors): Serve as mentors to public health candidates, supporting their academic and professional development.

3. Divisional Activities

  • Event Planning: The OCS-DPH shall organise public health-related events, particularly during observances such as World Health Day. All activities require approval from the OCS President.
  • Resource Acquisition: Members should actively seek out resources and opportunities that support the division’s goals.
  • Monthly Review Meetings: A 30-minute mandatory meeting will be held monthly to discuss division progress, opportunities, and member contributions.

4. Membership Requirements

  • Eligibility: Candidates must have a background in public health or a related field, be enrolled in the OFP with a focus on public health, and be committed to advancing public health initiatives.
  • Expression of Interest (EOI): Must be submitted within one week following the orientation of a new OFP cohort. The EOI should detail the candidate’s background, focus area, and other pertinent information.
  • Focus Area: Each candidate must select a public health focus area and submit seven related topics of interest early in the OFP.

5. Mentorship

  • Assignment: Each public health candidate in the OFP will be assigned a mentor (Fellow) from the OCS-DPH, who will guide them through their fellowship.
  • Responsibilities: Mentors are responsible for ensuring that candidates meet their academic and project milestones, providing guidance without completing tasks for them.
  • Accountability: Non-compliant mentors may be replaced or subjected to disciplinary action by the ORDC.

6. Participation in Special Events

  • Pre-Oraposium/Oraposium Participation
    • Candidates must select public health topics aligned with their focus area for submission and approval. Participation in Oraposium is mandatory and must follow the established SOPs. This event is essential for showcasing research and engaging in scholarly discussions in the field of public health.
  • Orapuh Clinical Case Reviews (OCliCR)
    • Candidates are also required to participate in the Orapuh Clinical Case Reviews (OCliCR). They must propose and present clinical cases related to their public health focus area. Presentations must use the approved template and contribute to the practical understanding of public health issues within the OCS-DPH.
  • Orapuh Scholarly Concourse
    • Attendance at the monthly Orapuh Scholarly Concourse is compulsory. This event serves as a mentoring and strategy development platform, where candidates can refine their approaches and strategies in public health, guided by experienced mentors and peers.

7. Complaints, Inquiries, and Suggestions

  • Inquiries: Fellows are available to address questions and provide guidance.
  • Complaints: Should be escalated to the Divisional Director, who may involve the President if the issue exceeds their authority.
  • Suggestions: Can be communicated to the Divisional Director before review meetings for consideration.