CIDER, an innovative initiative aimed at improving pandemic preparedness and strengthening responses to infectious disease emergencies, has been officially launched by the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine). The launch was graced by Guest-of-Honour, Mr Ong Ye Kung, Minister for Health, Singapore and attended by over 15 ambassadors and other country representatives.
Led by infectious diseases and global health expert and Centre Director Professor Dale Fisher, CIDER will serve as an education and operational hub for public health professionals, researchers, and policymakers across Singapore and internationally. Prof Fisher is currently also Professor of Medicine at NUS Medicine, Group Chief of Medicine at the National University Health System (NUHS), and Senior Consultant in the Division of Infectious Diseases, National University Hospital (NUH).
The Centre is part of NUS Medicine’s ongoing commitment to building a robust global health infrastructure. Through a wide range of training, teaching, and operational initiatives, CIDER will play a crucial role in enabling healthcare professionals to tackle infectious disease outbreaks with improved resilience and response capabilities. As part of its mission, CIDER will focus on expanding regional capacity to prevent, prepare for, detect, and respond to infectious disease emergencies—with a long-term vision to foster global health equity.
On this occassion, NUS Press unveiled CIDER's guide book, "Infectious Disease Emergencies: Preparedness and Responses", designed to guide professionals in managing infectious disease crises. through evidence-based resource.
Prof Fisher said, "CIDER—a Centre will advance research and education and have a direct and tangible impact on national health systems. Through establishing the Centre, we aim to empower the next generation of public health leaders to effectively respond to infectious disease emergencies and, ultimately, contribute to a healthier, more resilient world."
Dr Louisa Sun, Deputy Director, CIDER, added, “The MSc IDE programme is an amalgam of academic rigour with real-world application. With comprehensive training in areas such as outbreak dynamics, prevention strategies, and emergency response management, we will equip professionals to make a real difference in global health crises.”
Professor Chong Yap Seng, Lien Ying Chow Professor in Medicine, and Dean of NUS Medicine, said, “The launch of CIDER marks a significant milestone in Singapore's ongoing efforts to position itself as a global leader in public health and pandemic preparedness. By offering educational opportunities, practical training, and operational support, CIDER aims to enhance public health systems, particularly in low-income countries, through scholarships and financial aid for professionals from these regions.”
