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20 September 2016

Issues critical to communities across the world will be discussed at an international symposium in Brisbane from September 22 to 25.

Challenges around the themes of ageing; food, water and climate change; energy and environment; and public health will be in the spotlight at the McDonnell International Scholars Academy 6th International Symposium at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

University of Queensland Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Peter Høj said the symposium, co-hosted by ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø and the Washington University in St Louis, USA (WUSTL), would bring together international researchers, policy makers and corporate partners.

“Discussions will centre on how to tackle critical 21st century problems, aligning strongly with ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø’s mission of knowledge leadership for a better world,” he said.

“Leading research universities such as ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø and WUSTL play a vital role in working to solve complex global problems, and in fostering the next generation of problem-solvers and leaders to create change internationally and in their local communities,” Professor Høj said.

Key speakers will include Australian Department of Industry, Innovation and Science Secretary and The Boeing Company Chairman, President and CEO .

The theme will examine the challenges of dramatic changes in age distribution across the globe and consider the implications of people living longer.

The theme will consider the future of food production and the need to reduce the agricultural footprint and soil loss.

The fact that three billion people don’t have access to clean cooking fuels and electricity, despite global energy use having grown by more than 200 per cent in the past 50 years, will be considered in the theme, while the theme will focus on unprecedented changes in global health and the shifting burden of health care.

The featured in the symposium are internationally recognised experts in their fields.

The McDonnell International Scholars Academy partners with around the world.

View the symposium program

Media: ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø Global Engagement Deputy Director and Head Dr Jessica Gallagher, j.gallagher@uq.edu.au, 07 3346 7869, 0435 961 173.