Western Sydney students spent 2 days developing campaigns to address key health issues and presenting them to industry leaders, as part of a 2 day Health Hackathon event at Westmead Hospital.
The Health Hackathon is designed to engage western Sydney's young people to build skills and career opportunities, while focusing on improving population health.
Over 50 students from 7 local high schools participated in the event, including Chifley College Mount Druitt Campus, Colyton, Erskine Park, Model Farms, Patrician Brothers Blacktown, Penola Catholic College and Windsor High Schools.
Western Sydney Local Health District's (WSLHD) Prevention Education and Research Unit (PERU), in collaboration with NSW Health, the Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) program and the NSW Department of Education, co-facilitated the Health Hackathon at Westmead Hospital on Monday 13 November and Tuesday 14 November.
Established in 1995, PERU delivers innovative community and school-based prevention and health leadership programs, while working with western Sydney schools, universities and other organisations.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Prue Car said:
"I am delighted to see the enthusiasm of the school students participating in the program.
"The Health Hackathon gives young people in western Sydney an opportunity to talk about the health issues they are passionate about and how they can make a difference."
Minister for Health Ryan Park said:
"This event at Westmead Hospital is a great example of the relationship between Western Sydney Local Health District and local schools.
"It's fantastic to see our healthcare staff engaging with the next generation to advocate for health and wellbeing.
"The program engages high school students to develop ideas to improve health outcomes."
Member for Parramatta Donna Davis said:
"I want to thank our dedicated staff in western Sydney, who not only work hard in clinical spaces, but also support education programs like the Health Hackathon for Western Sydney communities.
"I am so proud this amazing event is happening right here in our community."
PERU Director, Professor Smita Shah OAM said:
"PERU prioritises evidence-based prevention programs and interventions to improve the health and wellbeing of young people in WSLHD.
"The Health Hackathon is a crucial step in preparing young minds to tackle future health challenges."
