Global Health Program Annual Report 2021

2021: A Period of
Challenge and Change
Associate Dean of Global Health and Director of Research and
Development at Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (DMIMS),
Sawangi Meghe, Wardha, India
Syed Zahiruddin Quazi, MD, PhD
As we welcomed 2021, India experienced a decline of COVID-19 cases to 20,000 during January and
February. The pandemic scenario at that time was not new to us, as we were used to lockdown,
quarantine, vaccine sanitizers, etc. A rural town like Wardha (Sawangi) too witnessed less reporting of
new cases in the initial days of the year. However, the delta genotype brought a tremendous burden
on Indian states along with loss, pain, and impairment of the healthcare system. The last year taught
us how we should work, focus on people and their well-being, and support the inclusion of changes for
the betterment of society. As an academic and research institute, we strived to orient our research and
education contents like seminars and webinars to provide insight and practical guidance through the
tough pandemic time. We also considered broad-spectrum changes that the second wave would bring
for students, faculty and the broader world of work.
Further, we were constantly charging into the future. Technological advancements continued to disrupt
our society for its betterment. By tailoring communications with patients using electronic technologies,
we achieved much of our goals virtually, unearthing new ways and directions to solve unmet clinical
needs. We also learned to set and balance our priorities with health as the primary while finding new
solutions. 2021 was a period of challenge and change. Every phase of the previous year taught us a
lesson we can reflect on to achieve great success in the coming future.
Although we do not have any insights into the future events this year, we all are well-aware that the
coming days and months will bring new challenges and opportunities. We should be prepared to face
these challenges and keep trying to build on our reflections and the wisdom we have achieved. We must
also develop a strategic plan to adapt people management practices which will help us explore future
trends and create a positive environment in and around our workplaces.
14 UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT LARNER COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND NUVANCE HEALTH