Zaher Azar was a participant in the 2017 Public Health Study Tour from the University of South Australia.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake the ACICIS program?
To try a new experience and increase my knowledge on public health.
Q: What did you find to be the most challenging about your experience on the PHST?
I did not find any major challenges in this tour as all staff were really helpful and student got along together very well.
Q: What public health issues in Indonesia have you become more interested in/aware of as a result of this tour?
Indonesia is a country with a population of 250 million. Managing health of such a huge population and providing services requires a significant effort. Also, due to a variety of different ethnics, religions and cultures providing health education and information is challenging.
Q: What was your favourite field trip?
Code village was the best field trip. It was next to the city centre but the health situation was extremely poor. I could clearly see the big gap between poor and rich in Indonesia.
Q: How do you think the Public Health Study Tour will influence your future careers or studies?
I have learned so many new things from students with different background, local students, lectures and from all local people in general. I have felt those health challenges and will try to consider them when I work in the health sector in the future.
Q: What did you most enjoy about the seminar series?
In the seminars I met many local lectures who provided different styles of teaching. They were proud of their countries and talked about Indonesia with passion.
Q: What was your favourite aspect of visiting Indonesia?
Learning about Indonesian culture and trying beautiful authentic Indonesian food.