Centre for International Health (CIH) has been a central hub for global health research and training since its establishment in 1988. Recognized as a leading institution in Norway and beyond, CIH collaborates with partners across all continents, with a particular emphasis on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
From its inception, CIHs vision has been to combine research, education, and capacity building to tackle major health challenges and build equitable, long-term partnerships. Professor Bjarne Bjorvatn was the first academic leader at CIH, bringing extensive experience from the Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), located at the All-Africa Leprosy, Tuberculosis, and Rehabilitation Training Centre (ALERT) (external link) in Ethiopia. AHRI was established in 1970 as an initiative of the University of Bergen. Today AHRI is financed by the Ethiopian Federal Ministry of Health and continues to drive medical discoveries that improve healthcare in Ethiopia and beyond.
CIH remains firmly embedded within the University of Bergen’s academic strategy for global health research and training. Most CIH staff are involved in teaching, supervision, and administration of the Master Program in Global Health. The program has been developed and changed over the years while remaining a steadfast feature since its first establishment in 1992. The program was revised to its current form in 2018. From 2019 to 2023, a total of 97 candidates were awarded their degree of Master in Global Health from this study program. CIH also has a strong commitment to PhD training. At present, the Centre has successfully trained close to 250 PhD candidates from a wide range of disciplines.
CIH’s impact extends beyond academia. CIH graduates and alumni are now leaders in health and research across the globe. They are part of an ever-growing international network that continues to shape policy, improve health systems, and advance knowledge where it matters most.
Looking ahead, CIH aims to maintain its competitive edge, develop new equitable partnerships, and continue engaging in knowledge sharing to shape the future of global health.
