News Release: Premier Mike Rann, Minister for Economic Development, Minister for Social Inclusion, Minister for the ArtsMinister for Sustainability and Climate Change:
NEW ADELAIDE THINKER IN RESIDENCE - ILONA KICKBUSCH
Premier Mike Rann today announced health expert, Professor Ilona Kickbusch PhD will be an Adelaide Thinker in Residence next year.
Professor Kickbusch is an independent health consultant known throughout the world for her contribution to innovation in public health, health promotion and global health.
Based in Switzerland, she is currently adviser to the Swiss federal government and the World Economic Forum.
“Professor Kickbusch has had a long and distinguished career advising on policies and strategies to promote health at the national and international level, and comes to us with the highest of credentials. I am delighted that she has agreed to join us in Adelaide as a Thinker in Residence,” Mr Rann said.
“From the World Heath Organisation to Yale University, the Swiss Federal Government and the World Economic Forum, Ilona has influenced current directions and innovations in health governance, public health and health promotion, and has received numerous honours and awards for her achievements.
“Professor Kickbusch’s residency will help South Australia formulate new approaches to health, wellbeing and health governance, recognising that health is a central goal of our society.
“Specifically, Ilona’s professional interests are particularly well-aligned with South Australia’s strategy for improving wellbeing, growing prosperity and expanding opportunities. South Australia’s Strategic Plan has a focus on prevention and on healthier, fitter and safer individuals and communities.”
Professor Kickbusch was the initiator of the World Health Organisation’s ‘Healthy Cities’ project and oversaw the planning of other worldwide initiatives such as World Health Days and the World Health Reports.
She has published and lectured widely on the new public health and is a member of many professional organisations, editorial boards and advisory groups.
Professor Kickbusch will live and work in Adelaide as a Thinker in Residence in two phases - February to March and October to November 2007.