When: June 2025                                              Delegates: 402
Location: University of Limerick                     Economic impact*: €565k
 

Inspiring and Catalysing Health Promotion in Higher Education Across the Globe

Hosted at the University of Limerick, the International Health Promoting Campuses Conference 2025 marked the 10th anniversary of the Okanagan Charter, an international charter for health-promoting universities and colleges.

The conference brought together delegates from higher education, public health, government agencies, student organisations, and wider society to foster collaboration, innovation, and action, while planning the next steps for global health.

The conference's vision was to embed health and wellbeing into the core of campus culture, leadership, and systems, creating inclusive and sustainable environments where students and staff can thrive. Supporting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals of Good Health and Wellbeing, Quality Education, and Reduced Inequalities, the conference promoted international dialogue and policy development, culminating in the launch of the Limerick Framework for Action, a strategic roadmap for integrating health and wellbeing into global education, planning, and public services.

The conference was supported by the University of Limerick Conference and Events team, Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, and Fáilte Ireland. It also received support from the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the Health Service Executive (HSE) as a milestone in advancing health and wellbeing across higher education.

The event welcomed more than 400 delegates from over 24 countries, including representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and the International Union for Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE), fostering global collaboration and knowledge sharing.
 

The International Health Promoting Campuses Conference 2025 has had a lasting impact on both the host destination and the international higher education community.
Some of the key highlights and outcomes include:

Social Impact:

• Demonstrated strong alignment with Ireland's National Healthy Campus Framework, positioning the initiative as a model of best practice in creating health-promoting environments and serving as a national exemplar.
• Influenced national policy and practice through the publication of the Limerick Framework for Action, while also celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Okanagan Charter.
• Enhanced the profile of Limerick and Ireland as leaders in health promotion, contributing to regional development. The University of Limerick's leadership was recognised through the Healthy UL programme.
• Extended its impact beyond the campus through a public awareness campaign, establishing the conference as a landmark event for public engagement, sector innovation, and community collaboration.

Environmental Impact:

• Promoted sustainable campus practices by encouraging delegates to engage with the University of Limerick's Green Campus Initiative and foster a culture of environmental responsibility.
• Explored sustainability and equity in higher education, highlighting the importance of inclusive, whole-system approaches to building greener universities.
• Delivered an environmentally conscious programme featuring guided walking tours, sustainable transport options, and low-waste catering, demonstrating practical steps towards a more sustainable campus experience.

"From the initial vision to the final applause, this journey has been a testament to the power of collaboration, shared purpose, and the unwavering commitment to health and wellbeing in higher education. Together, we created a space for meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collective action. The legacy of this event will continue to shape policy, practice, and partnerships across Ireland and beyond. It was a privilege to welcome delegates from around the world to Limerick, and I am optimistic about the lasting impact this conference will have on our institutions, communities, and future generations." Professor Catherine Norton, Conference Ambassador, IHPC 2025
 

IHPCN is the International Health Promoting Campuses Network, established to advance the principles of the Okanagan Charter by inspiring and supporting health promotion in higher education worldwide. Through international and regional networks, conferences, and collaborative initiatives, IHPCN works to embed health and wellbeing into campus culture.

*Economic Value is estimated based on number of international delegates in attendance