PAHO/WHO Administrator Alejandro Caballero, PAHO/WHO Representative Suriname Dr. Noreen Jack, Minister of Health Suriname Dr. Amar Ramadhin, and Director of Health, Ministry of Health Dr. Rakesh Gajadhar Sukul
Suriname, July 14, 2023 (PAHO/WHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Suriname Country Office is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Noreen Jack as the PAHO/WHO Representative a.i. in Suriname for the upcoming months. Dr. Jack brings a wealth of experience and expertise in public health, making her a valuable asset to the country and the organization.
Dr. Jack officially met with Suriname's Health Minister, Dr. Amar Ramadhin for the first time, in order to establish a strong foundation for collaboration and coordination. Also present were PAHO/WHO Administrator Alejandro Caballero and Director of Health, Ministry of Health Dr. Rakesh Gajadhar Sukul. The primary purpose of this meeting was to facilitate introductions and discuss the ongoing work that has been conducted thus far. It also served as an opportunity to strategize and plan for the upcoming months, ensuring the implementation of effective public health initiatives and programs.
During the meeting, both Dr. Jack and Minister Ramadhin highlighted the importance of a collaborative approach in tackling health challenges and improving the overall well-being of Suriname's population. They recognized the need for joint efforts between the Ministry of Health and PAHO/WHO to strengthen the health system, enhance health services, and address key health issues in the country.
Dr. Jack expressed her commitment to working closely with the Surinamese government, local health authorities, and various stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the current 2-year plan with the Ministry. She emphasized the significance of building strong partnerships, engaging with communities, and leveraging available resources to achieve sustainable health outcomes.
"We had fruitful conversations on various issues in the health sector as well as the health sector reform, NCDs, mental health, HIV, and malaria. And I must say I am impressed with the progress of malaria elimination and look forward to continuing working in that area as well." - Dr. Noreen Jack
Minister Ramadhin extended a warm welcome to Dr. Jack and conveyed his confidence in her leadership and expertise, given her impressive career as a highly experienced public health expert in the Caribbean region. He further expressed his appreciation for PAHO/WHO's continued support and reaffirmed the government's commitment to collaborate closely with PAHO/WHO.
"We made a request for to discuss the prompt implementation of the Country Cooperation Strategy 2023-2025 between PAHO and the Ministry of Health. In order to outline key priorities for the upcoming period. In the coming period, we will have more discussion moments between PAHO and MoH to establish agreements with the technical groups.” - Dr. Amar Ramadhin
As the ad interim PAHO/WHO Representative in Suriname, Dr. Jack will play a pivotal role in guiding and coordinating efforts aimed at improving the health and well-being of Suriname's population. Her extensive knowledge and experience in public health will contribute significantly to advancing health outcomes, strengthening health systems, and addressing emerging health challenges in the country.
