13th Ida S. Scudder Humanitarian Oration 2024 : Dr. Soumya Swaminathan

Christian Medical College Vellore and the United States based Vellore CMC Foundation partnered to establish the Dr. Ida S. Scudder Humanitarian Oration in 2011. The oration seeks to perpetuate the legacy of Dr. Ida Scudder by honouring exceptional individuals who exemplify her compassion, integrity and character. These extraordinary individuals, from different walks of life, inspire others to emulate her dedication to the service of humanity. Previous awardees include Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Mrs. Sudha Murty and Mr. Azim Premji. This year, the Dr. Ida S. Scudder Humanitarian Oration is awarded to Dr. Soumya Swaminathan.
Dr. Swaminathan is a paediatrician and global expert in tuberculosis and HIV research, who served as WHO's first Chief Scientist from 2019 to 2022 - the years of the COVID19 pandemic. With over 40 years of experience in clinical care and research, Dr. Swaminathan has dedicated her career to translating research into impactful health programs. As Secretary to the Government of India for Health Research, her efforts were focused on integrating science into health policy-making, enhancing research capabilities in Indian medical institutions, and fostering global partnerships in health sciences.
During her tenure as the WHO Chief Scientist, Dr. Swaminathan established the Science Division focusing on research, quality assurance of norms and standards, and digital health. She played a pivotal role in co-ordinating global scientific efforts and was instrumental in setting up Covax to ensure equitable vaccine distribution to Low and Middle-Income Countries during the COVID-19 pandemic.
She assumed the role of Chairperson at the M S Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) in February 2023. She is also the Principal Advisor to National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.