Each year on 7 April, the world celebrates World Health Day, a moment to reflect on global health challenges and the role of science in improving well-being. At St John, we see this day as an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to quality care, community service, and the application of scientific knowledge across all our programmes, including First Aid training and emergency response.
The 2026 theme, “Together for Health. Stand with Science,” resonates deeply with our mission, values, and the ways we serve communities worldwide. It reflects our commitment to being open to new approaches, transparent in our practices, and continually improving our impact.
Michel C. Doré, PhD, Sub Prior, reflects:
As an international family of charities responding to first aid and community healthcare needs, St John celebrates World Health Day. This year’s theme invites us to join in the global efforts to promote health around the world and stand with science. Such a theme aligns perfectly with our organisation, our mission, and our values.
Our commitment to excellence drives a proactive engagement with science. Our services and training programs, including First Aid courses, follow best practices and are carefully designed to deliver effective care and build trust in the communities we serve. Beyond clinical care, we apply scientific principles in education, training, management, and governance, continuously seeking better ways to serve people and strengthen our operations.
The science on a wide array of hazards including climate change helps us understand community vulnerabilities and ways to improve resilience. Health and social sciences reveal trends in health determinants, while engineering develops technologies that increase our capacity to make a difference.
We pursue collaboration with research teams around the world to make communities safer and healthier. Our presence locally makes us valuable partners in numerous scientific projects.
Many St John members are personally engaged with science. From volunteers and staff pursuing studies to specialists conducting research, members exemplify curiosity, engagement, and a commitment to improving services, including the delivery of First Aid.
We must remain vigilant about the information we consume. While technology can expand access to knowledge, it can also spread misinformation. Each of us has a role in restoring and maintaining trust in scientific and public health institutions that save lives worldwide.
Standing with science strengthens our ability to serve and reinforces the trust people place in St John. Our commitment to quality care ensures meaningful impact and supports a culture of learning.
Join the global conversation through #StandWithScience and #WorldHealthDay.
