Strengthening Ethical Research Practices: CBMH FK-KMK UGM Hosts HELP Course on Medical and Health Research

Yogyakarta — The Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada (CBMH FK-KMK UGM), organized the HELP Training Program (Humanity–Ethics–Legal–Professionalism) under the theme “3rd Series – Medical/Health Research” from 23–25 August 2023. Held at The Atrium Hotel and Resort, the program was attended by participants from various cities across Indonesia, reflecting strong national interest in ethical issues surrounding health and medical research.

Over the course of three days, participants received comprehensive learning materials on research ethics delivered by distinguished speakers in the field of bioethics. Key topics included Introduction to Research Ethics, Basic Principles of Biomedical Ethics, Informed Consent in Research, Addressing Ethical Challenges in Health-Related Research, Applying Research Ethics in Practical Scenarios, International Guidelines, and Special Issues in Health-Related Research. These sessions equipped participants with both theoretical foundations and practical insights to navigate ethical complexities in research practice.

The HELP Course also emphasized the importance of ethical governance in research as a cornerstone of responsible scientific advancement. By strengthening participants’ understanding of ethical principles, regulatory frameworks, and international standards, the program aimed to promote research practices that prioritize human dignity, participant safety, and social accountability.

This initiative aligns closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, which underscores the role of ethical research in improving health outcomes, and SDG 4: Quality Education, through capacity building and lifelong learning for researchers and healthcare professionals. Furthermore, the focus on research ethics supports SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, by reinforcing ethical standards, transparency, and accountability in scientific and health-related research.

Through the implementation of the HELP Course Series on Medical and Health Research, CBMH FK-KMK UGM reaffirmed its commitment to advancing ethically responsible research and fostering a culture of integrity within Indonesia’s healthcare and academic communities.