ABSTRACT:
Tropical and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) remain major drivers of preventable morbidity and inequity, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. China–Africa collaboration has generated valuable experience in disease control, surveillance, and implementation at scale, while African countries continue to advance locally led programmes amid evolving epidemiological, health-system, and financing challenges. At the same time, a growing generation of young researchers and practitioners is contributing to innovation, field implementation, and cross-border partnerships. Yet their roles in agenda-setting and governance often remain limited. This interactive youth session, co-hosted by Young WFPHA and NIPD, China CDC, will convene young public health professionals attending the Congress to share evidence, leadership lessons, and practical pathways for translating research into programme and policy impact in tropical disease and NTD control. The session will feature six youth keynote talks (8 minutes each)—three from China and three from Africa—covering complementary themes such as: China’s experience and adaptable tools for elimination; surveillance and response innovations (including digital and field-based approaches); community engagement and equity; African progress and remaining gaps; and partnership models that strengthen local capacity and sustainability. Senior public health leaders will serve as discussants to synthesize key messages, link them to regional and global priorities, and guide a structured dialogue with participants. A key output will be a draft “China–Africa Youth Declaration on Tropical Diseases and NTDs,” developed through live co-creation and finalized after the Congress for wider dissemination through partner networks. Draft 150-minute Agenda 0:00–0:10: Welcome, aims, and participant poll 0:10–0:58: Six youth talks (6 × 8 minutes) 0:58–1:18: Senior leaders’ discussion and reflections 1:18–1:45: Moderated audience dialogue (guided questions + Q&A) 1:45–2:10: Co-creation workshop: key commitments for the Declaration 2:10–2:30: Next steps