P
A
AOHAB celebrates student leadership, shares expertise in global oral health, and signs a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Association of Dental Students
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC — September 2026 — The Alliance for Oral Health Across Borders (AOHAB) participated in the 73rd Annual Congress of the International Association of Dental Students (IADS), held in Prague, Czech Republic, September 2–3, 2026. The Congress, which also celebrated IADS’ 75th anniversary, brought together dental students, educators, and oral health professionals from around the world for scientific exchange, professional development, cultural engagement, and international collaboration.
AOHAB’s participation reflected its commitment to developing the next generation of global oral health leaders and creating opportunities for students and professionals to collaborate across borders, share knowledge, and advance oral health within their communities.
Representing AOHAB were Board members Dr. Tessa Waldhart and Ms. Cathryn Albrecht, along with AOHAB Leadership in Global Oral Health alumnus Aleksander Sobczyk. Together, they contributed to the Congress’s scientific and educational programming through presentations and interactive workshops designed to encourage leadership, collaboration, and community-centered approaches to global oral health.
Dr. Waldhart and Ms. Albrecht introduced participants to AOHAB’s mission, initiatives, and international activities, highlighting the organization’s work in leadership development, education, outreach, and global partnerships. Ms. Albrecht and Aleksander Sobczyk also facilitated an interactive workshop simulating a community response to a sudden earthquake, challenging participants to consider the importance of preparedness, coordination, and collaborative decision-making in responding to public health emergencies.
AOHAB was also honored to feature former FDI World Dental Federation President and AOHAB Board member Dr. Gerhard Seeberger, who addressed the critical importance of clean, accessible water sources to oral and overall health. His presentation reinforced the interconnected nature of oral health, public health, and the environmental and social conditions that influence the well-being of communities worldwide.
A particularly meaningful moment for AOHAB was the participation of two graduates of its 2026 Leadership in Global Oral Health program, Ermias Mihret and Gediyon Mulugeta of Ethiopia. Both presented their research posters during the Congress’s Scientific Poster Presentations, demonstrating how AOHAB’s educational initiatives provide emerging oral health leaders with opportunities to share their work, develop professionally, and engage with an international audience.
A major highlight of the Congress was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between AOHAB and IADS, establishing a framework for ongoing collaboration and future joint initiatives. The agreement represents an important step in connecting AOHAB’s international network of oral health professionals, educators, and mentors with IADS’ global community of dental students.
Through this partnership, both organizations look forward to exploring opportunities that support student leadership, professional development, education, community outreach, and collaborative projects that advance oral health across borders.
“We are all very excited and energized to embark on the mutually beneficial opportunities the MOU provides us going forward,” said Ms. Albrecht.
Reflecting on the Congress, Ms. Albrecht added, “We met many new friends and found it a truly rewarding experience.”
AOHAB extends its sincere appreciation to IADS President Abdullah Munquith Al-Zabaidi, incoming President Ralitsa Androlova, the IADS Executive Committee, and the many attendees and delegates whose warm hospitality and enthusiasm helped make the visit a meaningful experience.
The collaboration underscores a shared belief that investing in students, building international relationships, and creating opportunities for meaningful engagement are essential to advancing oral health worldwide.
As AOHAB continues to expand its global network and strengthen its partnerships, its participation in the 73rd IADS Annual Congress marks another important step in connecting students, educators, and oral health professionals around a common commitment to healthier communities.
Your support makes a world of difference! Help the Alliance for Oral Health Across Borders empower future oral health leaders, expand access to care, and create healthier communities worldwide. Every donation helps us bring oral health to those who need it most.
Donate today and be part of the change!
