An internationally recognized leader in global maternal and child health and education initiatives.
Dr. Shafi Bhuiyan, PhD, MBBS, MPH, MBA, is a globally recognized public health and education leader with extensive experience in developed and developing countries. He is an Associate Professor at the University of Memphis School of Public Health and an associate professor (status faculty) at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto (UofT). Dr. Bhuiyan co-created the MScCH program for internationally trained professionals (ITPs) and co-founded the Bridge Training/CPH Certificate Program for internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs) in Toronto.
He also holds adjunct positions at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) and Bangladesh University of Health Sciences. Previously, he was a Senior Health Research Manager for Ontario’s Ministry of Health-funded projects. He led maternal and child health initiatives in Bangladesh, including developing the Maternal Child Health Handbook program.
Dr. Bhuiyan earned his medical degree from Dhaka, an MPH from Mahidol University, a PhD in Global Human Sciences from Osaka University, and an MBA in Global Healthcare Management from TMU. He has received several accolades, including the Lions International President’s Leadership Award and the RBC Top 75 Canadian Immigrants Award. Dr. Bhuiyan has served on numerous boards of directors and chairs, including the Canadian Coalition for Global Health Research and the Council of Agencies Serving South Asians, and chaired the 13th International MCH Handbook Conference at UofT.
A Teacher with a Volunteer Spirit
Dr. Shafi Bhuiyan, PhD, MBBS, MPH, MBA, stands as a remarkable example of a teacher driven by a volunteer spirit and a profound commitment to community health. His journey began in Bangladesh, where he graduated with an MBBS from SSMC Medical College in Dhaka. Recognizing the critical healthcare needs in rural areas, Dr. Bhuiyan transitioned from clinical practice as an anesthesiologist to community health. His experiences as a war survivor during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 deeply influenced his resolve to build equitable healthcare systems.
As the founding liaison of a maternal and child health research and training institute, Dr. Bhuiyan worked tirelessly to bridge knowledge gaps, empowering healthcare professionals to serve vulnerable populations. He strongly believes that true healthcare transformation begins with education, ensuring families are equipped with the tools to make informed decisions about their health. His unwavering dedication to uplifting underserved communities continues to inspire his global health initiatives.
A Visionary Global Health Leader for a Healthier Future
Driven by the belief that education is the cornerstone of a robust healthcare system, Dr. Bhuiyan pursued a master’s degree in Urban Health at Mahidol University in Thailand and later earned his PhD in International Health from Osaka University, Japan. His work highlights the role of women in health systems and the critical need for their empowerment. “Neglecting half the population undermines the entire structure,” he argues, emphasizing that inclusive healthcare benefits all.
Currently at the University of Memphis School of Public Health, Tennessee, Dr. Bhuiyan tackles pressing issues such as high maternal mortality rates. His efforts focus on educating families and building community-driven solutions that contribute to healthier societies and economic development. A staunch advocate for knowledge sharing, Dr. Bhuiyan collaborates with international partners to ensure no community is left behind in the pursuit of health equity.
A Passionate Builder and Collaborator for Systemic Change
Dr. Bhuiyan’s impact extends beyond academia. He co-founded the Internationally Trained Physicians Clinical Public Health Certificates Program at the University of Toronto (UofT), addressing systemic barriers faced by immigrant healthcare professionals in Canada. Recognizing that over 95% of internationally trained doctors and nurses struggle to secure licensure, he designed programs to integrate these skilled professionals into the healthcare workforce.
Despite budgetary challenges leading to program closures, Dr. Bhuiyan’s determination saw the launch of a new cohort in 2023. His vision includes fostering ethical leadership and cultural competence among healthcare professionals to bridge disparities in care. Collaborations with the Medical Council of Canada have yielded initiatives such as clinical assistant roles and expanded residency opportunities for internationally trained professionals.
Dr. Bhuiyan’s work underscores the need for systemic change in human resource planning and decision-making processes to include immigrant professionals. By advocating for ongoing education and creating supportive pathways, he envisions a healthcare system that is not only inclusive but also strengthens societal and economic well-being.
