On October 31, 2024, the School of Public Health of the University of Hong Kong (HKU SPH) hosted a distinguished lecture titled "Survival of the City: Living and Thriving in an Era of Pandemic Disease" by Professor David M. Cutler, Otto Eckstein Professor of Applied Economics at Harvard University. The lecture took place at the HKU medical campus and saw an in-person participation of over 50 attendees.

The event commenced with opening remarks from Professor David Bishai, Director and Clinical Professor of HKU SPH, followed by an introduction of the speaker by Professor Karen Grépin, Associate Professor of HKU SPH. Professor Cutler then explored how cities can adapt and thrive amidst pandemic diseases, drawing on his extensive research in health economics and public policy. His insights provided valuable perspectives on urban resilience and public health strategies.

The Q&A session was engaging with insightful questions from the participants. It was a great opportunity for the participants to better understand the challenges and solutions related to urban living in the context of pandemics.

To watch Professor David Cutler’s distinguished lecture, please click here.