What is a WHO collaborating centre?

A World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre is an institution that forms part of an international collaborative network carrying out activities in support of the the World Health Organization (WHO)’s programme at all levels. WHO Collaborating Centres are hosted at research institutes, universities, hospitals and are designated by the WHO Director-General. 

WHO often requires expert advice and engages in scientific or technical cooperation with other institutions. WHO CCs cooperate with WHO on a diverse range of activities such as collecting data for a report, organising a meeting or developing a guideline. The collaboration brings benefits to both parties. WHO gains access to top institutions worldwide and the institutional capacity to support its work. Similarly, institutions designated as WHO CC gain increased visibility and recognition by national authorities, and greater attention from the public for the health issues on which they work. The WHO CC network forms an international collaborative thematic groups in support of WHO programme at the country, intercountry, regional, interregional and global levels.

Link to information about the WHO Collaborating Centres