How do we transform knowledge and field experience into meaningful, sustainable health impact? On Day 02 of our academic sessions at the School of Public Health, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru, we had the privilege of interacting with Dr. Prashanth N. Srinivas, Director & Senior Fellow, Institute of Public Health (IPH). The session encouraged our BPH and MPH students to look beyond conventional career pathways and recognise the power of connecting research, policy and practice. Key reflections: •? ?Research matters when it responds to real-world needs. •? ?Strong health systems require evidence, leadership and sustained engagement. •? ?Meaningful impact emerges when research informs policy and practice. •? ?The next generation of public health leaders must embrace curiosity, collaboration and interdisciplinary thinking Public health is not merely about understanding problems; it is about translating that understanding into lasting social change. Thank you, Dr. Prashanth N. Srinivas, for an insightful and inspiring interaction with our students.