RETS is back: Let’s celebrate 30 years of history and build the Network’s next steps! [1]

After a pause in its communication channels, the International Network of Health Technicians Education (RETS) is resuming its communication activities and preparing a special programme to celebrate its 30th anniversary.

The interruption was necessary to comply with the restrictions imposed during Brazil’s electoral silence period, which, during the 2026 General Elections, was in effect from 4 July to 25 October. Established by Law No. 9,504/1997 and regulated by the Electoral Court, these restrictions include limitations on institutional advertising by public bodies and entities, with the aim of ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates. As the RETS Executive Secretariat is based at the Joaquim Venâncio Polytechnic School of Health (EPSJV/Fiocruz), a Brazilian federal public institution, it was necessary to temporarily suspend publications on the Network’s website and social media channels.

The electoral period ended with the second round of voting on 25 October, which confirmed the re-election of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) as President of the Republic, with 51.79% of valid votes, against 48.21% obtained by Flávio Bolsonaro (PL), according to data released by Brazil’s Superior Electoral Court (TSE).

RETS at 30: a history built through networking

In 2026, RETS celebrates three decades of work in support of international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and the strengthening of education and work for health technicians. To mark this milestone, the Executive Secretariat is preparing a special celebration that will bring together members, partners, and people who have contributed to building and strengthening the Network over the years.

Everyone is invited to save 23 November for this celebration, which will take place online!

The programme aims to revisit RETS’s collective memory and highlight the importance of networking in addressing contemporary challenges in public health and professional education. After all, it is the people, institutions, and partnerships that give meaning to the Network’s existence and keep its purpose alive.

The celebrations will continue on 24 November with the RETS General Meeting, which is restricted to Network members and will also take place entirely online.

The main items on the agenda include updating the RETS Regulations and reviewing its Communication Policy.

The aim is to adapt these instruments to the changes the Network has undergone in recent years, taking into account its expanded scope, the consolidation of its sub-networks, and new opportunities for collaboration among institutions and countries.

Moving forward together!

RETS is back and beginning a new chapter in its journey, marked by the celebration of its achievements and preparations for the next steps. In the coming weeks, the Network’s website and communication channels will once again share news, initiatives, and information about activities carried out during the period when publications were suspended.

The Executive Secretariat invites all members and partners to follow upcoming announcements, take part in the celebrations, and contribute to shaping the Network’s future.

Thirty years of history, cooperation, and commitment to education and the work of health technicians. And we want to keep building this story with you!