UTILIZING THE POWER OF PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT IN PARASITOLOGY: A RETROSPECTIVE.

Public engagement is an essential component of modern scientific practice, promoting transparency, mutual learning, and trust between researchers and society. This article explores the importance of public engagement in science, with a particular focus on the field of parasitology. Drawing on the experiences of the Glasgow Centre for Parasitology (formally the Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology at the University of Glasgow), this retrospective illustrates the diverse methods used to connect scientists with audiences ranging from schoolchildren to communities directly affected by parasitic diseases. Through creative and collaborative approaches, the Centre has sought to demystify research, stimulate curiosity, and foster 2-way communication between the public and researchers. In doing so, the Centre has demonstrated how meaningful engagement can both enhance scientific literacy and strengthen public understanding of and participation in global health research.