Global health experts convened at the SEAOHUN 2024 International Conference to discuss the essential interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Hosted in collaboration with the International Society for Animal Hygiene (ISAH) under the theme "One Health in Action," the conference highlighted the need for integrated, policy-level approaches to managing disease outbreaks, with the goal of building a healthier, more resilient world.
Held over two days, the conference brought together over 450 attendees from 48 countries, including academics, healthcare practitioners, researchers, and policymakers. More than 215 research papers were presented, with 164 esteemed speakers covering key topics like antimicrobial resistance, infectious disease prevention, and policy coordination. SEAOHUN’s key message emphasised that a “One Health” approach, recognising the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health, is critical for managing emerging health risks.
Prof. Dirk U. Pfeiffer
Keynote speaker Prof. Dirk U. Pfeiffer from City University of Hong Kong addressed the need for a systems-thinking approach to develop a future-ready workforce equipped with interdisciplinary skills and technological tools. He emphasised that ecosystem health is crucial for human and animal wellbeing, underscoring that “you can’t have healthy humans without healthy ecosystems.” He added that transforming food production is essential for sustainable food security and public health for future generations.
With Southeast Asia identified by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) as a key hotspot for zoonotic diseases, preparing the next generation of health professionals emerged as a focal point. SEAOHUN’s role as a leader in promoting interdisciplinary collaboration was evident, with speakers stressing the importance of resilient health systems in addressing emerging infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and climate-driven health challenges. Dr. Michael L. Tee, Chair of the SEAOHUN 2024 International Conference, acknowledged critical partners such as USAID and Chevron for supporting SEAOHUN’s mission to strengthen the workforce for One Health and advance health security across Southeast Asia.
USAID’s Marilyn Crane echoed this call for collaboration, describing it as essential to tackling pandemics, climate change, and antimicrobial resistance. Dr. Katherine Bond, USAID’s Senior Global Health Security Advisor, highlighted the significance of networks like SEAOHUN in sharing knowledge and innovation, while FAO’s Dr. Asfri Rangkuti advocated for a multidisciplinary approach to address transboundary animal diseases, supporting ASEAN’s Coordinating Centre for Animal Health and Zoonoses (ACCAHZ).
Education and Workforce Initiatives
Country-specific challenges were outlined by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pratap Singhasivanon of SEAMEO TROPMED Network, Thailand, who emphasised the importance of technology-driven innovations such as AI and machine learning for improving disease prediction and public health education. He highlighted the critical need for a well-trained workforce to sustain One Health systems.
Educational initiatives presented at the conference showcased SEAOHUN’s proactive approach. For example, Thailand’s Kasetsart University (KU) launched the One Health Core Competency (OHCC) programme for high school students to inspire interest in careers related to health, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare. In Cambodia, the SEAMEO TED: Developing Teachers for One Health Awareness programme trains vocational and technical teachers to integrate One Health concepts into their lessons, aiming to foster health and sustainability awareness across communities. This initiative engages 120 students, 30 teachers, and 150 community members in health education.
In Southeast Asia, the SEAMEO SEPS: School Well-being and Lunch Improvement Programme has been implemented across six countries, incorporating One Health principles, sustainability, and the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) to create healthier school environments. Additionally, Thailand’s SEAMEO TROPMED Initiative is now in its first phase, with plans for regional expansion to improve public health literacy and support effective responses to health threats.
Conference panellists stressed the need for collaboration among schools, communities, and local governments to make these projects successful, with teachers playing an essential role as facilitators. Community engagement was also recognised as crucial, ensuring that One Health concepts extend beyond classrooms to the wider public.
Future Goals for One Health
As SEAOHUN’s mission moves forward, the organisation aims to expand One Health education and foster interdisciplinary collaboration in response to climate change, pandemic preparedness, and food security. Dr. Ronello Abila of WOAH stressed the importance of transforming the ASEAN One Health Declaration into country-specific initiatives and encouraged the development of a global One Health movement.
SEAOHUN will continue to play an essential role in building a knowledgeable and skilled workforce for One Health across Southeast Asia, strengthening networks and driving the next generation of health security.