DNA
Lahore, 4 Nov: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Pakistan, in collaboration with the College of Tourism and Hotel Management (COTHM), marked World One Health Day 2026 through a series of interactive, student-led activities, highlighting the importance of protecting human, animal and environmental health through collective responsibility and cross-sectoral collaboration.
Dr. Pawin Padungtod, One Health Team Lead, FAO attended the event as the Chief Guest, engaging with students and faculty members and highlighting the importance of youth participation in promoting the One Health approach. The programme featured an interactive One Health orientation, enabling students to explore the links between human, animal and environmental health. Through practical demonstrations, students also highlighted food safety and hygiene, including proper handwashing, prevention of cross-contamination and safe food storage.
Observed annually on 3 November, World One Health Day highlights the interconnectedness of human, animal, plant and environmental health. In Pakistan, the approach is particularly relevant in addressing challenges such as zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), food safety risks and environmental degradation, which require coordinated action across sectors.
Students also participated in a pet show, creative communication activities, producing short video messages on everyday actions that can protect people, animals and the environment. Through a One Health Campus Commitment Wall, they pledged to adopt responsible practices, including the appropriate use of antimicrobials, maintaining food and water hygiene, preventing food waste and promoting environmental cleanliness.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Pawin emphasized the importance of engaging young people and future professionals in advancing One Health, encouraging students to become ambassadors of responsible practices within their institutions, households and communities.
Through its One Health initiatives in Pakistan, FAO works with government counterparts, academic institutions and development partners to strengthen capacities for the prevention, preparedness and response to health threats at the human-animal-environment interface. By promoting awareness and empowering young people, FAO continues to support a collaborative One Health approach for healthier communities and a safer, more sustainable future.
