Lahore: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Pakistan, in partnership with the College of Tourism and Hotel Management (COTHM), commemorated World One Health Day 2026 with a series of student-led activities. These activities aimed to underline the importance of safeguarding human, animal, and environmental health through shared responsibility and cooperation across various sectors.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the event featured Dr. Pawin Padungtod, the One Health Team Lead at FAO, as the Chief Guest. Dr. Pawin interacted with students and faculty members, emphasizing the crucial role of youth involvement in promoting the One Health concept. The program included an interactive One Health orientation, allowing students to investigate the connections between human, animal, and environmental health. Students also conducted practical demonstrations on food safety and hygiene, addressing issues such as proper handwashing, prevention of cross-contamination, and safe food storage.
World One Health Day, observed annually on November 3, focuses on the interconnectedness of human, animal, plant, and environmental health. In Pakistan, this approach is particularly pertinent in tackling challenges like zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), food safety risks, and environmental degradation, all of which require coordinated action across different sectors.
Students at the event participated in a pet show and creative communication activities, creating 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 proper use of antimicrobials, maintaining food and water hygiene, preventing food waste, and promoting environmental cleanliness.
Dr. Pawin, speaking at the occasion, stressed the significance of involving young people and future professionals in advancing the One Health initiative and encouraged students to act as ambassadors of responsible practices within their institutions, households, and communities.
Through its One Health initiatives in Pakistan, FAO collaborates with government counterparts, academic institutions, and development partners to bolster capacities for the prevention, preparedness, and response to health threats at the human-animal-environment interface. By raising awareness and empowering young people, FAO continues to advocate for a collaborative One Health approach aimed at fostering healthier communities and a safer, more sustainable future.