The world today faces interconnected global threats, ranging from pandemics and food insecurity to climate change, all of which exacerbate cross-species transmission of disease. An estimated 75 percent of infectious disease threats are zoonotic, posing serious impacts on humans, animals, and the environment. This situation calls for greater competence, communication, and collaboration between veterinarians and medical doctors in implementing policies grounded in the One Health approach.
This was conveyed by Professor Jenny-Ann, a researcher from the University of Sydney, Australia, during the International Conference on Advanced Veterinary Science and Technologies for Sustainable Development (3rd ICAVESS 2025), held at the Gadjah Mada University Club Hotel on Friday (Nov. 7).
Professor Jenny-Ann explained that the One Health concept has deep historical roots dating back to medical thought from the 5th century BC to the present. She further emphasized four key pillars of One Health: communication, coordination, capacity building, and collaboration.
She highlighted the importance of both technical and non-technical competencies for veterinary professionals in addressing these global challenges. Technical competencies, she explained, include epidemiological skills, surveillance, and rapid response to disease.
Meanwhile, non-technical competencies encompass leadership, communication, advocacy, and community engagement. She noted that both sets of skills are mutually reinforcing in ensuring an effective One Health approach.
“There are two types of competencies, technical and non-technical, and both are essential to translate scientific knowledge into One Health action,” she stated.
In addition, she underscored the need for sustainable pathways to strengthen One Health capacity without relying on external funding.
She believes that the future of One Health in Asia depends on collaboration among universities, government institutions, and communities to develop resilient, knowledgeable, and solutions-oriented professionals.
“The future of One Health relies on how collaborative cooperation, vision, and governance are integrated,” she concluded.
Meanwhile, Dr. Hugo Federico, a representative of the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), emphasized the importance of strengthening veterinary capacity in the Asia-Pacific region.
He stated that WOAH is committed to enhancing the network of veterinary education institutions through training programs and learning modules, particularly in the areas of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and disaster preparedness.
“We need to strengthen regional networks, share knowledge, and build a more resilient future for veterinary education and services in Asia,” he noted.
President of the Southeast Asian Veterinary Schools Association (SEAVSA), Dr. Khongsak Thiangtum, also expressed appreciation for UGM’s continued academic leadership and regional collaboration, particularly in Southeast Asia.
He noted that cooperation among veterinary schools in the region is key to addressing global health challenges.
“We believe that collaboration among various stakeholders is crucial for strengthening veterinary education today,” he said.
UGM Vice-Rector for Education and Teaching, Professor Wening Udasmoro, expressed her appreciation for the conference, which brought together prominent figures from academia, industry, and government.
She further emphasized that the spirit of One Health is fundamental to building a healthy and sustainable future for humans, animals, and the environment.
“Through collaboration among experts, educators, and researchers from diverse backgrounds, we can create pathways toward sustainable development,” she said.
Dean of the UGM Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FKH UGM), Professor Teguh Budipitojo, affirmed FKH UGM’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation to advance veterinary science.
“We hope this forum will become a significant step forward in fostering innovation and collaboration for the future of veterinary science on the global stage,” he stated.
For information, this international conference was organized by FKH UGM in collaboration with the Asian Association of Veterinary Schools (AAVS), the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), and the Southeast Asia Veterinary Schools Association (SEAVSA).
The event served as a platform for collaboration among various international organizations to promote scientific innovation, food security, and sustainable human and animal welfare.
Author: Cyntia Noviana
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Salma
Illustration: Freepik