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By Lusha Ayu Astari, MPH and Team   Editor: Anti Rismayanti, SEAOHUN Regional Program Manager   Taking part in the SEAOHUN One Health Research and Training (OHRT) Awards Program has provided an eye-opening experience for our team. Our project aimed at enhancing Bantul District’s response to leptospirosis, a recurring zoonotic disease impacting human, animal, and environmental health. By understanding the dynamics of government sector collaboration, we aimed to address the real-world challenges in operationalizing the One Health approach.  Implementation Experience  Our journey began with outreach to district agencies, initiating essential conversations and building cross-sectoral support. Early dialogues allowed us to map critical stakeholders, their roles, and their willingness for collaborative efforts. Subsequently, we conducted stakeholder mapping, policy reviews, and an insightful online survey targeting various sectors—public health, animal health, environmental management, and disaster response. This survey was more than data collection; it fostered reflection on interconnected roles within the One Health framework.  One key achievement was developing the Stakeholder Influence–Interest Matrix. It revealed the nuanced dynamics between sectors, notably highlighting the proactive engagement of the Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), despite its limited formal authority compared to the influential District Health Office (DHO) and Animal Health Office (DAHO). This insight underscored the importance of enthusiasm and willingness beyond hierarchical structures.  Figure 1. The matrix shows DAHO and DHO as influential and engaged. BPBD showed high interest but had limited decision-making power. DLH and BPPD scored lower on both fronts. Enhancement of One Health Knowledge and Skills The project's execution significantly strengthened our team’s knowledge and skills across the One Health spectrum. Team members acquired enhanced competencies in zoonotic disease management, stakeholder engagement, policy analysis, and communication across sectors. Additionally, soft skills in negotiation, adaptation to different organizational cultures, and navigating complex political scenarios were notably developed. The interactive and collaborative nature of the workshops—combining government officials and community voices—enabled meaningful exchanges and practical understanding of integrated health approaches. These experiences have proven indispensable in grasping the realities of cross-sector collaboration, particularly under uncertain political climates and structural transitions. Figure 2. Multisectoral coordination in action and public campaigns media Source: Radar Jogja    Improving One Health Education and Practice For faculty members involved in our team, the insights and practical knowledge gained have begun shaping curricula and teaching strategies at Universitas Gadjah Mada. Real-world experiences from this project serve as vivid case studies in classrooms, providing students a realistic view of how One Health is operationalized beyond theoretical frameworks. For health professionals within district agencies, these experiences deepen their appreciation of cross-sectoral collaboration, reinforcing their roles as champions of integrated zoonotic disease management. Institutionalizing collaborative practices into regular operations, including joint surveillance, resource-sharing, and unified communication strategies, represents tangible progress toward sustainable One Health implementation. Anticipated Impact on Target Groups Looking forward, we anticipate significant positive impacts on both community and institutional levels. Short-term goals include heightened awareness and improved local responsiveness to leptospirosis outbreaks, driven by integrated planning and coordinated multisectoral actions. Over the next six months, ongoing advocacy and dissemination of project findings aim to reinforce institutional commitments, particularly under the newly established district administration. We envision strengthened capacities in district health systems, broader community empowerment through education and preventive behaviors, and potential partnerships with private sectors to support rodent control and sustainable practices. Contributing to the Advancement of One Health This project significantly contributes to Indonesia's One Health advancement by establishing a clear, replicable model of interdisciplinary collaboration and integrated disease management at the district level. By embedding structured coordination mechanisms into local governance, Bantul District becomes a reference point for other regions confronting similar zoonotic challenges. The conceptual framework and operational model developed during the project align seamlessly with national policies, offering an adaptable blueprint that reinforces national preparedness and response capabilities. Insights and Lessons Learned Several critical insights emerged from our experience: Local context matters: One Health approaches must always account for specific local realities; what works in one setting may not apply universally. Relationships are foundational: Effective collaboration depends less on hierarchical authority and more on building trust and shared goals. Patience and flexibility: Political transitions and administrative complexities can slow processes, highlighting the need for patience and adaptive strategies. Conclusion The SEAOHUN OHRT Awards Program experience underscored the essence of One Health—not merely as a conceptual guideline but as a lived, dynamic practice centered on collaboration, trust, and sustained engagement. While challenges remain, our project’s impacts in Bantul District provide a hopeful pathway for robust multisectoral responses, ensuring healthier communities and resilient health systems. Project Leader: Lusha Ayu Astari, MPH, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FMHPN-UGM)  Team Members: Haniena Diva, BPH, MPH., Epidemiologist, Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) Antwerp & CIPDM, data analyst  Novra A. Sandi, DVM, MPH., Researcher, CIPDM, One Health consultant  Indra Dwi Octa Yuwanto, BPH., Health Promotion Officer, Jetis 1 Primary Health Care, field officer

A new chapter in One Health education was written on April 30, 2025, at the National University – MOA, where public health leaders, academics, and advocates gathered to celebrate the launch of the Philippines' LAWA Model Guidebook—a milestone that bridges science, community, and sustainability.   This achievement was made possible through funding support from Chevron, in collaboration with the Southeast Asia One Health University Network (SEAOHUN), Tropical Disease Research Center (TDRC)–Khon Kaen University, National University (Philippines), Polytechnic University of the Philippines, New Era University, and the Philippine One Health University Network (PhilOHUN).   LAWA—short for Leptospirosis Awareness Warning and Action—is more than a public health model; it’s a community-led movement grounded in the One Health framework, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Originally developed in Thailand by TDRC-KKU, the LAWA model addresses pressing waterborne and zoonotic diseases such as liver fluke infection and leptospirosis through a localized, practical approach. With Chevron’s generous support and SEAOHUN’s regional coordination, the LAWA PH team adapted the guidebook to the Filipino context—demonstrating how international partnerships can create tangible local impact. “The launch of the LAWA Guidebook reflects our shared vision of building healthier communities through education, research, and multisectoral collaboration,” said Dr. Tongkorn Meeyam , Executive Director of SEAOHUN.   The launch was enriched by messages from institutional partners and advocates, including representatives from National University, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, and New Era University. Their remarks underscored academia’s essential role in strengthening community resilience and public health capacity.   A highlight of the event was the keynote address by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sirikachorn Tangkawattana, co-founder of the LAWA Model from Khon Kaen University , who recounted the model’s success in Thailand and emphasized the importance of government engagement, strong communication strategies, and long-term vision in sustainably eliminating liver fluke disease.   The Philippine adaptation of the LAWA guidebook was formally introduced by Ms. Khristine L. Sandoval of National University, who shared insights from her participation in the LAWA Model Online Course delivered by TDRC-KKU in 2023. Together with her team—Mr. Ryan V. Labana (PUP), Ms. Kristel Joy S. Cada (NEU), Mr. Jose Marie T. Taller, Mr. Rodel Victor D. Dimasin, and Ms. Diosa Marie M. Marundan —she presented the guidebook and explored its potential to enhance One Health education across the country.   From policy alignment to grassroots implementation, the LAWA Guidebook stands out as a practical and scalable tool for addressing zoonotic health threats in Southeast Asia. The event culminated in a roundtable discussion and forum on “The Future of One Health,” featuring thought leaders such as Dr. Melbourne Talactac (Cavite State University), Dr. Neil Tanquilut (Pampanga State Agricultural University), and Dr. Michael Tee (UP Manila). The panelists called for greater academic leadership and innovation to shape a future-ready public health workforce. As the event closed, a sense of momentum filled the room. The LAWA Guidebook is more than a publication—it’s a symbol of collective action, co-creation, and a shared future where One Health education equips communities to face emerging challenges with confidence.

Empowering Youth with Knowledge on the One Health Approach On 2nd May 2025, the Foundation Day of the Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar (IIPHG), India’s first ever Summer One Health School Program, has been launched to foster youth leadership in One Health. This first-of-its-kind initiative is a joint effort by the One Health Network of India (OHNI) & the Centre for One Health, Education, Research, and Development (COHERD) at the IIPHG, with unwavering support from Chevron and Southeast Asia One Health University Network (SEAOHUN). The program was launched in the esteemed presence of Chief Guest, Shri S. J. Haider, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Energy and Petrochemicals Department, Government of Gujarat, and Prof (Dr) Sanjay Zodpey, President Public Health Foundation of India, who appreciated the institute’s efforts in promoting transdisciplinary learning and empowering future public health leaders. This innovative program aims to promote awareness of the One Health approach, which recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Through this initiative, 50 students from 10 academic institutions across human health, veterinary science, agriculture, and environmental science sectors will be trained as One Health Ambassadors. These ambassadors are expected to share their knowledge and promote One Health awareness among peers within their institutions and communities, potentially reaching up to 2,500 individuals. “With this unique program, we aim to build the future generation of One Health deeply rooted in the school and university education across the disciplines”, said Dr. Sandul Yasobant, Program Lead and Assistant Professor at IIPHG. The Director of IIPHG envisioned, “Congratulations to the entire team behind the Summer One Health School Program. This initiative will not only strengthen One Health education in India but also inspire young minds to work together for a healthier future.” This unique program is designed to help students understand the principles and significance of the One Health approach, foster a national network of youth leaders from different sectors, and prepare them with the essential skills and knowledge needed to respond to future health challenges.

The ongoing “Promotion of Well-being in Schools in Southeast Asia” project continues to highlight the innovative and meaningful actions of schools to integrate Sufficiency Economy Philosophy and One Health principles across the region. As the implementation phase of the project reached a 3-month, half-way point, a special online sharing session was organised so that the seven award-winning schools could report on their achievements to date and reflect on the lessons learned and challenges faced. A total 52 participants, including school principals, teachers, and government officials from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Cambodia, attended the session which took place on March 27, 2025. Brunei Darussalam: Fostering Resilience Through Health and Hygiene Despite an unforeseen need to relocate due to a termite infestation, SR Pehin Dato Jamil/SR PG Anak Puteri Besa, represented by Headmistress Ms. Suhaila binti Salleh, still managed to push forward the implementation of their proposed activities. Since November 2024, the school has conducted surveys and held sharing sessions with parents, introduced healthier meal options with an emphasis on fruits and vegetables, and replaced disposable packaging with reusable food trays. In parallel, efforts have been made to improve hygiene with a focus on proper food handling, sanitisation of cooking and dining areas, and the display of health promotion materials. These initiatives have led to notable behavioral changes, including students bringing and sharing fruits during the lunch break and addressing nutritional disparities for those with limited access to fresh food at home. Cambodia: Community-Led Sustainability at Smet Primary School Smet Primary School, represented by parent Ms. Tina Chum, has focused on instilling sustainable habits among students and improving the school environment. The school has introduced reusable food containers, vegetable-growing lessons, and provided a healthy breakfast buffet to promote mindful eating and reduce waste. At the same time, the school has successfully engaged parents and the local community in efforts to enhance waste segregation, upgrade food storage systems, and adapt the school garden to climate impacts by improving its roof and water systems. These initiatives have led to measurable improvements in hygiene, reduced food and plastic waste, and increased community trust in the school’s long-term vision. Indonesia: Integrating Nutrition, Innovation, and Local Partnerships At SD Negeri 2 Landasan Ulin Barat, Headmistress Ms. Inggid Megasari spearheads a multi-faceted approach to well-being centered on nutrition education and sustainable food practices. The school has implemented a balanced nutrition education campaign targeting students and parents, established a healthy food menu app, and founded a herbalist club to promote understanding of local medicinal plants. In addition, the school has improved its canteen services by offering affordable, nutritious meals and partnered with local farmers to ensure sustainable sourcing. These interventions have increased awareness and consumption of fruits and vegetables, encouraged student participation, and generated strong support from families. Malaysia: Embedding Sustainability in Everyday School Life Sekolah Bimbingan Jalinan Kasih, under the guidance of Project Coordinator Ms. Syazatul Natrah, has adopted a structured and data-informed approach to instill sustainable habits among students. Over the past 3 months the school has conducted a pre-assessment of student behaviors, introduced reusable containers and trays to reduce waste, and utilised the “Schoolpay app” to conduct daily lunch monitoring. These measures have contributed to a deeper understanding of healthy habits within the school community and reinforced a culture of environmental consciousness. Furthermore, engagement with local government and community partners has broadened the initiative’s reach, supporting a collaborative effort toward long-term change.     Philippines: Building Healthy Habits through “Project SMILE” At Patiis Elementary School, led by School Principal Ms. Florian L. Guanio, the school community has embraced well-being through the launch of “Project SMILE.” During the first cycle of project implementation, the school has successfully formed a technical working group, conducted pre-assessments of student health, and implemented initiatives such as providing balanced breakfasts, promoting hygiene routines, and encouraging fruit and vegetable consumption. A school garden and composting system supports access to fresh food while reinforcing sustainability. Additionally, SEP and One Health concepts have been introduced into the curriculum. These combined efforts have led to a noticeable improvement in student attendance, strengthened social connections, and enhanced engagement between the school and its wider community.   Thailand: Cultivating Community-Based Nutrition at Ban Pangmahan School Ban Pangmahan School, under the leadership of Mr. Danaiwat Manee, has demonstrated a strong commitment to well-being through a range of collaborative and student-centered initiatives. The school has partnered with community stakeholders to implement nutrition education, establishing informative signage and activity stations, and organising a health-focused school camp to promote safe and nutritious eating environments. The introduction of a nursery plant house and greenhouse has bolstered the school lunch programme, while waste management and composting systems have strengthened the school’s focus on sustainability. These actions have significantly enhanced both the quality of nutrition education and the level of community participation.     Thailand: Promoting Health Education and Sustainability at Aroyama Border Patrol Police School Led by Pol.Lt .Col. Dechavat Vongvai, Aroyama Border Patrol Police School has taken a holistic approach to student well-being through a combination of health education, sustainability, and community collaboration. The school has organised trainings on topics such as parasite prevention and safe drinking water, supported by local health and irrigation departments. Drawing on Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) and One Health principles, the school has integrated the concepts of self-reliance, environmental stewardship, and public health into everyday learning. These initiatives have not only increased awareness of health and nutrition but also strengthened the capacity of students and staff to implement sustainable practices. The achievements and challenges of the seven schools were acknowledged by the Project Consultant, Dr Jesus C Fernandez, Former Deputy Director of SEAMEO RECFON as well as the project partners including Ms. Duriya Amatavivat, Centre Director of SEAMEO SEPS, Ms. Teechawan Yanudom, Social Investment Advisor, Chevron Eurasia Pacific and Dr. Tongkorn Meeyam, Executive Director of SEAOHUN. Their feedback provided practical suggestions on how to promote sustainability by strengthening the active involvement of students, integrating content into existing curricula across a range of subjects, enhancing community engagement. In addition, technical advice was given on how the schools could track improvements. The mid-term reporting session reflected the schools shared commitment to reimagining education as a platform for health, sustainability, and community resilience . Whether through improved nutrition, sustainable food systems, hygiene practices, or climate-adaptive initiatives, each school was able to demonstrate how the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) and One Health frameworks can be meaningfully integrated into daily school life. The initiatives taken not only enhance students’ physical and emotional well-being but also promote environmental stewardship, strengthen school-community relationships, and build life skills essential for a changing world. As this project moves forward, it is hoped the lessons learned and models developed will continue to inspire and inform broader efforts to create healthier, more inclusive, and sustainable learning environments  across Southeast Asia. This project is the result of a successful collaboration between the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Sufficiency Economy Philosophy for Sustainability (SEAMEO SEPS), Southeast Asia One Health University Network (SEAOHUN) and Chevron.

In the heart of northeastern Thailand, smallholder farmers rely on cattle and buffalo not only for their livelihoods but also for their community’s resilience. Yet gastrointestinal (GI) parasites silently undermine animal health, economic stability, and public well-being. Through the SEAOHUN One Health Research and Training (OHRT) Awards Program, our team at Suranaree University of Technology set out to bridge science and practice—combining hard data on parasite prevalence with belief-based training grounded in One Health principles. Over five months, we partnered with farmers, local government, and veterinary experts to transform raw sample counts into sustainable on-farm solutions. Project Implementation Journey From May to July 2024, we conducted a comprehensive survey in Muang District, Nakhon Ratchasima. Exceeding our initial target of 138, we collected and analyzed 302 fecal samples using the formalin–ether concentration technique. Deworming followed immediately, with eprinomectin, ivermectin, or albendazole administered based on animal age and condition. The results revealed a 70% overall infection rate—65% among cattle, dominated by strongyle-type parasites, and 77% among buffalo, driven by rumen flukes. Integrating Prevalence and Belief While sampling, we administered pre-training questionnaires to measure farmers’ knowledge (ten multiple-choice questions), attitudes (14 GI-parasite statements and ten One Health items on Likert scales), and self-efficacy (five “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree” items). Baseline scores averaged just 4.68±1.29 out of 10 on knowledge and 23.1±3.05 out of 50 on One Health attitudes. Armed with both prevalence data and these insights, we developed tailored posters and discussion guides that connected scientific findings to local beliefs. Hands-On Training Day On 9 August 2024, we welcomed 77 participants—including municipal council members, Department of Livestock Development officers, village chiefs, and farmers—to a full-day workshop in Chaimongkol and Nong Raviang. Three keynote experts illustrated parasite lifecycles, vaccine strategies, and nutritional support. Peer-to-peer “talk-show” sessions allowed seasoned farmers to share real-world successes in deworming schedules and pasture management. These community narratives anchored new practices in lived experience. Building One Health Capacity Beyond livestock health, our workshop fostered cross-sector collaboration. Government representatives sketched plans for integrating GI control into 2025 budgets. Field veterinarians and environmental specialists co-designed grazing rotations to disrupt fluke transmission. Undergraduate students honed data-collection and public-speaking skills, while faculty refined One Health teaching modules for future cohorts. Assessing Impact and Outcomes After our full-day workshop, we felt the real outcome lay not only in numbers but in the palpable shift we saw among farmers. Poring over post-training questionnaires, we watched knowledge scores soar from an average of 4.68 to 6.75 out of 10—a leap so pronounced it carried a p-value below 0.001, underscoring those participants had truly grasped parasite lifecycles, diagnostic techniques, and prevention strategies. Equally telling was the evolution in attitudes: scores on our 14-item GI-parasite scale climbed from 31.73 to 34.28 (p < 0.001), signaling those farmers had moved from passive acknowledgment to active concern about parasite impacts on their herds. Even our One Health attitudinal measured initially a modest 23.10 out of 50—edged upward to 23.95 (p = 0.046), reflecting a deeper appreciation that animal health, human well-being, and environmental stewardship are inseparable. Perhaps most gratifying was witnessing self-efficacy blossom: where fewer than one-third of farmers once rated themselves “very confident” in controlling GI parasites, post-training over a third claimed the highest confidence level, and another 37% rose from tentative to assured in their ability to implement preventative practices. Behind these statistics were moments of real transformation. One veteran farmer, after examining his own herd’s 77% rumen-fluke prevalence, told us, “Seeing my buffalo’s numbers made me decide, today, to rotate grazing and build new watering troughs away from stagnant ponds.” Another young participant confided, “I used to dread deworming day, but now I see it as protecting my family’s livelihood.” These testimonials, woven through our survey data, convinced us that blending hard evidence with belief-centred dialogue can shift mindsets as powerfully as it shifts parasite loads. Key Lessons & Good Practices Reflecting on the past five months, three insights stand out. First, grounding our engagement in local data changed everything. When we revealed that 70% of sampled animals were infected—65% of cattle with strongyle-type eggs and 77% of buffalo with rumen flukes—farmers went from polite listeners to determined actors, eager to translate those stark figures into better on-farm practices. Second, flexibility proved indispensable. Midway through our Chaimongkol session, a sudden power outage threatened to derail our presentations. Rather than pause, we moved discussions into the courtyard by flashlight. What might have been a disruption became a spontaneous “story circle,” where farmers shared their own parasite-fighting hacks and voiced long-held frustrations. That hour under lantern light forged bonds reminded us that adaptability can turn crises into catalysts for community solidarity. Finally, early and sustained multi-sector engagement transformed workshop attendees into champions. Inviting Department of Livestock Development officers, municipal council members, and village chiefs onto our panel not only lent technical credibility but also paved the way for policy uptake. When the Chairman of Chai Mongkol Municipal Council stood to pledge GI-control funding for the 2025 fiscal year, it marked a pivotal shift—from pilot project to institutional commitment. These lessons guide our next steps: institutionalizing prevalence-belief training within SUT’s One Health curriculum, formalizing budget requests with Muang District authorities, and scheduling mid-2025 follow-up visits to ensure that transformed mindsets translate into sustained reductions in parasite burdens. By marrying rigorous data with human-centred facilitation and cross-sector collaboration, we believe this model can be replicated—building healthier herds, stronger communities, and a more resilient One Health network across Thailand and beyond. Scaling Forward & Sustainability We are drafting a manuscript to share our findings with the wider scientific community and preparing a formal budget proposal for Muang District’s next fiscal cycle. At SUT, we’ll weave our case study into the One Health curriculum, training the next generation to replicate this model nationwide. Follow-up evaluations are planned for mid-2025 to track long-term trends in parasite prevalence and farmer practices. Conclusion As we draw this chapter to a close, we find ourselves both humbled and energized by what can be achieved when rigorous science meets community wisdom. By turning raw prevalence data into belief-driven action, we not only reduced parasite burdens in hundreds of cattle and buffalo but also strengthened the confidence, knowledge, and collaborative spirit of every farmer, veterinarian, and local leader involved. Our journey in Nakhon Ratchasima has shown that lasting change stems from partnerships: researchers who listen, farmers who lead peer-to-peer learning, and government champions who translate pilot successes into policy. Looking ahead, we are committed to sustaining this momentum—embedding prevalence–belief training in academic curricula, securing municipal funding, and returning to the field to witness how empowered communities continue to safeguard animal health through One Health approaches. Together, we have laid a blueprint for resilience—one that honors both the numbers on our lab reports and the voices around our training tables. May this model inspire future collaborations across Thailand and beyond, as we strive for healthier herds, stronger communities, and a world where people, animals, and the environment thrive in harmony. Project Leader:  Pornphutthachat Sota, DVM, PhD – Principal Investigator, Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) Team Members: Assoc. Prof. Sirikachorn Tangkawattana, PhD – Parasitology & Methodology (Khon Kaen University) Assoc. Prof. Kanchana Nakhapakorn, PhD – Environmental Health (Mahidol University) Asst. Prof. Watcharapol Suyapoh, PhD – Field Parasitology (Prince of Songkla University) Leeyakorn Nonthadi, DVM – Coordination & Field Logistics (Department of Livestock Development) Rujira Nonsa-ard, PhD – Public Health & Community Engagement (Mahasarakham University)

In Malaysia’s rugged hinterlands, remote Negrito communities face a unique health challenge: zoonotic diseases that leap from wildlife to unsuspecting villagers. Recognizing this vulnerability, the SEAOHUN One Health Research and Training (OHRT) Awards Program funded the “Wash and Watch” project, spearheaded by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Azlizan Mat Enh of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. Spanning July 2024 to January 2025, the initiative aimed not merely to teach hygiene practices but to embed sustainable leadership capacities among Indigenous women transforming traditional knowledge into a frontline defense against zoonotic threats. Project Implementation Journey The project kicked off in July 2024 with ethics approval and the finalization of five training modules. Dr. Azlizan’s team loaded curriculum manuals, hygiene kits, and visual aids carefully translated into the Negrito dialect onto four-wheel drives bound for Kuala Lah village. There, under a makeshift canopy, participants gathered with JAKOA officials and village elders to co-create ground rules for the workshops and nominate 50 local women as potential health champions. Early budget delays meant only 30 Negrito women and eight support participants could be trained initially; persistent dialogue and village visits, however, built momentum and trust. By November, receipt of 60 percent of project funds enabled expansion to Gerik and Lenggong. In each locale, 38 attendees—32 women and six men—spent five intensive days rotating through stations on soap-making with local ingredients, hands-on demonstrations of water filtration techniques, and role-plays of 48-hour disease-reporting drills. When seasonal downpours flooded the training ground, trainees themselves rearranged community halls sweeping floors and repositioning benches to ensure sessions continued uninterrupted. This collective effort fortified both logistical resilience and communal ownership of learning. Enhancing One Health Knowledge and Skills Baseline assessments revealed that fewer than 20 percent of participants could describe a zoonotic transmission pathway. After training, this figure soared above 80 percent, with many women confidently explaining how pathogens in bushmeat or contaminated water led to illnesses like leptospirosis and avian influenza. Pre- and post-test questionnaires showed a 60 percent increase in regular handwashing and a 75 percent adoption rate of safe food-handling steps, including proper cooking temperatures and storage practices. Importantly, 10 women emerged as peer instructors, demonstrating strong facilitation skills in small-group discussions and simulation exercises. Their ability to mentor new cohorts promises to anchor One Health practices long after the project’s close. Advancing One Health Education and Practice For faculty at OHUN member universities, “Wash and Watch” has become a living laboratory for curriculum innovation. By integrating project case studies into toxicology, veterinary, and public health courses, students gain firsthand exposure to the complexities of community-centered interventions. Field practicums now send trainees to Negrito villages to observe peer-led workshops, conduct focus group discussions, and assist with 48-hour reporting drills. This transdisciplinary approach melding anthropology, environmental science, and epidemiology ensures graduates are not only scientifically adept but also culturally sensitive and adept at stakeholder engagement. Anticipated Impact on Target Communities The immediate legacy of “Wash and Watch” is already measurable: within weeks of project completion, the trained surveillance network flagged three suspected zoonotic events, triggering prompt health authority responses that likely averted larger outbreaks. Weekly peer-support circles established by the local instructors keep hygiene stations stocked and refresh risk-communication messages. Neighboring villages have requested their own training cohorts, reflecting the model’s organic appeal. Over the next six months, we anticipate these ripple effects will expand to at least five additional communities, embedding a culture of proactive disease prevention and reinforcing women’s roles as health stewards. Contributing to One Health in Malaysia By positioning Indigenous women at the core of zoonotic prevention, “Wash and Watch” offers a scalable blueprint for national policy. Meetings with the Ministry of Health and JAKOA are underway to formalize community-driven surveillance in Malaysia’s official zoonotic preparedness frameworks. Partnerships with NGOs and academic institutions have secured letters of intent for multi-year support, while draft MoUs outline collaboration on future train-the-trainer programs. This convergence of grassroots leadership and policy engagement promises to narrow the persistent gap between health mandates and community practice. Lessons Learned and Good Practices Reflecting on the “Wash and Watch” experience, we discovered that genuine engagement hinges on cultural resonance. In our early workshops, purely technical language and generic hygiene demonstrations fell flat. It was only when facilitators began interweaving Negrito conservation stories drawing parallels between ancestral stewardship of forests and modern disease‐prevention practices those participants truly connected with the material. By framing handwashing and safe food handling as extensions of ancestral wisdom, we turned abstract health messages into tangible community values. Another pivotal insight was the power of peer‐led facilitation. From the outset, we invited Indigenous women not just to attend but to lead role‐plays, guide small‐group discussions, and co‐design activity stations. As these women stepped into co‐trainer roles, attendance and participation soared. Their deep understanding of local norms allowed them to translate concepts into relatable examples, fostering a sense of ownership that proved essential for lasting behavior change. Flexibility in logistics also emerged as a key good practice. When sudden monsoon downpours rendered our open‐air venue unusable, trainees and facilitators sprang into action—relocating equipment, rearranging benches, and preparing village halls for uninterrupted sessions. This collaborative problem‐solving not only kept the curriculum on track but also strengthened communal bonds and demonstrated that health interventions must adapt to environmental realities. Finally, embedding a rigorous, mixed‐methods evaluation framework allowed us to fine‐tune the program in real time. By pairing quantitative pre- and post‐training assessments with qualitative focus group feedback and field observations, we tracked both knowledge gains—such as the 60 percent increase in handwashing frequency—and nuanced shifts in attitudes toward disease surveillance. These insights guided mid-course adjustments to content and delivery, reinforcing the project’s credibility and ensuring its relevance to participants’ lived experiences. Sustaining and Scaling Forward To ensure long-term impact, the ten certified instructors are formalizing village health committees, slated to convene quarterly for refresher drills and peer reviews. A hybrid reporting network—merging SMS alerts with community radio bulletins—is being piloted to bridge connectivity gaps. Academically, UKM is institutionalizing “Wash and Watch” practicums within its One Health modules, ensuring future cohorts carry the torch of community engagement. Meanwhile, policy dialogues aim to embed this grassroots surveillance model into national planning documents, backed by budgetary provisions for equipment and ongoing training. Through these layered strategies community, academic, and policy, the project is charting a sustainable, scalable path for Indigenous women to remain guardians of Malaysia’s communal health. Conclusion The “Wash and Watch” project has demonstrated that effective zoonotic disease prevention emerges when science, tradition, and leadership converge. By transforming 30 Negrito women into peer instructors, embedding surveillance networks, and engaging policy stakeholders, we have not only mitigated immediate risks but also built a replicable, enduring framework for One Health resilience. As these Indigenous guardians continue to champion hygiene and early detection, they stand as living proof that community-driven solutions are our strongest defense against emerging health threats both in Malaysia and beyond. Team Leader: Assoc. Prof. Dr Azlizan Mat Enh, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Team Member: Professor Dr. Hidayatulfathi Othman, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Professor Dr. Fazal Mohamed Mohamed Sultan, Universiti

Along Thailand’s northern frontier, remote hill‐tribe villages and health‐promoting hospitals grapple with hard‐to‐reach terrain, limited laboratory infrastructure, and a heavy burden of zoonotic diseases. Recognizing this vulnerability, the Center of Excellence for Hill Tribe Health Research at Mae Fah Luang University launched a SEAOHUN One Health Research and Training Awards project. Under the leadership of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tawatchai Apidechkul, we sought to transform frontline capacity by blending epidemiology, environmental science, veterinary insights, and community engagement into a comprehensive, five-day training—ultimately equipping district health officers and hospital staff to detect, investigate, and control threats where human, animal, and environmental health converge. Project Implementation Journey Our journey began with a joint needs assessment conducted in collaboration with the Chiang Rai Provincial Public Health Office, six district health offices, and twenty health-promoting hospitals. Drawing on this consultation, we assembled an interdisciplinary faculty—epidemiologists, environmental health experts, veterinarians, and laboratory scientists to co-design a curriculum that mirrored real‐world challenges. Curriculum development took place over May and June 2024, during which our team held weekly workshops to refine learning objectives and materials. We faced inevitable obstacles: several invited speakers proved unavailable on original dates, prompting us to tap into local networks and invite additional experts from the Department of Livestock Development and Faculty of Medicine at Chiang Mai University. Financial hiccups also arose when SEAOHUN disbursements were delayed; the CEHR team promptly bridged funding gaps with internal resources, ensuring no interruption to our timeline. By early July, we had recruited 27 fellows (20 female, 7 male) from sub-district and district levels based on clear selection criteria: at least two years of experience in disease investigation and a bachelor’s degree in health sciences. A pilot workshop in Nong Saeb Village tested our Epicollect questionnaires and environmental sampling protocols, leading to minor adjustments in field exercise plans. Building One Health Expertise From 1–5 July 2024 at Phufa Waree Chiang Rai Resort, participants dived into morning lectures on One Health principles, epidemiological methods, and key zoonoses scrub typhus, leptospirosis, and emerging viral threats. Afternoons alternated between: Laboratory Demonstrations: Microscopic identification of Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex mosquitoes; intestinal parasite examinations in human and animal stools; water quality assessments using portable test kits; and microbial contamination checks in food samples. Field Exercises: Small‐group data collection in village households, engaging local health volunteers to map livestock exposures and water sources. Data Analysis Workshops: Hands-on training in SPSS for descriptive and inferential statistics, culminating in each team presenting a mini-analysis of One Health datasets. These activities were never abstract; they sprang from case studies drawn directly from our midterm findings on hill-tribe health research and the COVID-19 response, grounding theory in frontline realities. When a mid-week power outage threatened to derail our microscopy session, the group simply migrated outdoors under lanterns. Far from stalling progress, the impromptu “lantern circle” deepened peer learning, as trainees shared their own parasite‐control experiences a testament to adaptability and community solidarity. Measurable Gains and Evaluations Pre- and post-training tests demonstrated dramatic improvements: average scores surged from 26.00 (SD 5.16) to 42.19 (SD 6.49) out of 50 (t = 15.41, p < 0.001), confirming significant knowledge acquisition. Participant feedback rated the relevance of field exercises and interdisciplinary discussions highest, with many noting newfound confidence in designing surveillance protocols and risk communication plans. The training report recorded 37 total attendees including two facilitators, eight organizers, and observers highlighting broad institutional engagement. Age breakdown showed 15 participants under 30, fostering vibrant intergenerational exchanges alongside seasoned public health officers. Embedding One Health into Education and Practice To cement sustainability, we integrated the five-day curriculum as a three-credit elective in MFU’s Bachelor of Public Health program. Starting next semester, over 100 students, including 30% international will train in the same laboratory, field, and analysis modules, ensuring the ripple effect extends beyond current fellows. Simultaneously, we established a dedicated LINE group and scheduled annual follow-up workshops to maintain peer support, troubleshoot implementation challenges, and update materials based on evolving disease patterns. Ripple Effect in Border Communities Already, alumni have partnered with village health volunteers to standardize water sampling and collaborate with livestock officers on pasture management measures to curb leptospirosis spikes during monsoons. In one district, rapid detection of a dengue cluster triggered coordinated vector control and risk communication, likely averting a larger outbreak. These early wins underscore how district-level capacity building cascades into community resilience. Lessons and Insights Our experience revealed that anchoring training in locally generated data transformed abstract concepts into urgent imperatives. Fellows were galvanized by prevalences such as 70% positivity in environmental samples prompting swift adoption of control measures. Flexibility emerged as equally critical: whether adjusting schedules for speaker availability or relocating labs due to infrastructure hiccups, agile management kept momentum alive and fostered collective problem-solving. Multi-sector engagement proved foundational: from village chiefs to provincial directors, involving stakeholders from Day 1 ensured that training outcomes translated into concrete policy and budget commitments. Establishing ongoing communication channels through digital platforms and scheduled check-ins has kept the network vibrant, turning a single workshop into a living, evolving One Health community of practice. Looking Ahead As we draft a manuscript to share our curriculum and impact data, we are also preparing budget proposals with Chiang Rai authorities to secure recurring funding for One Health training in the 2025 fiscal year. Mid-2025 follow-up visits will assess long-term trends in surveillance practices, outbreak response times, and community health indicators ensuring that our model remains both evidence-driven and community-centered. Conclusion Our SEAOHUN-supported initiative has not only elevated individual competencies but also seeded a durable One Health ecosystem along Thailand’s most vulnerable borderlands. By weaving rigorous science with community wisdom and embedding the curriculum into academic programs, we offer a replicable blueprint for resilience, one that empowers trainees to become leaders, institutions to commit resources, and communities to safeguard their own health for generations to come. Project Leader: Dr. Tawatchai Apidechkul – Director, Center of Excellence for the Hill Tribe Health Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Thailand Team Members: • Dr. Thapakorn Ruanjai – Public Health, Mae Fah Luang University • Dr. Woottichai Nachaiwieng – Biomedical Science, Mae Fah Luang University • Dr. Anuwat Aunkham – Environmental Health, Mae Fah Luang University • Dr. Jongkon Saising – Biomedical Science, Mae Fah Luang University • Dr. Puckavadee Somwang – School of Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University • Dr. Nawarat Ninprapha – DVM, FETP, Department of Livestock Development, Nan Province • Dr. Phitsanuruk Kanthawee – Public Health, Mae Fah Luang University • Dr. Pamornsri Inchon – Public Health, Mae Fah Luang University • Mr. Anusorn Udplong – Public Health, Mae Fah Luang University • Ms. Thanatchaporn Mulikaburt – Public Health, Mae Fah Luang University • Mr. Ratipark Tamornpark – Public Health, Mae Fah Luang University • Mr. Panupong Upala – Biomedical Science, Mae Fah Luang University • Ms. Chalitar Chomchoei – Public Health, Mae Fah Luang University • Mr. Chaloemphan Kaewkanta – Occupational Health, Mae Fah Luang University • Ms. Fartima Yeemard – Center of Excellence for the Hill Tribe Health Research • Ms. Buathanya Srikua – Center of Excellence for the Hill Tribe Health Research • Mr. Manasawin Kampun – Center of Excellence for the Hill Tribe Health Research

In early 2024, our multidisciplinary team convened with a shared conviction: no Filipino should defer essential medical care because of distance, cost, or clinic overcrowding. Inspired by a caregiver’s account of a missing follow-up visit—skipped because of prohibitive bus fares—we embarked on a journey under the SEAOHUN One Health Research and Training (OHRT) Awards Program. Our goal was audacious yet clear: develop Medee , a mobile-first telehealth platform that would bring high-quality consultations, diagnostics, and culturally relevant health education directly into the hands of families across every island and barangay. Project Implementation Journey Long before funding arrived, we sketched Medee on a whiteboard, fueled by coffee and determination. Early brainstorming sessions charted the core features: seamless video calls, encrypted messaging, e-prescriptions, and bite-sized learning modules on topics from dengue prevention to maternal health. Once funded in May 2024, we formalized weekly “innovation sprints.” Clinicians, engineers, content creators, and legal advisors gathered—sometimes past midnight—to prototype new ideas, test workflows, and draft compliance protocols. By July, core teleconsultation features and One Health modules for infection tracking and community risk communication had passed internal alpha testing, laying the groundwork for broader deployment. Piloting with People: The Beta Experience The true turning point came in October 2024, when we launched Medee’s beta program with three volunteer physicians and 300 patients spanning Metro Manila, Batangas, and Nueva Ecija. We guided participants through installation via simple chat instructions on Messenger, ensuring that even first-time smartphone users could navigate the app. Consultation bookings, follow-up reminders, and interactive quizzes on preventive measures all unfolded within a single interface. One early user shared at dawn, “I spoke with a doctor before sunrise—my grandmother followed her instructions perfectly,” while a physician partner reported, “The dashboard flagged a cluster of flu-like cases in Barangay San Miguel—information I’d never receive so quickly through traditional channels”. Collecting both quantitative metrics and personal narratives, we uncovered patterns that informed rapid enhancements. Low-bandwidth video buffering issues were resolved with an adaptive bitrate algorithm. Content originally drafted in English was translated and voice-overed into Tagalog for greater accessibility. Within weeks, user satisfaction scores rose above 90%, and retention rates outpaced comparable telehealth pilots regionally. Strengthening One Health Expertise Beyond technical milestones, Medee became a crucible for One Health capacity building. Our data-science team refined algorithms to forecast peak consultation hours, enabling proactive clinician scheduling. Simultaneously, our legal advisors guided us through the intricacies of the Philippine Data Privacy Act, crafting protocols that assured users their personal and health information would be safeguarded at every step. In our weekly “clinical-tech huddles,” software engineers gained firsthand insights into epidemiological priorities, while doctors learned to interpret real-time analytics dashboards. This cross-pollination yielded a team fluent in both code and case management, poised to mentor future cohorts of One Health professionals in universities and health departments nationwide. Anticipating Impact & Scaling Forward With promising pilot results in hand, we are now charting Medee’s expansion across the archipelago. Over the next six months, we plan to introduce the platform to underserved communities in the Visayas and Mindanao, targeting over 1,000 active users. Partnerships with municipal health offices will enable us to share anonymized trend dashboards, empowering local officials to detect disease outbreaks in near real-time and deploy resources more efficiently. Concurrently, we are collaborating with the National University–Manila and other institutions to embed Medee’s case studies into public health, veterinary, and environmental science curricula. By integrating hands-on digital health experience into academic programs, we aim to cultivate a new generation of One Health innovators equipped to tackle complex health challenges with interdisciplinary solutions. Key Lessons & Good Practices Our Medee journey yielded insights applicable to any technology-driven health initiative. First, build flexibility into timelines: typhoons, app-store review delays, and shifting regulatory guidelines all underscored the need for generous schedule buffers. Second, lead with empathy: by engaging community leaders and caregivers early—listening to their stories of hardship and resilience—we ensured Medee’s features addressed genuine needs rather than theoretical use cases. Third, anchor innovation in human narratives: a grandmother’s healing from a timely teleconsultation or a barangay captain spotting a flu cluster became touchpoints that kept our work grounded and motivated. These guiding principles have shaped our roadmap for Medee’s next chapters and will inform broader One Health initiatives across Southeast Asia. Conclusion Medee stands as a testament to what can be achieved when technology, collaboration, and compassion converge. By democratizing access to healthcare, streamlining data-driven decision-making, and fostering interdisciplinary expertise, we have turned smartphones into powerful tools for community resilience. As health threats evolve, so must our responses. We invite fellow One Health champions to embrace technology with empathy, listen deeply to the communities they serve, and forge partnerships across disciplines. Together, we can build a more resilient, inclusive, and responsive healthcare system for all Filipinos—one tap at a time. Project Leader: Wins C. Esteban – Assistant Professor, National University–Manila, Philippines Team Members: Sydney Joi Agcaoili – Engineering Lead, Software Development and Systems Integration, Milkdromeda PH / Coltrain.io , Philippines Tessalonica Priela – Clinical Operations Lead, Clinical Compliance and Product Ideation, Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center / ManilaMed / Fe Del Mundo Medical Center, Philippines Gabriel Napilot – Product Design and Quality Assurance Lead, Branding and UX Strategy, GN Studio / GreauxDigital USA / TechTribe AU / Titan Power Plus UK, Philippines

Through the SEAOHUN One Health Research and Training (OHRT) Awards Program, Dr. Rodel Jonathan S. Vitor and his colleagues at the University of the Philippines Manila embarked on a journey to transform veterinary biosafety education nationwide. What began as a series of online discussions soon blossomed into a vibrant community of 35 educators, practitioners, and policy-makers united by a shared vision: equip future veterinarians with the skills to safeguard animal, human, and environmental health. Project Implementation Journey In June 2024, a diverse group of faculty members joined six interactive webinars, unpacking modules from the Sandia Global Biorisk Management Curriculum. Between typhoon alerts and teaching deadlines, participants paused their everyday routines to debate real-life case studies: a laboratory near-miss in Cavite, improvised personal protective equipment in Agusan, and the latest CHED biosafety standards. These sessions were more than lectures—they were incubators for empathy, as colleagues traded stories of local outbreaks and laboratory challenges. Armed with these insights, the team launched a nationwide survey, gathering 77 responses from veterinary practitioners, public health officers, and university lecturers. The results pointed to critical gaps: waste-management simulations, shipping protocols for infectious samples, and clearer pathways for engaging local government units in biosafety policy. Rather than a static report, these data became the compass that guided syllabus design. In mid-September, 27 educators converged at UP Manila for an intensive two-day workshop. Over shared coffee and animated whiteboard sessions, they wove survey findings into a cohesive 12-week syllabus. One breakout group drafted a module on “Field Biosafety in Flood-Prone Areas,” drawing on recent leptospirosis outbreaks to bring theory to life. Another crafted assessment rubrics centered on role-play simulations of lab accidents. By workshop’s end, a unified biosafety course—complete with session plans, reading lists, and evaluation tools—stood ready for pilot testing in January 2025. Building One Health Knowledge and Skills Beyond technical content, the process deepened participants’ capacity for interdisciplinary collaboration. Lecturers who once taught in silos discovered the power of co-creating materials with epidemiologists and environmental health experts. A junior faculty member from Visayas recalled, “Drafting a policy brief on the Philippine Biosecurity Act alongside public health officers showed me how to speak policy-maker language.” These moments of cross-fertilization nurtured both the hard skills of curriculum design and the soft skills of negotiation, storytelling, and adaptive leadership. Empowering Educators and Strengthening Policy As the syllabus took shape, partnerships flourished. The Philippine Association of Veterinary Medical Educators and Schools (PAVMES) embraced the project, pledging to cascade the materials through regional workshops. Meanwhile, a synthesis of survey insights and workshop recommendations found its way into CHED consultations, helping align national guidelines with grassroots realities. Educators are not merely transmitters of knowledge—they have become advocates, bridging the gap between classroom best practices and national biosafety policy. Lessons Learned and Path Forward Several insights emerged from the journey: Inclusivity fuels ownership. Involving deans, municipal veterinarians, and students from the outset ensured the syllabus reflected diverse needs. Narrative anchors learning. Real-world anecdotes—whether of makeshift face shields or autoclave failures—kept the curriculum grounded and relatable. Flexibility sustains momentum. When a typhoon disrupted Internet access, session dates shifted; when survey responses lagged, friendly reminders kept engagement high. Looking ahead, the team will pilot the syllabus in three institutions—UP Manila, Central Mindanao University, and Visayas State University—from January to May 2025. A Training-of-Trainers program will follow, cultivating regional “biosafety ambassadors” who can adapt modules into Cebuano, Ilocano, and Hiligaynon contexts. Meanwhile, an online forum hosted by PAVMES will keep the syllabus “alive,” allowing educators to share new case studies, troubleshooting tips, and emerging research. Conclusion What began as a Zoom invitation has grown into a national movement. By weaving together virtual classrooms, candid surveys, and hands-on workshops, Dr. Vitor’s team has forged more than a syllabus—they have built a community committed to One Health. As students don new lab coats and step into field clinics in early 2025, they will carry with them not only protocols and rubrics but the collective wisdom of 35 change-makers who dared to collaborate across islands and disciplines. “Every lesson we teach today becomes a shield against tomorrow’s outbreaks.” Team Leader: Dr. Rodel Jonathan S. Vitor II, DVM, PhD, National Training Center for Biosafety and Biosecurity, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila Team Members: Rohani Cena-Navarro , Researcher, University of the Philippines Manila, Jose Obedencio Jr. , Dean, Central Mindanao University Jan Mickaele De Leon , Program Manager, University of the Philippines Manila

In an era where human, animal, and environmental health are deeply interconnected, integrating One Health education into school curricula is a crucial step toward a healthier future. Recognizing this, SEAOHUN, SEAMEO TROPMED, and the Department of Education, with support from Chevron, have been working together to mainstream One Health education in the basic education curriculum of the Philippines. To understand the significance of this initiative, we sat down with Dr. Ma. Sandra B. Tempongko, Deputy Coordinator of SEAMEO TROPMED Network, Dr. Margarita C. Ballesteros, Director IV at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines, and ASEC. Georgina H. Yang, Assistant Secretary for External Partnerships and International Cooperation at the Department of Education of the Philippines to discuss how this project is shaping education, empowering teachers, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Dr. Ma. Sandra B. Tempongko, Deputy Coordinator of SEAMEO TROPMED Network Q: Why is integrating One Health education into school curricula so important? Dr. Tempongko: One Health recognizes that the health of humans, domestic and wild animals, plants, and the wider environment (including ecosystems) are closely linked and interdependent. Understanding of the interdependence of these three will facilitate early development of promotive and preventative behavior of everyone. School plays a key role in the development of positive attitudes and behaviors that can help them in making decisions later in life. One Health-themed lessons and perspectives train young minds to look more deeply into the causes of social and health challenges, in addition, students can bring these concepts home and to the greater community. Dr. Ballesteros:  Integrating One Health education into school curricula is crucial because it helps students understand the interconnectedness of human health, animal health and environmental health.  With the holistic approach, it will equip learners with the knowledge and skills to address global health challenges such as pandemics, climate change, food security among others. It will also help build awareness of preventive measures and responsible behaviors that can be passed on from learners, teachers to the community. ASEC. Yang: Many of the challenges we face today are interconnected. One Health Education promotes systems thinking – it allows us to see the connection of human health with animal health as well as planetary health. When we enable learners to understand these linkages, we allow them to have a better understanding of adaptive challenges and an ability to create more sustainable solutions. One Health Education serves as a very good case study and exercise in building critical thinking among learners – an essential skill that all learners must master. Ms. Margarita C. Ballesteros, Director IV at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines Q: How does teacher feedback shape the curriculum to ensure it fits their classrooms? Dr. Ballesteros: Since teachers are the ones implementing the curriculum daily, their insights help refine instructional materials, teaching strategies, and learning objectives. Regular teacher feedback creates a cycle of curriculum refinement, ensuring that teaching materials are relevant. Dr. Tempongko: Teachers’ feedback is very relevant in shaping a curriculum that fits the classroom as well as the students’ level of competencies. They are the ones inside the classroom and know best the motivation and interests of the students as well as effective strategies, teaching-learning activities, that will enable a positive learning environment for the students. ASEC. Yang: Teacher feedback ensures that content is appropriate based on local contexts and learners’ abilities. It also ensures that is it feasible given their available resources and time. It is necessary to even go beyond teacher feedback and engage teachers in every step of the way, including the initial stages of development. This will lead to stronger ownership and buy-in among teachers who are the front liners of delivering the curriculum. It will also ensure better learning outcomes and achievement of the learning objectives.   Feedback Workshop on Mainstreaming One Health Education in the Basic Education Curriculum in Pampanga, Philippines ASEC. Georgina H. Yang, Assistant Secretary for External Partnerships and International Cooperation at the Department of Education of the Philippines Q: What are the key factors in making this initiative sustainable? ASEC. Yang: Collaborative and participatory approaches in the development of modules and materials will help ensure that this initiative will be sustainable. In addition, engagement with local stakeholders such as city, municipal and barangay governments could help amplify the lessons and apply them in everyday life for learners to observe its impact and appreciate its value. Developing policies to institutionalize these efforts would also be useful. Dr. Tempongko: Based on experience, a number of key factors contribute to the sustainability of this initiative. Foremost is gaining the acceptance of policymakers by demonstrating its relevance and alignment with the national education agenda. The active participation of school officials in all related activities is crucial, as their engagement fosters long-term commitment. Equally important is ensuring that classroom teachers are both interested and competent, highlighting the need for continuous capacity building. Teaching and learning activities should be tailored to the appropriate grade-level competencies and supported by adequate reference materials. Additionally, establishing a strong mentorship and support system, especially in the initial stages of implementation, is essential to guide teachers and reinforce best practices. Dr. Ballesteros:  Sustaining an initiative that has created a good impact needs the following factors, alignment of such an initiative with the existing agenda of the administration, strong participation of multi stakeholders’ engagement- government and public private partnerships, accepted by the program implementors both national and local levels, available materials are ensured for the use of the schools and communities. Q: What are the next steps for expanding One Health education? Dr. Tempongko: The next step is actually to ensure that the reference materials/modules specifically the One Health concepts to be mainstreamed are aligned with the national curriculum and the competencies required for the entry points in the curriculum for each grade level. This alignment with the national curriculum and learning competencies will ensure that the recommended One Health concepts can be mainstreamed seamlessly in the national curriculum and will ensure the classroom implementation. Dr. Ballesteros: To effectively expand One Health education, a strategic multi sectoral approach is needed. The Deped should formally integrate One Health into the K-12 curriculum, strengthen multi-sector collaboration, partner with other national government agencies and engage universities, andresearch institutions. Capacity building for school leaders and teachers is also another step. ASEC. Yang: A learning and sharing forum among government and non-government partners could help in expanding the reach of this important initiative. To make this meaningful, a robust process documentation and data collection on the pilot implementation of One Health education should be done so that it could be analyzed in preparation for replicating it and scaling it up to other schools and divisions. The Curriculum and Teaching strand, which has been actively involved in the process could also recommend enhancements and tweaks to existing modules based on the learnings and lessons from the pilot. The training of teachers through the National Educators Academy of the Philippines could also enrich the insights on this initiative and expand its reach as well. These are all possible through the technical expertise of SEAMEO TROPMED and SEOHUN as well as the support of Chevron.   The success of this initiative highlights the power of collaboration and the dedication of schoolteachers, principals, government agencies, and organizations working toward a healthier future. With Chevron’s support, SEAOHUN and SEAMEO TROPMED’s collaboration, and the Department of Education of the Philippines ’s leadership, One Health education for all is becoming a reality—empowering schools, equipping students, and strengthening communities. This marks a crucial step in integrating One Health into schools, ensuring lasting impact for generations to come.

Through the SEAOHUN One Health Research and Training (OHRT) Awards Program, a multidisciplinary team at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) led by Dr. Yu Choo Yee launched an innovative project to build real-time sequencing capacity for emerging zoonotic diseases. By blending hands-on laboratory training with bioinformatics, the initiative equipped 21 professionals from human health, veterinary, environmental science, and data analysis backgrounds—setting a new benchmark for integrated surveillance in Southeast Asia. Project Implementation Experience Our journey unfolded in three phases. First, between May and July 2024, a cross-sector working group drafted a One Health genomic surveillance module. Experts in molecular biology, virology, parasitology, and bioinformatics collaborated to develop case studies on avian influenza and Nipah virus, standard operating procedures for portable nanopore sequencers, and guided pipelines for genome assembly and phylogenetic analysis. Next, we procured reagents and consumables, leveraging a single-release budget to accelerate lab setup. A recruitment poster yielded 60 applications within 24 hours; 22 candidates were shortlisted to ensure 21 attendees. Finally, from 19–23 August 2024 in Selangor, Malaysia, participants immersed themselves in a five-day workshop featuring lectures, wet-lab sequencing runs, and data-analysis challenges—all designed to mirror real-world outbreak scenarios. Building One Health Capacities The program delivered tangible skill gains: Technical Mastery: All trainees successfully prepared sequencing libraries, managed runs on portable devices, and generated high-quality phylogenetic trees. Data Fluency: Hands-on bioinformatics sessions demystified base calling, variant calling, and outbreak tracing, with participants interpreting transmission networks from real datasets. Interdisciplinary Communication: Collaborative breakout exercises fostered dialogue between sectors, improving participants’ ability to translate genomic findings into actionable public health recommendations. Post-training assessments showed a 45% average score increase, underscoring the workshop’s impact on knowledge and confidence. Empowering the Next Generation Beyond technical skills, the project nurtured trainers and future educators. Postgraduates and science officers served as workshop facilitators, gaining supervisory experience and deepening their One Health perspectives. Back at their home institutions, participants have begun drafting proposals to replicate the workshop, ensuring that genomic surveillance expertise radiates outward from UPM into national public health laboratories and veterinary services. Institutional Integration & Policy Influence UPM has formally integrated the module into its postgraduate curriculum, enriching courses in epidemiology and laboratory science with real-time sequencing case studies. Meanwhile, trainees at a National Public Health Laboratory have adapted workshop materials to establish routine genomic monitoring, directly informing Malaysia’s outbreak preparedness plans. This alignment of academia, government, and community laboratories exemplifies how targeted training can reshape national surveillance frameworks. Lessons Learned & Future Directions Flexible Scheduling: Buffer periods in the timeline accommodated procurement delays, ensuring smooth workshop delivery. Streamlined Funding: A consolidated budget disbursement minimized administrative hurdles and expedited reagent orders. Stakeholder Engagement: Regular check-ins with lab managers, ministry officials, and community leaders kept the module relevant and practicable. Train-the-Trainer Model: Empowering facilitators fosters sustainability, enabling institutions to host future workshops independently. Looking ahead, we plan to expand this model across Malaysia’s regions and to neighboring Southeast Asian countries, building a resilient network of One Health genomic surveillance specialists. Conclusion The SEAOHUN OHRT Awards Program has demonstrated that immersive, technology-driven training can rapidly fortify a One Health workforce. By weaving together hands-on sequencing, bioinformatics, and interdisciplinary collaboration, this project has laid a scalable foundation for genomic surveillance—equipping Malaysia and the region to detect, analyze, and respond to zoonotic threats with unprecedented speed and coordination. Team Leader: Dr. Yu Choo Yee – Research Officer, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia Core Team Members: Prof. Dr. Zunita Zakaria – Veterinary Microbiology & Molecular Biology, UPM Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nurulfiza Mat Isa – Molecular Biology, UPM Prof. Dr. Chan Kok Gan – Next-Generation Sequencing, University of Malaya Prof. Dr. Syafinaz Amin Nordin – Clinical Microbiology, UPM Prof. Dr. Chee Hui Yee – Medical Virology, UPM Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nor Yasmin Abd Rahman – Veterinary Virology, UPM Dr. Nur Indah Ahmad – Veterinary Public Health, UPM Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tengku Shahrul Anuar – Parasitology, Universiti Teknologi MARA Dr. Ang Geik Yong – Genotyping & Sequencing, Universiti Teknologi MARA

A Climate-Smart, Community-Led Response to Zoonotic Threats Through the SEAOHUN One Health Research and Training (OHRT) Awards Program, a team from Diponegoro University led by Dr. Ir. Martini, M.Kes., launched a project to mitigate zoonotic disease risks in flood-prone Semarang, Indonesia. By integrating multisectoral collaboration and empowering women in the frontline, the project became a pioneering example of how local communities can lead in climate-informed public health strategies. This article summarizes the project’s goals, activities, lessons, and anticipated long-term impact. Project Implementation Experience The project began with mapping vector density and identifying environmental risk factors through 14 days of field surveys. High populations of mosquitoes and rats were found in areas with stagnant water, highlighting sanitation challenges intensified by climate change. GIS analysis helped predict zoonotic disease transmission patterns, which informed intervention zones. The project then convened cross-sector partners—including government agencies, academia, civil society, and media—through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). These led to the creation of strategic plans and an Integrity Pact, and to piloting a new concept: 'Climate Smart Villages.' Building One Health Knowledge and Skills The SEAOHUN OHRT initiative enhanced both technical and soft skills for the project team. Members gained experience in environmental health surveillance, data-driven decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and communication. GIS modeling and data validation skills were particularly strengthened. Just as important was learning how to build trust and coordinate with sectors that traditionally work independently. Empowering Women for Health Resilience The project’s highlight was the two-day women-led training conducted in November 2024, involving 35 participants from climate-affected areas. Sessions included presentations on zoonoses, disaster preparedness, climate adaptation strategies, and community engagement. Women learned to use eco-enzyme production, rainwater harvesting, and biopores as practical tools to enhance resilience. Pre- and post-tests showed significant knowledge improvement, and participants drafted action plans tailored to their community needs. Strengthening Institutions and Influencing Policy At the academic level, Diponegoro University incorporated case studies and data from this project into its public health curriculum. A policy brief and module were developed and presented to the Semarang Environmental Agency, which supported including health within its climate adaptation initiatives. The project is now influencing the design of integrated services and advocating for long-term health monitoring systems in Semarang’s climate plans. Lessons Learned and Future Directions This project underscored the value of early engagement with stakeholders and of adapting strategies to local contexts. Although challenges such as time constraints and data processing delays arose, the strength of the community partnerships sustained progress. The team plans to expand the Climate Smart Village model and advocate for national-level adoption of community-based, One Health-informed planning approaches. Conclusion The SEAOHUN OHRT Awards Program enabled a model that bridges climate science, public health, and community leadership. By centering local voices and data, this initiative not only addresses zoonotic threats but also strengthens resilience against future climate-related health crises. Indonesia’s example offers valuable lessons for the region and underscores the importance of community-driven, multisectoral collaboration in achieving sustainable health outcomes. Team Leader: Dr. Ir. Martini, M.Kes – Head of Epidemiology and Tropical Disease Department, Faculty of Public Health, Diponegoro University Team Members: Dr. K.M. Dra Ayun Sriatmi, M.Kes – Department of Health Administration and Policy | Lead on Health Management Systems Pangi, ST., MT – Department of Regional & City Planning | Geospatial Analysis Specialist Dianis Januar Khoirunnisa, SE.MM – Head of Natural Resources Economic Working, Regional Development Planning Agency | Sustainability Analyst Siti Rahayu, SKM – Epidemiology Postgraduate School | Survey and Data Analyst