SEAOHWA Launches in Laos: Opening Doors to One Health Learning

The Southeast Asia One Health Workforce Academies (SEA-OHWA), a regional learning platform powered by the Southeast Asia One Health University Network (SEAOHUN), officially launched in Laos—marking a major step in expanding One Health education in the region. The event introduced Lao-language online courses to

students, faculty, and professionals, creating new opportunities for local learners to access critical knowledge and skills in One Health.

Held at the University of Health Sciences (UHS) in Vientiane, the launch brought together 40 participants from across government, academia, and civil society. This milestone was made possible through the strong collaboration between SEAOHUN, its Laos chapter (LAOHUN), and key partners including the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Chevron, who have provided vital support to expand the reach of One Health education across Southeast Asia.

“This launch marks an important milestone in making One Health knowledge more accessible,” said Dr. Tongkorn Meeyam, Executive Director of SEAOHUN. “With support from USAID and Chevron, and the leadership of LAOHUN, we are able to localize One Health learning for Lao audiences and empower them to make a difference.”

Local Language, Local Experts, Global Goals The SEA-OHWA platform is a free, flexible online learning hub offering courses in several Southeast Asian languages. With the Lao-language launch, learners can now

access locally developed courses on topics such as:

• One Health Approach for frontline health workers

• Ecosystem and environmental health

• Zoonotic disease outbreak response

• Laboratory practices and antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

  
  

These courses were designed and presented by Lao experts from institutions including the Ministry of Health, National University of Laos, Champasak University, and Savannakhet University. The event highlighted each course and how it connects with current health challenges in Laos and beyond.

A Platform for Knowledge and Partnership

The event created space for cross-sector dialogue, bringing together faculty, government officials from the Department of Health Personnel, and NGO partners such as WWF. It also strengthened the partnership between SEAOHUN and LAOHUN, reinforcing their shared commitment to build a stronger One Health workforce in the country.

Thanks to this collaborative effort, 17 new Lao learners registered on the SEA-OHWA platform during the event—joining more than 200 learners already enrolled from across the Southeast Asia region.

“SEAOHWA is more than just an online platform,” said Thura Kyaw, SEAOHUN Regional Program Manager (Knowledge Management). “It’s a space where we build capacity, promote collaboration, and create momentum for a healthier, more resilient future.”

Regional Tour Begins with Laos

Laos marks the first stop in the SEAOHWA on Tour series—a regional rollout of virtual and in-person events designed to introduce the platform country by country. More launches are planned throughout the year, reaching students, professionals, and communities across Southeast Asia.

With the support from USAID, Chevron, and country-level partners like LAOHUN, SEAOHWA is expanding the impact of One Health learning across languages, borders, and disciplines.

For more information and to explore the platform, visit: https://academy.seaohun.org