The One Health Platform and MSD in Spain are launching an innovative and pioneering initiative to bring the ‘One Health’ approach closer to universities
Universities interested in joining the 'One University, One Health' initiative are warmly welcome. The current members include the following members: Jaume I University of Castellón, UCAM of Murcia, European University of Madrid, University of Zaragoza, and University of Valladolid.
The One Health Platform and MSD in Spain, with the support of the Conference of Rectors of Spanish Universities (CRUE), have launched the initiative ‘One University, One Health’. This pioneering project aims to raise awareness and disseminate the ‘One Health’ approach to increase knowledge of the concept, sow the seeds of the multidisciplinary approach in both teaching staff and students, and recognise the actions of students who incorporate this perspective by working collaboratively on healthcare issues.
This initiative will culminate in the One Health National Award, which, depending on the profiles of the winners, will include a training opportunity at the MSD biopharmaceutical laboratory in Spain, whenever possible.
The prize will be awarded to the best Final Degree Project focused on aspects that, in one way or another, intervene in health, seeking a positive impact on the health of people, animals and the environment, in the academic years 2023/24 and 2024/25.
Cristina Nadal, the Executive Director of Government Affairs at MSD in Spain, emphasizes that "introducing the ‘One Health’ concept to universities is essential for new generations to understand and internalize the interconnectedness and impact that nearly all professional fields have on health in its broadest sense. We believe that the One University, One Health initiative will significantly contribute to the professional development of the awardees, offering them fresh perspectives and opportunities for their careers. Now more than ever, it is crucial for younger generations to recognize this interconnectedness and the importance of enhancing multi-sectoral and collaborative efforts."