Context
The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant loss of life worldwide, including in Indonesia which became the epicenter of the outbreak in Asia in 2021. Despite decades of investment in pandemic preparedness, the world was not prepared for this pandemic.
As the fourth most populous country in the world, characterized by rich biodiversity across a diverse and complex geography, Indonesia is prone to emerging infectious diseases and zoonotic diseases—diseases that originate from animals—including the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) coronavirus, highly pathogenic avian influenza, and other zoonotic influenza viruses. The COVID-19 pandemic was yet another example of the devastating impact these emerging disease threats pose to the health and stability of communities. It also reinforced the importance of prevention and the necessity for a well-trained and resilient workforce.
USAID recognizes that human resources are critical for disease prevention, rapid detection, effective response, and control of biothreats to enhance global health security. In the workforce, transdisciplinary training, knowledge, and critical thinking are crucial for managing biological risks. The numerous global, regional and in-country health challenges underscore the importance of a multisectoral One Health approach for governments, communities, and professionals.
One Health Workforce - Next Generation (OHW-NG)
To ensure human resources that are equipped to prevent, detect, respond to, and control biothreats, USAID funds the OHW-NG Global Consortium, led by the University of California, Davis and the Southeast Asia One Health University Network (SEAOHUN). In Indonesia, USAID OHW-NG partners with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology and empowers the Indonesia One Health University Network (INDOHUN) to develop and deliver model programs that equip professionals and students with the transdisciplinary skills needed to address emerging infectious diseases.
INDOHUN comprises 32 faculties from 20 member universities across Indonesia and fosters One Health competencies through training and empowerment. These competencies cover multiple areas that define the common understanding of essential knowledge, behavior, and skills necessary to achieve results within the One Health paradigm.
Results
To date, USAID OHW NG implemented by INDOHUN has:
- Supported the establishment of a network of university laboratories in Indonesia to detect human and animal pathogens (zoonotic and other emerging infectious diseases);
- Established six One Health Collaborating Centers across six provinces—university-based centers developed to promote One Health at the local level and strengthen One Health research, academic, and community outreach programs at universities and neighboring institutions; and
- Developed, disseminated, and implemented standardized learning materials and guidance in One Health training for students and government officers.
Contact
Monica Latuihamallo, USAID at mlatuihamallo@usaid.gov
Agus Suwandono, INDOHUN at suwandono@indohun.org
