Breaking Barriers, Forging Knowledge

The University of Pretoria One Health (UPOH) network was initiated in 2020 to respond to the current COVID-19 pandemic and in partnership with UNICEF’s Humanitarian Programme through its flagship programme called “Generation Unlimited”. This initiative is part of Future Africa and specifically the “One Health” cluster activities and focus area.

The network was initiated from within the University of Pretoria with the short-term objective to establish a network of scientists from different faculties within the University. The theme ‘Breaking Barriers, Forging Knowledge’ alludes to our goal to break down the barriers caused by ‘silos’ between different disciplines and forge (build) new knowledge. A holistic ‘One Health’ approach promotes a much-needed understanding of the inter-relationships between human, animal, and environmental health.

In light of our theme, the network’s scope is inclusive and expansion-driven. We seek to expand within the University, between institutions, and across geographical borders. There is a strong focus on capacity building on the African continent and youth empowerment.

Prof. Wanda Markotter (UP-OHC cluster lead)