One Health Global Youth Summit mobilizes young leaders to drive solutions for a healthier future
More than 100 young professionals, researchers, and experts from around the world gathered this week in Nanjing, China for the FAO–Nanjing Agricultural University (NAU) One Health Global Youth Summit, a two-day event aimed at strengthening youth leadership in addressing interconnected challenges across human, animal, plant, and environmental health.
Co-hosted by FAO and NAU, the Summit marks a major milestone in the partnership between the two institutions and highlights the growing global momentum to include youth in One Health decision-making.
Participants engaged in keynote sessions, workshops, roundtables, and student-led presentations covering topics such as zoonotic disease prevention, food safety, digital innovation, sustainable livestock systems, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). A highlight of the event was the launch of the Global One Health Youth Engagement Call for Action, a new initiative calling for stronger youth participation in research, policy, communication, and community-based action.
Opening the Summit via video message, FAO Assistant Director-General, Director of Animal Production and Health Division, and Chief Veterinarian, Thanawat Tiensin, emphasized the essential role of youth in building more resilient agrifood systems:
“We are facing global challenges that no country or sector can solve alone. Young people bring new ideas, new energy, and new leadership. Your contributions—whether in innovation, AMR stewardship, sustainable livestock, or community action—are helping shape a healthier and more sustainable future for all.”
NAU leadership also welcomed participants, with the University’s Vice-President, Yan Zhu, highlighting the importance of international cooperation:
“Today’s young scholars are tomorrow’s global leaders. By working together, we can build One Health solutions that protect people, animals, plants and the environment.”
Participants also shared their experiences and hopes for future collaboration.
For Abu Sayed, young leader from the International Veterinary Students Association (IVSA), the Summit offers an opportunity to convert ideas into action:
"One Health is not just a concept—it’s a shared responsibility and a collective movement. This Summit reaffirms that young scientists have a vital role in shaping global health solutions. By mobilizing our diverse communities and bridging disciplines, we can turn the One Health framework into tangible, lived action.”
Strengthening global networks and innovation
The agenda featured a dedicated roundtable on youth and innovation, bringing together representatives from FAO’s Innovation and Youth and Women offices, international experts, youth representatives, and Chinese universities. The session highlighted opportunities for joint research, digital tools for field surveillance, youth-led AMR awareness campaigns, and pathways to strengthen collaboration.
Looking ahead
As the Summit concluded, participants expressed enthusiasm for future collaboration and ongoing involvement in the new Call for Action. FAO and NAU reaffirmed their commitment to supporting youth networks and strengthening One Health platforms that connect scientific innovation with real-world solutions.
The next steps will focus on expanding international youth participation, developing joint learning opportunities, and supporting national and regional initiatives that translate One Health principles into measurable impact.
