Celebrating the Success of the ECC Programme: A Leap Forward in One Health

ECC Leadership paying a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor

The Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, under the esteemed leadership of Chair Dr. Marianne Mureithi, in collaboration with the KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research, proudly hosted the Early Career Champions (ECC) programme from January 29th to February 2nd. This innovative initiative marks a significant milestone in the journey towards integrating One Health principles into the fabric of global health research and policy.

The ECC programme, designed to nurture the next generation of One Health professionals, convened an impressive assembly of early career researchers, practitioners, and policy advocates. Over the course of five days, participants engaged in a series of workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions aimed at fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Programme Highlights

The event kicked off with a welcoming address by Dr. Marianne Mureithi, setting the tone for a week of intensive learning and networking. Participants had the unique opportunity to delve into a range of topics critical to the One Health approach, including infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, zoonoses, and environmental health challenges.

Key features of the programme included:

  • Expert-led Workshops: Facilitated by leading figures in the field, these workshops offered hands-on experience in the latest research methodologies and technologies.
  • Interdisciplinary Panel Discussions: Panels brought together experts from diverse backgrounds to discuss the challenges and opportunities in implementing One Health strategies globally.
  • Networking Opportunities: The programme provided a platform for participants to connect with peers and established professionals, fostering a supportive community of One Health advocates.
  • Innovative Research Presentations: Early career champions showcased their research, receiving valuable feedback from peers and mentors.

A Step Towards a Healthier World

The ECC programme exemplifies the commitment of the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology and the KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research to advancing One Health education and practice. By equipping early career professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle complex health challenges, the programme contributes to the creation of a more resilient and integrated global health system.

Dr. Marianne Mureithi expressed her optimism about the impact of the programme, stating, "The enthusiasm and innovative ideas brought forth by the participants are a testament to the bright future of One Health. We are proud to be part of this transformative journey."

As the ECC programme concludes, the seeds of collaboration and innovation have been sown, promising to yield significant advancements in One Health research and policy. The Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology and the KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research look forward to continuing their support for early career champions, empowering them to become leaders in creating a healthier, more equitable world.

For more information on the ECC programme and future initiatives, please visit Department of Medical Microbiology,  KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research and University of Helsinki - One Health ECC Program. To see more images from this programme click here