COTHM Pakistan, in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), is marking One Health Day 2026 under the theme “Healthy People. Healthy Animals. Healthy Environments,” highlighting the importance of a connected approach to human health, animal well-being and environmental sustainability. The FAO delegation was led by Dr. Pawin Padungtod, One Health Team Lead, and included Zia Ur Rehman, Strategic Communications Specialist, and Shahveiz Hassan, Administration Officer.

The initiative aims to raise awareness of the close relationship between people, animals and the ecosystems they share. It reflects the One Health approach, which recognises that health challenges cannot be addressed in isolation and require cooperation across different sectors and communities.

As part of the observance, COTHM Pakistan is organising a Pet Show to bring together animal lovers, pet owners and community members. The activity is intended to promote responsible pet ownership, animal welfare and greater public awareness of the role animals play in healthy communities.

The event also provides an opportunity to encourage conversations about proper pet care, animal well-being and the responsibility people share in protecting the environment. By engaging the community through an interactive activity, COTHM aims to make the One Health concept more accessible and relevant to everyday life.

The collaboration with FAO highlights the importance of connecting education and public awareness with broader efforts to promote healthier and more sustainable communities. The One Health approach is particularly relevant to food safety, public health, animal health and environmental protection, where challenges in one area can affect the others.

For an institution involved in hospitality, culinary and food safety education, the initiative also reinforces the importance of understanding health and sustainability as interconnected responsibilities.

Through One Health Day 2026, COTHM Pakistan is encouraging individuals and communities to recognise their role in protecting people, animals and the environment.

The message is clear: building a healthier future requires collective responsibility, informed choices and cooperation across communities and sectors.