One Health Education for Children as a Catalyst for Systems Change and Climate Action in Africa

This paper explores the importance of education for children and communities in promoting One Health (OH) principles and fostering a holistic understanding of the interdependencies between humans, animals, ecosystems, and climate change (CC).

Literature on education's role in promoting One Health and climate awareness amongst children was screened.

It highlights the role of networking and system reform in creating an enabling environment for OH education, ensuring collaboration among diverse stakeholders including educators, healthcare professionals, environmentalists, and policymakers. Furthermore, it examines the impact of CC and need for OH approach with emphasis to educate children about the consequences of environmental degradation and climate-related health risks. Through interactive and interdisciplinary educational approaches, children can become accountable to environment and become advocates for sustainable CC mitigation practices. Integrating OH principles into educational curricula equips children to address complex global challenges effectively.

This paper advocates for a comprehensive OH education approach encompassing formal, informal learning, community engagement, and policy support. Empowering children and the public with OH knowledge supports a healthier, more sustainable planetary future.