Viet Nam’s Youth take on antimicrobial resistance

The forum was jointly organized by the Department of Animal Health and Production, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment and Viet Nam National University of Agriculture, with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Viet Nam and funding from UK International Development.

The event brought together diverse partners committed to advancing the One Health approach and empowering youth to act against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

Combating antimicrobial resistance is a shared responsibility

The "Youth in Action Against Antimicrobial Resistance Forum" delivers a powerful and united message: combating antimicrobial resistance is a shared responsibility, and youth engagement is essential to building health systems that are informed, resilient, and rooted in the One Health approach.

AMR occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist antimicrobial treatments, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death.

Experts warn that AMR is no longer a distant threat, it is a present danger to public health, food systems, and the environment that demands immediate and sustained action.

This year's WAAW theme, "Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future" underscores the urgency of cross-sectoral collaboration to safeguard the effectiveness of antimicrobials and protect future generations.

The forum engaged young students with dynamic lineup of activities ranging from panel discussions and a poster design contest to engaging games, all aimed at sparking meaningful conversations and raising AMR awareness among youth.

Participants had the opportunity to learn from leading voices in academia, policy, and development sectors, who emphasized the critical need for responsible antimicrobial use and highlighted the pivotal role young people play in building a healthier, more sustainable future.

Dr. Nguyen Thu Thuy, Deputy Director of the Department of Animal Health and Production, Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, emphasized the importance of youth engagement: "Empowering students to understand and act on AMR is essential. Their energy and innovation can drive behavior change in communities and contribute to sustainable solutions across the agriculture and public health systems. The Department of Animal Health and Production remains fully committed to implementing the National Action Plan on AMR in Agriculture, strengthening surveillance, promoting responsible antimicrobial use, and fostering multi-sectoral collaboration especially by engaging the next generation of leaders in the fight against AMR."

Mr. Vinod Ahuja, FAO Representative in Viet Nam, added: "Young people are key agents of change, and their engagement is essential to building sustainable solutions to antimicrobial resistance. FAO Viet Nam is proud to support this forum by providing communication materials, expert insights, and coordination with national and international partners. This event reflects our broader commitment to strengthening Viet Nam's agrifood systems and promoting responsible antimicrobial use through a One Health approach. By empowering students today, we are investing in a future where health, food safety, and environmental resilience go hand in hand."

British Ambassador to Viet Nam Iain Frew stated: "Antimicrobial resistance is one of the greatest health challenges of our time, and educating the next generation is a crucial component in tackling it. We must collectively disseminate our clear message on the dangers presented by AMR through initiatives such as the excellent session today from FAO, supported by the UK Fleming Fund. I'm pleased that the Government of Viet Nam have consistently demonstrated their full commitment to tackling AMR, and we remain resolute in our shared duty to overcome the material risks AMR presents to human and animal health."

Assoc. Prof. Bui Tran Anh Dao, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at VNUA, shared: "This forum is a powerful example of how students can connect across disciplines and sectors to address AMR. By engaging youth in One Health conversations, we build a generation that understands the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, and is ready to act."

This event also highlighted the importance of Viet Nam's National Action Plan on AMR in Agriculture and One Health approach, which aims to reduce the misuse of antimicrobials in livestock and promote responsible practices across the agricultural sector. A key objective of the plan is to foster meaningful engagement of young people, especially students and early-career professionals in AMR awareness, education, and advocacy./.