The event, coordinated by OAZIS Health in collaboration with Vet connect, IVSA Rwanda, Kundwa health and AMR Initiative, highlighted the importance of responsible antimicrobial use and stewardship in the context of the One Health approach.
Welcomed by Dr. Jean Bosco Ntivuguruzwa, acting Deputy Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine representing Nyagatare head of campus. He emphasized the University of Rwanda's commitment to combating AMR by educating future leaders.
"The University of Rwanda is committed to producing future leaders who will drive impactful efforts against antimicrobial resistance. As ambassadors of change, you are called to promote awareness and catalyse meaningful actions within your communities. Your contribution to combat AMR includes raising the awareness in your community regarding the prudent use of antibiotics, respect hygiene practices, and proper waste disposal," said Ntivuguruzwa.
He added that students hold the potential to be at the forefront of innovative solutions to AMR. He encouraged them to maintain a multidisciplinary team work to improve their creativity, acquire interdisciplinary knowledge, and nourish their passion to develop transformative strategies that will shape a healthier future for all.
Dr. Nadia Uwera, a Veterinary Doctor and Public Health Specialist, addressed the students during the workshop, emphasizing on the unique position of veterinary professionals in controlling AMR.
"As future veterinary professionals, you have the power to use and prescribe antimicrobials, you are at the forefront of the One Health approach, bridging animal and human health. So, use that power responsibly to protect the health of animals, human health, and the environment," Uwera said.
She also encouraged the students to embrace best practices in antimicrobial stewardship, stressing the need to move away from outdated habits of irresponsible prescription.
'Fostering a culture of accountability and sustainable healthcare practices is essential for combating AMR,' Uwera added, urging the students to become role models in their communities and fields.
In the same spirit, Dr. Emile Ngabo, the Director of Operations at OAZIS Health, also spoke to the students, stressing the collective responsibility of all health professionals in addressing AMR.
"Antimicrobial resistance is not just a medical or veterinary issue; it is a shared challenge that requires a united front,' he said.
Ngabo stressed that the education students in the campus has a pivotal role to play, the student teachers are essential in promoting responsible antimicrobial use while educating and empowering future generations for a radical behavior change.
The week-long initiative included several activities aimed at raising awareness about AMR.
In addition to the workshop at UR, OAZIS Health launched a media campaign, featuring talk shows on various radio and television stations across the country.
These discussions reached a wide audience, emphasizing the importance of responsible antimicrobial use in both human, plants and veterinary health.
The organization also organized an online campaign that engaged thousands of participants from six countries including Rwanda, Nigeria, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Uganda, reaching over 8,000 people on various online platforms including social media in collaboration with different regional stakeholders.
The campaign was conducted in multiple languages, including English, French, and local languages like Kinyarwanda, and Kiswahili, ensuring that the message about AMR resonated with diverse audiences across Africa.
AMR is a growing global health threat, with the World Health Organization warning that it is one of the top 10 health threats worldwide. In 2019 alone, more than 1.27 million deaths were attributed to drug-resistant infections.
As Rwanda continues to focus on educating the next generation of health professionals, the role of veterinary students in combating AMR is becoming increasingly critical. This year's World AMR awareness week activities were conducted under the theme 'Educate, Advocate, Act Now'
The workshop has strengthened a message that the fight against antimicrobial resistance requires cooperation across sectors and borders, with veterinary, environmental and healthcare professionals working together to ensure responsible use of antimicrobials.
Through initiatives like these, Rwanda is taking significant steps toward a future where AMR is managed effectively, safeguarding both human and animal health for generations to come.
Sam K Nkurunziza
