On the morning of Monday, December 11, an academic activity in the form of a public lecture was held at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FK USU), with the theme “One Health, New Problems, New Solutions.” The guest speaker was Prof. Haro Maat from the Knowledge, Technology, and Innovation Group of Wageningen University, Netherlands.

The event began with a warm welcome from the Dean of FK USU, represented by Dr. Inke Nadia Diniyanti Lubis, M.Ked (Ped)., Sp.A, Ph.D, as Vice Dean III FK USU. The participants came from various levels, including Master’s students, lecturers at FK USU, lecturers from other faculties at USU, and even representatives from the Center for Environmental Health and Disease Control (BTKLPP) Medan. The audience’s enthusiasm was seen from the active participation in the question and answer session moderated by Dr. rer. medic., dr. M. Ichwan, M.Sc, Sp.KKLP, Subsp.FOMC.

In his lecture, Prof. Haro Maat explained that One Health is a holistic approach that understands the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. He detailed how health challenges constantly evolve and require innovative solutions that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries and require collaboration across disciplines.

As part of Prof. Haro Maat’s visit, a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was held led by Dr. Sunna Vyatra Hutagalung, MS, Ph.D (Dr. Sunna). The FGD aimed to gather information on the current health situation in Medan city. With a thorough understanding of the challenges faced, it is expected to explore potential solutions, primarily through research. The plan is to involve students from the Master Program in Tropical Medicine.

To conclude his two-day visit to Medan, Prof. Haro Maat, Dr. Sunna, and his entourage visited the Animal Health Center (Puskeswan) in Deli Serdang, followed by a visit to BTKLPP Medan.