Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a silent pandemic, threatening global health and making common infections untreatable. But a new, dynamic partnership is rising to meet this challenge head-on, focusing on the power of youth. The One Health and Development Initiative (OHDI) and the AMR Intervarsity Training Program (AMRITP) are joining forces to amplify youth-led efforts against superbugs through the Stop Superbugs Squad (SSS).
Who Are the Driving Forces?
One Health and Development Initiative (OHDI) is a global non-profit dedicated to the One Health approach, integrating human, animal, and environmental health. OHDI tackles critical public health issues like zoonotic diseases, AMR, and global health security through community programs, research, technology, advocacy, and media.
The AMR Intervarsity Training Program (AMRITP) is a youth-focused initiative building the capacity of young people to fight AMR. With support from organizations like the Foundation to Prevent Antibiotic Resistance and the British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, AMRITP has successfully established AMR clubs in 38 tertiary institutions across Nigeria, reaching over 65% of the country.
At the heart of this collaboration is the Stop Superbugs Squad (SSS). This OHDI-supported initiative brings together exceptional young professionals committed to nurturing the next generation of AMR stewards. SSS empowers young people to become informed advocates, responsible antibiotic users, and active champions of AMR awareness through intensive capacity-building and technical support.
Why This Partnership Matters: Scaling Youth-Led Action
The core purpose of this collaboration is to solidify and expand the SSS model into a sustainable, youth-led movement for AMR awareness, stewardship, and advocacy across Africa. This means:
- Sustaining Impact: Ensuring the vital work of the Stop Superbugs Squad continues beyond initial funding.
- Amplifying Voices: Using OHDI’s platforms to give a louder voice to youth initiatives on AMR.
- Community Outreach: Expanding efforts to educate schools and communities on responsible antibiotic use.
- Innovative Programs: Co-developing new learning, advocacy, and communication programs for AMR.
- Sustainable Model: Creating a lasting framework for youth-led AMR action, rooted in One Health principles.
The Scope of Collaboration: Working Together Against AMR
Through the Stop Superbugs Squad, OHDI and AMRITP will collaborate on several key areas:
- Campaigns: Sustaining and designing impactful AMR awareness and stewardship campaigns, including the WASH Off AMR campaign.
- Capacity Building: Supporting training for young AMR advocates.
- Knowledge Sharing: Co-branding and disseminating educational materials and advocacy resources.
- Opportunities: Facilitating internships, volunteering, and fellowship opportunities for youth within OHDI programs.
- Monitoring & Evaluation: Tracking and assessing the effectiveness of youth-led AMR engagement.
- Reporting: Developing and sharing joint reports, case studies, and evidence of youth-led AMR action.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in the fight against Antimicrobial Resistance, harnessing the energy and innovation of young people to create a healthier future for Africa and beyond Africa.
