In the fight against the silent pandemic of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), we once again took center stage during the 2023 World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW). With a commitment to raising awareness and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration, we organized a series of engaging events including an Inter-School Art Competition and Talent Showcase with our DRASA Ambassadors, and a thought-provoking X (formerly, Twitter) Space conversation with a patient advocate and One Health experts.
Inter-School Art Competition:
The canvas of creativity unfolded as six secondary schools from two districts in Lagos State showcased their artistic prowess. The theme of the 2023 WAAW, “One Health as a United Approach to Preventing AMR,” became a catalyst for imagination. Student members of our Health and Hygiene Clubs – our DRASA Ambassadors – collaborated in groups to produce breathtaking artwork with one piece produced per school. The event – which hosted 62 students, 7 focal teachers, and 3 judges – not only promoted artistic expression but also emphasized the importance of a unified front—from the human, animal, and environmental sectors—against AMR. Our panel of judges reviewed their productions using a strict scoring matrix and the student team from Community Senior High School Wasimi emerged as the artistic champions, securing first place.
Talent Showcase:
In a dazzling display of talent, our DRASA Ambassadors presented their understanding of AMR through poetry, songs, and drama. The diverse presentations brought the theme to life, showcasing the multifaceted nature of the battle against supergerms. Apapa Senior High School claimed the top spot with a captivating drama presentation which left a lasting impression on the audience.
To encourage the participants to continue to raise awareness on health and disease prevention, we gave items to the schools and students including art supplies, branded merchandise, and educational materials. Certificates and plaques were awarded to recognize the outstanding efforts of both the Inter-School Art Competition and Talent Showcase participants. These tangible rewards served as a testament to our commitment to nurturing creativity and knowledge.
To see a summary of the time we spent with our DRASA Ambassadors, click here or press the play button to watch the video below.
Twitter Space Conversation:
Harnessing the power of social media, we also hosted an enlightening conversation on Twitter (now called X) Space, titled “Supergerms and the Future of Infections: What Can I Do?” The panel featured esteemed speakers including a patient advocate, a veterinary public health professor, an environmental health professor, and an AMR coordinator from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control. Our live discussion reached 487 listeners, offering insights into the threats posed by AMR and practical steps to combat it.
Our 2023 WAAW activities were indeed a success, as all our participants gained an understanding of the importance of working together using a One Health approach to prevent AMR and how to put this into practice. Our DRASA Ambassadors had an opportunity to express their creativity and innate skills through art and talent competitions and members of the public who joined the conversation on Twitter (X) Space were able to directly engage with and learn from experts in the field.
With these activities, we showcased effective collaboration, creativity, and community engagement. The events not only educated and inspired the participants but also fostered a sense of unity in the global fight against AMR. As we continue to champion public health, the colorful brushstrokes and vibrant performances of this awareness week will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the journey to a world free from the threats of supergerms.
