A brief history of our project

Rwandan scientist, Mediatrice Akin-OJO, had a vision--a vision of a bright future for the world where humans, animals, plants and their environment could sustain wellness and thrive. In 2018 she found mentorship from Dr. Katey Pelican at the University of Minnesota through Dr. Hellen Amuguni, the P.I. of a One Health fellowship program sponsored by the Cummings Foundation in partnership with Tufts University in Massachusetts, USA and the University of Global Health Equity in Kigali, Rwanda. While participating in One Health training, she met a mentor from the One Health program, Dr. Jeanine Went, an educator by training. Years later, Mediatrice shared her idea with Dr. Went and a collaboration ensued to develop One Health for Kids: a club where primary and secondary students can learn about one health concepts and issues, and be empowered to change their lives, their communities, and their world for the better. Dr. Anselme Shyaka, a veterinarian and professor at UGHE, joined forces with Media and Dr. Went to establish the program. This project was intended to start small, and expand to encompass more school communities each year. Through the gracious donation of the Cummings Foundation with sponsorship by P.I., Dr. Hellen Amugini, funding has been secured through the end of this fiscal year.