Testimonials
Thematic areas like One Health are as much about managing people and fostering collaboration as they are about addressing scientific challenges. BeST is doing phenomenal work in this space by bringing together diverse stakeholders from multiple sectors. Their initiative to create a One Health Cell in collaboration with BBMP is a remarkable step towards coordinated action, especially in pandemic preparedness. Through capacity-building programs such as student workshops and training for government officials, facilitated with the support of various partners, BeST is setting a stellar example of how to bridge gaps and build resilience. Their Dengue program, which integrates technological innovation, citizen science, and rigorous engagement with local communities, stands as a benchmark in applying the One Health approach to tackle complex public health challenges. I hope BeST continues to lead the way with more such impactful programs, inspiring others to adopt and expand the One Health framework for a healthier, more sustainable future.
I would like to appreciate BeST for their support to the Sector Connect Field Epidemiology Programme in One Health (FEPOH). Their proactive approach in bringing together stakeholders from Public health, Animal husbandry, Forest department, and other related domains were helpful for the success of the training, and by this the true essence of the One Health Approach was achieved. The ability of BeST to unite various sectors and experts under a common mission not only helped to strengthen surveillance and outbreak response but also for long-term sustainability of health initiatives. This commitment to fostering intersectoral collaboration is truly commendable, and I look forward to continued collaboration in the future.
As the Special Commissioner (Health and Welfare) of BBMP, I am delighted to share the significant impact that BeST (Bengaluru Science and Technology) has had on our public health initiatives. BeST has been instrumental in supporting our Dengue Warrior Program, ASHA Worker Training Program, Field Epidemiologists Training Program for our officers from Animal Husbandry, One Health cells formation, and hands-on training on molecular approaches for Health Officers. These programs have been pivotal in enhancing skills in our city’s health officials and response capabilities. The Dengue Warrior Program has empowered our community with the knowledge and tools needed to combat dengue effectively, leading to marked improvements in finding breeding spots, early detection, management, and source reduction in our city. The ASHA Worker Training Program has strengthened our grassroots health workforce, resulting in substantial improvements in community health outcomes. The Field Epidemiologists Training Program, conducted by BeST along with NCDC and IISC for our officers from Animal Husbandry, has been crucial in bridging the gap between human and animal health, enabling better management of zoonotic diseases. Additionally, the Hands-on Training on Molecular Approaches for Health Officers has enhanced the capabilities of our health officers and technicians, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle a wide range of health issues. The formation of One Health cells with the BeST Cluster addresses public health challenges in a comprehensive and integrated approach, focusing on improving health across the Bangalore metro city. With the growing complexity of One Health initiatives, there is an urgent need to improve coordination and facilitate real-time information sharing among stakeholders. These programs perfectly align with the One Health mandate, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. By fostering collaboration across different sectors, BeST has helped us create a more resilient and responsive health system. We are grateful for their unwavering support and look forward to continuing our partnership to safeguard the health of our community.
I sincerely appreciate BeST’s invaluable support for the Sector Connect Field Epidemiology Programme in One Health (FEPOH). BeST’s proactive efforts in bringing together stakeholders from public health, animal husbandry, the forest department, and other related sectors were instrumental in the success of the training. Through this initiative, the true essence of the One Health approach was effectively realized. BeST has also played a pivotal role in facilitating the formation of the BBMP One Health Cell, serving as a key enabler by aligning the efforts of multiple departments under a unified framework.
My experience working with BeST Cluster is very good and fruitful. BeST cluster is a bridge in the “One Health” initiative to bring all the sectors together and integrate human, animal, and environmental health sectors to combat diseases and prepare for pandemics, enhancing surveillance and strengthening capabilities across these sectors. BeST Cluster has taken up a very novel initiative to organize the SECTORCONNECT program to impart training and capacity building to human, animal, and other sectors in disease epidemiology and outbreak investigation through a one-health approach. As a mentor in Sectorconnect-FETP, I have gained good knowledge and skills in understanding One Health concepts. The Impact on my research work was profound, as I was working in only animal health aspects, but now, after partnering with the BeST cluster, I could connect my research concepts with humans, the environment, wildlife, and many other sectors. My suggestion to BeST Cluster is that more multisectoral capacity-building programs and projects may be initiated with funding support.
As the Director of Karnataka State Animal Husbandry, I am pleased to highlight the significant impact that BeST (Bengaluru Science and Technology) Cluster has had on our public efforts. BeST has played a key role in supporting the Field Epidemiologists Training Program, in collaboration with NCDC and IISc, for officers from Animal Husbandry and other departments. This initiative has been essential in bridging the gap between human, environment and animal health, allowing our officers to gain a deeper understanding and better management of emerging infectious diseases. We are thankful for their steadfast support and look forward to continuing partnership to protect the health of our community.