UNAIR NEWS – Today, universities no longer serve only as centers of education but are transforming into ecosystems responsible for the health and well-being of communities. This urgency emerged at the international conference SDGs Connect: AUN-HPN, 11th IAC Meeting & 5th Health Promotion International Conference 2026. The event, which served as a platform for strengthening cross-border collaboration in Asia, took place on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at the Garuda Mukti Hall, UNAIR MERR-C Campus Management Office.
Partners of Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), namely the ASEAN University Network-Health Promotion Network (AUN-HPN) and Mahidol University, had the opportunity to deliver remarks at the event. The AUN-HPN delegation was represented by Prof. Thanapan Laiprakobsup, Executive Director of AUN-HPN. Meanwhile, Mahidol University President Prof. Piyamitr Sritara delivered remarks online on behalf of the university.
One Health approach as health promotion strategy
The President of Mahidol University, Prof Piyamitr Sritara MD FRCP, delivered a speech on Mahidol University’s health promotion strategy based on the One Health approach. This approach connects human, animal, and environmental health as a single, integrated whole. According to him, the university takes an active role in integrating the One Health approach into its curriculum, research, innovation, and institutional governance.
“Together, we have the opportunity to transform our campus into a living health promotion laboratory and a catalyst for positive change throughout Asia and beyond,” he said.
He also emphasized that living laboratories are not only beneficial within the university but also extend to the regional (Asian) and global levels. Therefore, strong partnerships and a shared commitment are crucial elements for creating a healthier university in the future.
Real action toward achieving SDG 3
In line with Prof. Sritara, Prof Dr Thanapan Laiprakobsup, Executive Director of AUN-HPN, stated that the Healthy University framework and assessment system have become an important guideline for institutions in measuring progress and identifying areas for improvement. This reflects the needs of every student and staff member who requires access to health and well-being services.
“That’s why our responsibility extends to campus policies, mental health support, healthy lifestyles, and inclusive access to services,” he said.
In addition to realizing health and well-being from the campus to the global level, this forum also contributes directly to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. Meetings, conference sessions, and global collaboration forums also provide opportunities to exchange experiences and explore future partnerships. “I hope these discussions will generate practical ideas that universities can adapt to their own needs and resources,” he concluded.
Author: Amelia Farah P.I
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
