Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria | 23–25 September 2026

Mr Yusuf Tajudeen, Director of Research, Innovation, and Public Health Programs at the Triad Institute for Health Research and Development (TIHRAD), participated as a panelist at the Global STEAM Conference 2026, held at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, from 23 to 25 September 2026.

The conference, themed “Regenerating Futures: STEAM Education for Planetary Health and Equity,” brought together perspectives from different fields to explore the role of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) in addressing interconnected challenges affecting people and the planet.

During the panel discussion, Mr Tajudeen responded to questions on zoonotic diseases, the spillover of pathogens from animals to humans, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and pandemic preparedness. His contributions emphasized the importance of identifying and acting on early warning signals before they escalate into major public health emergencies.

He highlighted that effective preparedness does not always depend on sophisticated technology alone. Rather, timely access to information, effective surveillance systems, and the ability to interpret available evidence and translate it into action are essential to preventing and responding to emerging health threats.

Drawing on his research experience, Mr Tajudeen underscored that indicators of potential public health crises may be present long before an outbreak becomes widely apparent. Recognizing these signals and responding early can strengthen preparedness and help prevent avoidable health emergencies.

He also emphasized the need for stronger collaboration across human, animal, and environmental health systems, consistent with the One Health approach. Such collaboration is essential for detecting emerging threats, strengthening community-level surveillance, and improving collective preparedness for future pandemics.

The discussion further highlighted the importance of investing in communities, scientists, and surveillance infrastructure as part of long-term health security efforts. Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic reinforce the need for coordinated, proactive approaches that move beyond responding to crises towards identifying and addressing risks before they escalate.

Mr Tajudeen’s participation reflects TIHRAD’s commitment to interdisciplinary research, evidence-informed public health interventions, and advocacy that promotes healthier and more resilient communities. Through its work on infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and integrated health approaches, TIHRAD continues to support efforts to address complex public health challenges at the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health.

TIHRAD appreciates the conference organizing committee and the conference chair, Professor Adebayo Shittu, for the opportunity to contribute to this important discussion and engage with experts from diverse disciplines.

About TIHRAD

The Triad Institute for Health Research and Development (TIHRAD) is a youth-led, non-profit organization committed to conducting collaborative, interdisciplinary research and designing advocacy-driven health interventions that foster equitable and sustainable health outcomes across human, animal, and environmental domains.

Through research, public health education, advocacy, and community engagement, TIHRAD works towards a globally informed, resilient, and health-secure world where ecosystems and people flourish in harmony.