Going the extra mile for humans, animals and nature

“The connection between animals and humans is reciprocal. Humans must take better care of the environment and animals if they want better health for themselves,” says Monica Chan, a student at The Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences at the City University of Hong Kong. The close contact Monica has had with animals in the past few years has left a mark on her and shaped her views on life.

In recent years, the concept of One Health has been gaining traction around the world. It is the idea that human and animal health are interdependent. It calls for a collaborative approach to combat zoonoses, which are diseases that spread between animals and humans, as well as improve food safety and animal welfare.

To promote One Health and sustainable development, The Hong Kong Jockey Club funded the City University of Hong Kong in 2017 to build the Jockey Club One Health Tower. The new building will serve as the research and training hub of The Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences.

Through her studies, Monica has gained a deeper understanding of One Health and the interconnectedness of all life forms. "As we provide veterinary care to animals, we are also promoting human health and the ecosystems around us. We need to see the bigger picture,” Monica says. “For example, there have been many zoonoses in recent years. It is important that we understand and research these diseases.” Looking ahead, Monica hopes to pursue further studies in zoonoses. She is also excited about the upcoming launch of the Jockey Club One Health Tower, where she can receive both academic and clinical training.

The decision to join the veterinary profession was not an easy one for Monica. A top student in the local university entrance exams, she initially thought of applying to medical schools as other elite students do. However, she found the courage to walk a different path, choosing to develop a career around her beloved animals.