TDR and partners have developed a French-language massive open online course (MOOC) on a One Health approach to implementation research (IR) to address infectious diseases of poverty.
In response to rising public health threats exacerbated by climate change, urbanization and the growing interface between human, animal and environmental systems, the need for collaborative and context-sensitive research approaches is urgent. Challenged health systems —particularly in Francophone West and Central Africa—have also faced limited capacity for conducting implementation research with a One Health lens. This can hinder the ability to develop effective multisectoral and inclusive responses to infectious diseases.
TDR has been working with the International Development Research Centre of Canada (IDRC) to address this challenge. Notably, a French-language MOOC focused on implementation research and a One Health approach has been co-created by Université Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD) in Senegal and TDR, drawing on regional expertise and institutions across the sub-region.
The MOOC includes six chapters addressing the theory and practical application of implementation research on One Health. Topics include zoonotic disease control, environmental health, and the importance of stakeholder engagement applying inclusive intersectional gender perspectives. Through high-quality videos, case studies and interactive tools, the course empowers health professionals, program implementers and decision-makers with the knowledge and skills to address One Health approaches in IR to support regional health priorities.
Course development was accompanied by support for four Master of Public Health students enrolled at UCAD. These students—hailing from Guinea, Mali, Senegal and Burkina Faso—are each conducting implementation research projects rooted in local health needs. With academic supervision from UCAD and mentorship from Université Nazi Boni in Burkina Faso, the programme fosters leadership in equity-oriented One Health research.
To officially launch the MOOC, a joint TDR-IDRC webinar will be held on 10 June 2025. Featuring expert speakers and regional voices, the event will raise awareness about the course and promote its use among researchers, policy-makers and programme managers.
This initiative reflects IDRC's strategic priorities: investing in high-quality research, sharing knowledge for impact and building alliances across sectors and borders. It also demonstrates the power of implementation research to create sustainable, inclusive health solutions.
For more information, please contact Dr Anna Thorson.