Dr. Jude Kong, the Canadian Research Chair in Community-Oriented Artificial Intelligence and Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Disease at the University of Toronto, highlights the importance of engaging local communities in animal health and welfare strategies. Speaking at Animal Health Canada’s 2024 Forum, which focused on “Coordination, Collaboration, Communication,” Dr. Kong emphasized that building community involvement is essential for gaining support for welfare initiatives.
“Too often, communities are overlooked,” Dr. Kong explained. “For real progress, it’s essential to work collaboratively with farmers, researchers, organizations, and government agencies. By co-creating solutions with these communities, we ensure they have ownership and a stake in the outcomes.”
Dr. Kong underscored the importance of proactive, real-time scientific solutions that can alert policymakers when issues arise. However, without community participation, he warns, these solutions may struggle to gain acceptance.
“We can’t just impose solutions on communities,” said Dr. Kong. “When they help create these strategies, they become invested in their success.”
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