Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) is a global health threat that demands a united front. For AMR Awareness Week, a diverse coalition of student organizations and healthcare providers came together to educate and empower their community. Today, we speak with Aliyu Usman Bello the Lead, Team C.A.R.E, PIH Fellowship, the driving force behind this collaborative effort, to learn how they successfully mobilized multiple groups and made a tangible impact


Overall Collaboration and Impact


How did you initially envision the collaboration between different organizations for this event? What were your primary goals?


We envisioned a collaborative effort between the Antimicrobial Resistance Club, Anti-Drug Misuse and Abuse Club, 100 AMR STEWARDS, Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students, and local healthcare providers. Our primary goals were to educate students and the community about Antimicrobial Resistance, promote responsible antibiotic use, and raise awareness about the dangers of using antibiotics as contraceptives.


What were the biggest challenges you faced in bringing these diverse organizations together, and how did you overcome them?


Coordinating logistics and ensuring all partners were on the same page was a significant challenge. We overcame this through regular communication, meetings, and clear role assignments.


Can you share some specific examples of how the collaboration between these organizations led to unique or impactful initiatives during the week?


The educational workshop was a notable example, where experts from different organizations shared their knowledge and experiences with students, fostering a comprehensive understanding of Antimicrobial Resistance.


How did you ensure that all participating organizations felt valued and contributed meaningfully to the overall goals of the week?


We recognized their contributions, provided feedback opportunities, and fostered open communication to ensure all participating organizations felt valued.


Event Planning and Execution


What was your approach to planning and coordinating the various activities and events that took place during the week?


We set clear objectives, assigned tasks, and established a timeline to ensure a structured and efficient planning process.


How did you divide responsibilities among the different organizations to ensure efficient execution?


We divided responsibilities based on each partner's expertise and resources, ensuring a collaborative and effective execution.


Can you discuss any specific challenges you encountered in the logistics and planning stages, and how you addressed them?


Ensuring timely availability of materials and equipment was a challenge. We addressed this by creating a contingency plan and having backup options.


Were there any unexpected successes or challenges that arose during the week itself? How did you adapt to these?


The high level of engagement and enthusiasm from students and community members was an unexpected success, which we leveraged to further amplify our message.


Communication and Outreach


How did you effectively communicate with all participating organizations throughout the planning and execution process?


Regular meetings, email updates, and social media enabled effective communication among partners.


What strategies did you use to promote the week and engage the public?


We utilized social media, posters, flyers, and partnerships with local schools and healthcare providers to promote the event and engage the public.


How did you measure the success of your outreach efforts?


Surveys, feedback forms, and attendance numbers helped us measure the success of our outreach efforts.


Were there any specific communication tools or platforms that proved particularly effective in fostering collaboration?


Social media platforms were instrumental in promoting the event and engaging stakeholders.


Lessons Learned and Future Collaboration


What key lessons did you learn from this experience that you will apply to future collaborations?


Clear communication and coordination among partners are crucial for successful collaboration.


How do you envision building on the relationships and partnerships formed during this week for future initiatives?


We plan to collaborate on future initiatives, expand outreach efforts, and explore new partnership opportunities.


Are there any specific areas where you would like to see further collaboration or improvement in the future?


Ensuring diverse representation among partners and exploring additional funding sources are areas for improvement.


How do you plan to maintain momentum and sustain the impact of this collaboration beyond the week itself?


Regular follow-up sessions, impact evaluations, and identifying future collaboration opportunities will help maintain momentum.