[Green Monday Series] What does Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) mean at UEH?

Today, the world has made significant progress in improving public health. However, disparities in healthcare access and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic continue to pose major challenges. In pursuit of SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being, the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) has proactively promoted initiatives that support both physical and mental health, contributing to the development of a sustainable learning environment and holistic well-being. In this week’s Green Monday Series, let us explore UEH’s journey toward building a healthier and happier community.

As of 2023, approximately 133 countries had achieved the target of reducing under-five mortality rates. Effective HIV treatment has helped cut HIV-related deaths by half since 2010, while several neglected tropical diseases have been gradually eliminated in 54 countries by 2024. Nevertheless, inequalities in access to healthcare services, together with the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, have disrupted healthcare systems, reduced vaccination coverage, and contributed to the resurgence of certain diseases. These challenges have widened the gap between populations and regions worldwide.

These issues largely stem from the unequal distribution of resources, limitations in healthcare infrastructure, and disparities in income and awareness among different population groups. In addition, environmental pollution, climate change, and rapid urbanization have increased health risks, while modern lifestyles characterized by high levels of stress, unbalanced nutrition, and physical inactivity have led to the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases. Together, these factors create significant barriers to ensuring comprehensive health and equitable access to healthcare services for all.

In alignment with SDG 3, UEH has implemented a wide range of health promotion programs for both the community and learners. Specifically, nearly 300 community members received voluntary medical examinations and treatment services, while almost 1.000 students benefited from free eye examinations. UEH faculty and staff also participate in regular health check-ups. Furthermore, voluntary blood donation campaigns, student sports activities, and investments in health-supportive infrastructure such as the UEH Green Campus Calories Stairs, hygiene stations at waste-sorting areas, and sports facilities have encouraged healthy lifestyles, promoted physical activity, and improved overall well-being across the university.

At the partnership level, UEH has actively collaborated with local, national, and international healthcare organizations to expand the impact of health promotion programs, blood donation initiatives, and co-organized international conferences on mental health. At the same time, UEH places strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and education related to health behavior, energy, markets, and mental health to provide scientific evidence for sustainable development solutions. Academic programs and majors related to healthcare and well-being at UEH include Hospital Management, Hospital Nutrition Management, Psychology Management, Health Economics, Healthcare Services Marketing, Healthcare System and Healthcare Management, and many others.

In addition, UEH is committed to creating a safe and inclusive learning environment through smoke-free campus policies implemented across 13 campuses and facilities, free psychological counseling services, reproductive health support, and sex education programs. Workshops, talk shows, and experiential activities such as yoga and art therapy are also widely organized, enabling students to access well-being resources more easily. These initiatives not only help reduce stress but also foster a positive and healthy community in both physical and mental dimensions.

Infographic of UEH's contributions to SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being

Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all is a journey that requires strong commitment and collective action. It is a sustainable investment in the future, as healthy people form the foundation of healthy societies and resilient economies. Amid increasingly complex and unpredictable health challenges, timely and decisive action has become more critical than ever. Through continuous efforts in education and community engagement, UEH not only cultivates a healthy learning environment but also contributes to raising awareness and inspiring action toward a healthier, happier, and more sustainable community.

This article is referenced from:

1. UEH Sustainability Report 2024: https://books.ueh.edu.vn/sustainability-report-ueh/ 

2. SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/health/ 

Additional Information:

UEH Green Campus - Green Monday Series is a communication activity series under the UEH Green Campus Project, posted every Monday to start the week with positive energy and encourage a green lifestyle by providing knowledge, updating news, sharing inspiring stories about environmental protection and sustainable development.

News and photos: UEH Green Campus Project