Today, the right to health care and protection of millions of people worldwide is being affected by various factors such as pandemics, natural disasters, conflicts, air and water pollution, etc. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) report in 2021, at least 4.5 billion people (more than half of the world's population) do not have access to essential healthcare services.

Therefore, the theme of World Health Day 2024: "My Health, My Right" is chosen to promote the protection of everyone's right to access quality health services, education, and information, as well as safe drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing, decent working and environmental conditions, and freedom from discrimination.

Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

World Health Day is celebrated on April 7th every year, under the sponsorship of the World Health Organization (WHO). It's a day for WHO to advocate and link communities with health messages.

Vietnam's Movement

According to statistics, currently, at least 140 countries recognize health as a human right in their constitutions, including Vietnam. Article 38 of the Vietnamese Constitution in 2013 stipulates: "Everyone has the right to be protected and cared for in terms of health, equal in the use of medical services, and has the obligation to comply with regulations on disease prevention, medical examination, and treatment. Threatening the lives and health of others and the community is strictly prohibited."

Promoting Comprehensive Healthcare for Students at Ho Chi Minh City Open University

Health, including both physical and mental health, plays a crucial role in the success of students' academic and personal lives. Recognizing this importance, Ho Chi Minh City Open University is always at the forefront of implementing programs and services to support comprehensive healthcare for students.

Ho Chi Minh City Open University is committed to improving physical health for students. Sports activities are promoted with prominent events such as the "Student Traditional Sports Festival" held biennially and the annual event "The Open Run," attracting a large number of participants. A diverse range of sports clubs such as the OU Basketball Club, Martial Arts Club, etc., provide beneficial platforms for students to socialize, develop skills, and pursue their passions.

The Open Run 2023

HCMC Open University Basketball Team participated in VUG9-2023 competition

In addition to physical health, enhancing mental health for students is also emphasized at the University. Therefore, Ho Chi Minh City Open University has established a Psychological Counseling Office, accompanying students on their knowledge acquisition journey.

Introduction event of the Psychological Counseling Office - Ho Chi Minh City Open University

With the motto "Listen - Share - Accompany", psychological experts, who are also knowledgeable and experienced lecturers, understand and regularly interact with students, always ready to listen, share, and support students in resolving psychological issues in various areas such as:

- Psychological counseling: addressing issues related to friendship, love, marriage and family, helping students overcome difficult stages in life.

- Study skills: providing effective learning methods, helping students optimize their learning abilities and achieve high results.

- Career guidance: providing appropriate career orientation based on capabilities, interests, and personal conditions, helping students confidently step into the future.

- Reproductive and gender health: providing knowledge and skills necessary for students to have a healthy, safe, and happy life.

Furthermore, the University organizes many programs and free psychological counseling seminars to equip students with additional knowledge and skills to address psychological issues, while also connecting students and creating a friendly, open learning environment.

Program "Exploring the Optimism Within You" which was held on March 30th, attracted many students' participation by MA.TranThi Thanh Tra - Psychology Lecturer, Faculty of Sociology-Social Work-South East Asian Studies

Ho Chi Minh City Open University is committed to creating a safe, healthy learning environment, supporting students' comprehensive development in terms of physical, mental, and intellectual aspects. Let's join hands to respond to the theme "My Health, My Right" by taking care of our own health and spreading this message to the community.