IPB University Collaborates with WOAH to Prepare Resilient Veterinarians to Face Global Challenges
The School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (SKHB) at IPB University held a general lecture entitled “Building Veterinary Excellence: The Role of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)”, coinciding with the 34th WOAH Asia Pacific Conference in Indonesia.
IPB University Vice Rector for Education and Student Affairs, Prof Deni Noviana, emphasized that this forum was an important opportunity for students to understand the basic competencies that veterinarians must have from the start of their careers (day-one competence).
“Through the visit of the Director General of WOAH, students gained insight into the latest policies and guidelines in the field of global animal health. This is relevant to Indonesia’s efforts to control cross-border diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and zoonoses such as rabies,” explained Prof Deni at the opening of the event at the IPB Dramaga Campus (9/26).
He added that the Indonesian government has taken various strategic steps, such as implementing three-zone biosecurity, mass vaccination, and controlling the use of antibiotics.
“If left unchecked, antimicrobial resistance could become a silent pandemic by 2050. Therefore, veterinary students must be prepared early on with global competencies,” he emphasized.
On this occasion, Dr Emmanuelle Soubeyron, Director General of WOAH, emphasized her organization’s mission to strengthen veterinary services around the world.
“We have 183 member countries, including Indonesia since 1950. To ensure healthy food production, strong, ethical, and educated veterinary services are needed. I am very impressed with the commitment and dynamism of veterinary services in Indonesia, as well as the enthusiasm of students who will become the next generation,” she said.
Dr Soubeyron also appreciated Indonesia’s leadership in organizing the 34th Asia-Pacific Conference, which served as a forum for sharing experiences among countries in overcoming transboundary animal diseases and antimicrobial resistance.
Meanwhile, Dr Nuryani Zainudin, Secretary of the Directorate General of Livestock and Animal Health (PKH) at the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized the importance of standardizing veterinary education in the Asia-Pacific region.
“This meeting not only discussed technical policies, but also investment in the next generation. By harmonizing curricula and competencies, we can prepare veterinarians who are able to face the challenges of animal diseases, respond to food security needs, and contribute to global health,” she explained.
Furthermore, he emphasized that Indonesia continues to innovate its curriculum, expand international partnerships, and promote joint research to support a resilient animal health system. (*/Rz) (IAAS/NRA)
