The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in close cooperation with the Tajik Veterinary Association provides 10-day courses on comprehensive professional development to veterinary practitioners throughout the country.
According to FAO Tajikistan, this activity is part of an FAO project aimed at supporting the Ministry of Agriculture and the State Veterinary Inspection Service for improved policy formulation, and funded by the European Union.
The program should widen the knowledge of vet practitioners in their professional area, and provide them the skills and tools needed for preventing, detecting and responding rapidly and effectively to animal diseases. For this reason, courses play a critical role in skilling future specialists in the veterinary sector in Tajikistan.
“It is key in improving veterinary education to ensure the community’s recognition of the veterinary services’ value,” highlighted Mahmadnazar Kashkuloyev, chairperson of the Tajik Veterinary Association. “People count on the quality of veterinary services ensuring animal welfare and food safety.”
From August until October, four courses for altogether 50 young veterinary practitioners will run. The courses are composed of theoretical and practical parts that latter will take place in clinics and on farms.
“Livestock is very valuable for Tajik families, particularly in rural areas. Therefore expectations of the communities are very high and diverse at the same time,” said Jamshedbek Qaraboyev, a vet specialist from Shahritous district. “Through the opportunity to attend this course I will gain new knowledge and skills that will improve the service I’m delivering in this field.”
Upon completion of the courses qualified practitioners will receive start-up kits that consist of special clothing and veterinary tools for working with local communities in rural areas of Tajikistan.
