UAEU Offers the First Bachelor in Veterinary Medicine in UAE
The rising importance of veterinary medicine has resulted in the launch of a new Bachelors Program in Veterinary Medicine at the College of Food and Agriculture, United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). This program was approved at the last University Council meeting, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Chancellor of UAEU and will be the first bachelors program of this kind in the UAE.
This five year degree will include intensive practical and theoretical courses for students enrolled in the program. Graduates from this veterinary program will have similar qualifications to graduates from distinguished international veterinary programs, and at the same time graduates from this program will be able to work and deal with animal health issues related to the region in general and the UAE in particular.
Dr. Ali Rashid Al Noaimi, UAEU Vice Chancellor, said "Following the directives of H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mubarak Al Nahayan which was approved at the last University Council meeting, this unique and first of its kind program was launched to meet the needs of job market in UAE. The Veterinary Bachelor program is of particular importance because, the health of animals is directly related to food safety and the health of all human beings, which is of utmost importance to the Nation. Due to the importance of animal resources in UAE, particularly horses, camels, and falcons in tourism and sport; thus offering such program will support the cooperation among the organizations related to this liveable sector. Collaboration between different agencies like HCT and the UAEU in academia, the blessing and support of the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, and the Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority to provide vital training for candidates, demonstrates that successful collaboration efforts can better serve the Nation.”
Prof. Mohamed Yousif Baniyas, UAEU Provost, commented "The program will be established with the support of the Ministry of Presidential Affairs and Ministry of Environment and Water and Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA). It has been agreed with ADFCA to open their clinics and animal hospitals for internships and training of students enrolled in the program."
Prof. Ghaleb Alhadrami, Dean of the College of Food and Agriculture, UAEU, said "There is no doubt that establishing such a program will contribute to preserve human health, improve livestock performance and the lifespan of sports animals, companion animals and wildlife in the UAE. The veterinary program will contribute effectively in providing a qualified national workforce. Even though there are more than 400 Veterinarians in the country, very few of them are nationals. It is a significant addition to extensive range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs already offered by UAEU.”
"Graduates of this Veterinary Medicine program can go on to practice veterinary medicine and care for pet animals, livestock, horses and poultry. Other occupations open to graduates include veterinary research, the provision of regulatory veterinary services, food and hygiene inspection and regulation in municipalities and food production, promotion of animal welfare, and veterinary care and management of wildlife.” Prof. Alhadrami added.
