Saturday, February 15, 2025

UNIJOS Inducts 12 Veterinary Doctors, Highlights Educational Investments

The University of Jos has disclosed that training a single veterinary doctor requires an average investment of 45 million Naira, highlighting the considerable financial commitment necessary to cultivate professionals in this essential field.

This was disclosed by Vice Chancellor Prof. Tanko Ishaya, on Wednesday in Jos during the induction ceremony and third Oath-taking for 12 new veterinary doctors by the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN), under the theme “Veterinary Education and Entrepreneurship: Enhancing Employment and Sustainable Economic Skills.”

Speaking through the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof. Rahila Gowon, Prof. Ishaya noted the significant financial obstacles the university has faced in maintaining educational quality, particularly following public backlash over an increase in school fees from 45,000 to 95,000 Naira.

He stated “If we had not made that increase, we wouldn’t have been able to graduate this class,The cumulative cost of producing these 12 graduates amounts to approximately 540 million Naira, a burden that reflects both the sacrifices made by the institution and the essential value of veterinary education in Nigeria.”

He further commended the resilience of the students and staff who, despite working under difficult conditions, ensured that the graduating class was equipped with the skills necessary to make meaningful contributions to the nation.

“Our colleagues, who have had to work tirelessly under harsh conditions, have produced something tangible—something that will help the nation,” he said.

In addition to the institutional challenges, Prof. Ishaya acknowledged the critical role played by the Plateau State Government, specifically its donation of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, which serves as the primary clinical practice site for the students.

“Without the state’s contribution, training in veterinary medicine wouldn’t have been possible. We look forward to continued collaboration between the State and the University of Jos,” he noted.

The Vice Chancellor also recognized the vital role that parents played in the graduates’ success, thanking them for their sacrifices in supporting their children’s education. Encouraging the newly inducted veterinarians, he urged them to apply their knowledge and values as they enter the workforce, emphasizing their responsibility amidst social challenges.

In her address, AIG Dr. Aishatu Abubakar-Baju, President of the VCN, stressed the importance of upholding high standards within the veterinary profession.

Represented by Dr. Gani Enahoro, former NVMA president, she outlined the three foundational pillars of veterinary practice in Nigeria and highlighted the establishment of the new Ministry of Livestock Development, which promises to enhance opportunities within the field.

“Veterinary practice is not just a vocation; it is a profession. While a vocation may be something you do with a flexible approach, a profession demands knowledge, skills, and adherence to ethical standards.” she emphasized.

Meanwhile, ,Prof. Pwaveno Huladeino Bamaiyi, the Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, celebrated the achievements of the graduates, acknowledging their dedication in overcoming both academic and personal obstacles.

He also noted the importance of empathy, resilience, and the evolving nature of veterinary medicine, urging graduates to commit to continual growth and to engage with their communities positively.

Furthermore, Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, hon. Ishaku Bugama, lauded the vital role of veterinary doctors in safeguarding animal and human health.

He commended the new graduates for their perseverance during their training and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting veterinary education, expressing optimism about future collaborations between the state government and the University of Jos to tackle challenges in the veterinary sector.

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