The World Veterinary Association (WVA) is proud to be part of the “Improving the EDUcation of VETerinary Assistants in Africa Through International Cooperation” (EDUVET) project, funded by the European Union and organised in partnership by the WVA and Hungarian MeOut Group. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance the education of veterinary assistants through updated curricula, hands-on training, and the establishment of sustainable partnerships, in Malawi, Tanzania and Zambia.
On January 23rd and 24th, the project held its kick-off meeting, which featured an opening ceremony attended by distinguished guests, including Bogdan Stefanescu, EU Ambassador to Zambia; Viktor Fülöp, Chargé d’Affaires of the Hungarian Embassy Office in Lusaka; Eng. Himba Cheelo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock; Slaven Grbic, WVA Councillor for Europe, Yvonne Niño, WVA Policy Officer and Attila Sándor, President of the MeOut Group. This gathering brought together key stakeholders, local decision-makers, and international experts, setting the stage for a collaborative effort aimed at achieving the project’s goals.
Slaven Grbic, reflected on the project’s origins, emphasizing the importance of building capacities within the veterinary field and fostering interaction through the exchange of ideas and best practices.
Bogdan Stefanescu highlighted the value of Erasmus+ projects as powerful tools for creating long-term partnerships and sharing knowledge across regions, continents, and cultures.
During the meeting, project partners—including the MeOut Group, Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN), Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) from Malawi, the Livestock Training Agency (LITA) from Tanzania, and the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock (ZIAH) from Zambia—had the opportunity to connect in person, bringing their expertise and knowledge to the table. Together, they laid the groundwork for the project’s successful implementation.
The WVA took the opportunity to meet with its member organisation, the Veterinary Association of Zambia, further strengthening communication and collaboration to ensure that the project aligns with the needs of the local veterinary community providing valuable feedback and ensuring that the perspectives of the veterinary professionals in Zambia are considered and supported throughout the initiative.
The project partners also visited the University of Zambia’s School of Veterinary Medicine, a key highlight of the agenda. We toured their modern facilities and engaged in meaningful discussions with faculty and students involved in advanced veterinary research and education.
The project represents a major step forward in improving veterinary education institutions, and the WVA is excited about the positive impact it will have across the region.
