By Uchenna Ugwu
No Fewer than 90 Veterinary Para- Professional graduates of Ebonyi Veterinary School, Ezzamgbo Ohaukwu, were on Friday enrolled into the animal health industry.
At the official Induction and Oath-Taking ceremony of the graduates, Dr Fadipe Oladotun, Acting Registrar, Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN), tasked the inductees on teamwork.
He said: “It aligns with the global understanding. Veterinary care is a collective effort that required professionals to work together on aspects like disease control, patient care, and food safety for the benefit of both animal and public health.
“Today, the veterinary para-professionals are inducted into the animal health industry to assist as technicians, disease surveillance, vaccinations, preventative care officers among others.
“Induction and oath-taking are significant events because they formalise the importance and responsibility of your service,” Oladotun said.
The Acting Registrar expressed readiness of veterinarians to work with related sectors in the animal health industry.
He revealed that recruitment of more veterinarians was crucial to control high impact diseases, ensure safety of animal products and respond to emergencies.
Oladotun called for improved remuneration and working environment for veterinary professionals in order to significantly boost the livestock sector.
He said,”It’s important for governments to give attention to remuneration, hazard allowance of veterinarian and vets para-professionals to ensure it commiserate, motivate people to participate.”
Also speaking, Director, Veterinary Services, Mr Michael Nwokporo, commended the management and staff of the veterinary school for navigating the institution’s difficulties while continuing to make progress.
Nwokporo said that to practice professionally, officers should develop an attitude of making timely referrals for cases that are beyond their expertise.
“As you join the profession, practice the principle of professional conduct and referrals to reduce quackery. Also avoid under and over medications to reduce scourge of antimicrobial resistance as well,” Nwokporo advised.
The Chairperson of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association in the state, Dr Gloria Magaji, applauded the successful completion of the process and urged the inductees to support and contribute to animal health in their various communities.
The Veterinary School Principal, Dr Augustine Igwe, urged the officers to be committed to the profession and maintain discipline.
Mr Dennis Nwibo, on behalf of other inductees, affirmed their commitment to ethical and professional standards by applying the practice in all situations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured presentation of certificates to the newly inducted officers. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz
