(Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, 2–4 May, 2026) - The School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM) at Bahir Dar University has successfully concluded its First National Research Conference and Veterinary Education Forum Deans’ Council Meeting. Themed around the critical intersection of animal welfare, education, and global health, the event brought together a prestigious assembly of government officials, international researchers, and academic leaders to chart a sustainable pathway for Ethiopia’s veterinary sector.

The conference began with a brief program introduction by Dr. Shewatatek Melaku, Vice Dean of the SVM. Dr. Shewatatek, the lead architect of the event’s coordination, emphasized that the program was designed to move beyond traditional academic sharing toward outcome-based results that influence policy and education.

The Opening Address was delivered by Dr. Yeshwas Ferede, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Yeshwas articulated a bold vision for the school, positioning the inaugural conference as a milestone in the SVM’s journey toward international excellence in the presence of internationally renowned guests

The conference was officially welcomed by Dr. Mengesha Ayene, President of Bahir Dar University, who emphasized the university's commitment to research that solves communal challenges. The event was formally opened by Mrs. Tsigereda Fekadu, Advisor to the State Minister for Livestock and Fisheries, followed by an inspiring keynote address from Dr. Solomon Hailemariam, a founding member and former president of the Ethiopian Veterinary Association (EVA).

The conference was structured around three pivotal thematic pillars. The first session focused on Sustainable Livestock Systems, where Dr. Berhanu Admasu (Founder & CEO of Climate Smart Livestock) and Dr. Aynalem Haile (Principal Scientist at ICARDA) shared critical insights on sustainable livestock production. Moderated by Dr. Workneh Ayalew (Senior Scientist at ICIPE), the panel explored the urgent need for climate resilience and systems thinking within the livestock sector to ensure long-term sustainability and food security.

The dialogue then shifted to the academic foundation of the profession with a session titled Veterinary Education in the 21st Century. Featuring Dr. Alemayehu Hailemariam (Program Lead at Brooke Ethiopia) and Dr. Gizachew Yonas (Senior Academic Accreditation Expert at ETA), the discussion was expertly moderated by Dr. Kassaye Aragaw of Hawassa University. The participants addressed the essential modernization of curricula and the rigorous academic accreditation standards required to prepare the next generation of veterinarians for a changing global landscape.

Finally, the critical intersection of human and animal medicine was addressed in the Global Health Security session. This powerhouse panel included Prof. Hellen Amuguni from Tufts University, Dr. Desalegne Mengesha of Ohio State University’s GOHI, and Mr. Belay Bezabih, Director General of the Amhara Public Health Institute. Under the moderation of Dr. Berihu Gebrekidan, a Senior Global Health Security Advisor at Tufts University, the experts delved into zoonotic disease prevention and the strategic implementation of One Health frameworks to protect public health both locally and globally.

Another event was the official inauguration of the Animal Welfare and Health Center, a joint venture with Brooke Ethiopia. Inaugurated in the presence of Country Director Mr. Yohannes Kasim, the center stands as a testament to SVM’s dedication to animal care and community service.

Guests were also treated to a showcase in the Clinical Skills Laboratory, where students presented innovative animal models. These student-led demonstrations attracted high praise from visiting industry partners and development agencies, highlighting the practical, hands-on excellence of BDU’s veterinary program.

The conference served as a historic meeting ground for the Veterinary Education Forum, welcoming the leadership of the Ethiopian Veterinary Association (EVA), Dr. Bojia Endebu (President) and Prof. Endris Zewdu (CEO), alongside Deans from more than 20 veterinary colleges across Ethiopia.

Dr. Yeshwas emphasized that the conference’s rich discussions and research findings will be synthesized into policy briefs for government strategy, curriculum enhancements for 21st-century challenges, and future research projects focused on food security and One Health integration. He extends his deepest gratitude to the university leadership, the organizing committee, and our international and local partners.

As the conference concluded with closing remarks from Prof. Enyew Adgo, Vice President for Research and Community Engagement at BDU, the focus shifted toward the future.

Together, we have set a new standard for veterinary research and education in Ethiopia.
 

By: Dr. Dagmawi Yitbarek, SVM Website Administrator