(Hawassa, Ethiopia, 02 March, 2026) - The School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM) at Bahir Dar University participated in a week-long field visit and experience-sharing program organized by Brooke Ethiopia. Hosted by Hawassa University from February 25 to March 2, 2026, the mission brought together academic leaders from five leading Ethiopian universities including Jimma, Wollo, and Haramaya to harmonize best practices in clinical training and animal care. Dr. Yeshwas Ferede and his team represented Bahir Dar University’s School of Veterinary Medicine at this strategic platform, which focused on strengthening Clinical Skills Labs (CSLs), advancing equine welfare initiatives, and fostering inter-university collaboration. During the mission, Dr. Musie H/Melekot contributed to the academic exchange by presenting the overall progress of the project at SVM.

During the program, the delegation engaged in comprehensive field visits and technical exchanges. Key activities included tours of the Halaba project area’s Animal Welfare and Health Center (AWHC) and equine night shelters, as well as an inspection of the Negele Arsi clinic and the newly constructed Mega equine shelter. A significant academic highlight was a seminar on the “Equine Hoof and Shoe Relationship” delivered by Dr. Angus Wiseman, which provided cutting-edge insights into hoof care and stimulated rigorous scientific discussion among the participating scholars.

Strategic breakout sessions enabled the University Deans to deliberate on critical institutional priorities, including integrating animal welfare into the veterinary curriculum and the long-term sustainability of Clinical Skills Labs. These discussions are set to inform Brooke Ethiopia’s upcoming planning cycles and ensure that animal health management frameworks are strengthened across the country. Dr. Yeshwas expressed his sincere appreciation to Brooke Ethiopia’s Program Lead, Dr. Alemayehu Hailemariam, and the host institution, Hawassa University, for their exceptional leadership and hospitality in organizing such an impactful mission.
 

By: Dagmawi Yitbarek, SVM Website Administrator