11th January 2025, Phuentsholing: The Department of Livestock, with support from the Pandemic Fund Project, is conducting a six-day refresher training course for field veterinary paraprofessionals from the western and west-central region of Bhutan. This marks the first in a series of refresher training sessions, aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of veterinary paraprofessionals working in the field. The refresher training in other regions shall be organized in coming months.
A total of 68 veterinary paraprofessionals, representing Veterinary Hospitals, Gewog Livestock Extension Centres, and various central agencies and government farms in the region, are attending the training. The sessions are being conducted by experienced veterinarians from the Department of Livestock.
Veterinary paraprofessionals, including technicians and assistants, play a vital role in effective and efficient delivery of animal health services in the country. These professionals provide hands-on support for veterinarians, assisting with the diagnosis and treatment of animal diseases, managing disease prevention and control strategies, and educating animal owners including livestock farmers. Their work spans various settings, including extension centers, district veterinary hospitals, farms, and research facilities.
The rapid advances in veterinary medicine require these professionals to continuously update their skills and acquire new knowledge. Despite the need for ongoing education, funding for professional development has traditionally been scarce, limiting paraprofessionals’ ability to stay current with emerging advances and best practices. With support from the Pandemic Fund Project, this refresher course aims to address these challenges and equip participants to meet the growing demand for animal health services in Bhutan.
This training focuses on both clinical and preventive veterinary medicine, ensuring that field veterinary paraprofessionals are well-prepared to address the dynamic challenges of veterinary medicine and animal health care. The training course covers a wide range of critical topics, including veterinary clinical case management, minor surgical procedures, medicine management, first aid and other commonly encountered field problems.
Practical sessions have been incorporated to provide hands-on skills. By updating participants’ knowledge and skills on modern veterinary techniques and best practices, the Department of Livestock aims to strengthen animal health services, as well as improve the standards and efficiency of service delivery across the country. This initiative will not only contribute to the improvement of animal health services but also help protect public health and strengthen food security in Bhutan.
The Department of Livestock remains committed to capacity building and continuous professional development for field staff, ensuring they are equipped to meet evolving demands in the livestock sector.
