Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin, on Monday, inducted 30 graduates of Veterinary Medicine from the 2022-2023 academic session.
Performing the induction during the sixth induction/oath-taking ceremony, themed “Thriving in the turbulent times: Strategies for Veterinary enterprises to navigate economic challenges and ensure sustainable growth,” in Ilorin, the president of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, AIG Aishatu Abubakar-Baju, represented by Acting Registrar, Dr. Oladotun Fadipe, charged the inductees to remain focused and distance themselves from anything that can soil the profession.
“Veterinary is a noble profession found in every sphere of life. We have vet doctors in every field you can think of. Veterinarians are men of honour. Practice it with dignity and honour.”
The keynote speaker and the managing director of House of Pluto Lagos, Dr Puspa Ramloo, urged the new vet doctors to gain more knowledge and experience before they begin to practice.
“As a graduate, don’t think you know everything. Gain more knowledge and experience. Be open to learning and make mistakes now to avoid bigger mistakes later.
“We, as veterinarians, are not only passionate about our patients and the welfare of animals; we also learn to serve, do the right things, and are ever ready to save lives. My message to the new inductees is to be the future of Nigeria and be the best veterinarians,” Dr Ramloo explained.
Earlier, the vice-chancellor of the university, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), charged the graduates to leverage technology in the discharge of their duties and acquire more practical and soft skills to excel in their chosen profession, saying certification is not enough in today’s world.
Today globally, we have public health issues caused by animals. We have witnessed the outbreak of monkeypox across the world. The question I am leaving you with is: What are you going to do to make a difference? You have been trained and certified in character and learning; how are you going to deploy the learning to positively impact the Nigerian state and the global space?” the Vice Chancellor charged.
In his remarks, the dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Professor Mistura O. Azeez, advised the new doctors to keep pace with new developments in diagnostics, treatments, and policies to remain at the cutting edge of the field.
As veterinarians, you will be entrusted with the health and well-being of animals, many of whom are unable to communicate their needs. Your work will also have significant public health implications. Diseases that affect animals often impact human health, and as veterinarians, you play a vital role in safeguarding communities from zoonotic diseases, ensuring food safety, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.”
As you leave the University of Ilorin and begin your careers, whether in clinical practice, research, public health, or any other field, remember that the learning does not end here. Veterinary medicine is dynamic, and as new technologies and discoveries continue to shape the profession, your commitment to lifelong learning will be essential.”