Veterinary Medicine A Scarce Profession – Prof Ola-Davies

*Says UI Faculty of Veterinary Medicine will continue to shape future landscape of Veterinary education, professional practice in Nigeria

By; BAYO AKAMO, Ibadan

First female Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Prof Olufunke Ola-Davies has emphasized the importance of veterinary medicine in the society

Speaking at the 54th Oath taking and Induction ceremony for new Veterinary graduating students at the University, Prof Ola-Davies said, “Veterinary medicine is a profession that is scarce”

She stressed that the faculty will continue to shape the future landscape of veterinary education and professional practice in Nigeria.

“Veterinary medicine is a profession that is scarce because it is very expensive, and the Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) is doing their best to ensure things are running well”, she said.

Prof Ola-Davies added, “It is my honour to welcome you to the 54th oath-taking and induction ceremony of our faculty in the 61st year of veterinary training at the University of Ibadan,” she said.

Commenting on her four-year tenure, which will officially end on July 31, she acknowledged the challenges she faced but credited her dedicated team for their shared accomplishments.

“I have a lot to tell, but watch out for my book which will detail all the shenanigans that go into preparing to celebrate the culmination of years of hard work, preparing young men and women to be received by the Veterinary Council of Nigeria following six years of rigorous training by competent lecturers, technical and administrative staff in the first and best university.”

Stressing that, “there are challenges, but God has helped us to surmount these challenges,” Prof Ola-Davies said the faculty under her leadership recorded substantial advancements, including the production of 16 professors, 12 associate professors, and numerous faculty members.

“We have sent two individuals for training outside the country, fully funded, and have improved our facilities, including our faculty auditorium, which is now at a high standard,” she added. She celebrated the students’ achievements, particularly noting,

“This session has been award and celebration galore, including winners of the World Veterinary Association Global Vet Award and five students receiving the American Pharmaceutical Company (MSG) award, with each receiving $5,000.”