Opening International Pathways, Udayana Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Establishes Collaboration with Veterinary Medicine of Central Mindanao University

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FVM) at Udayana University has once again made a new breakthrough in the developing the quality of its studies and research by inviting Veterinary Medicine (Vetmed) of Central Mindanao University (CMU) to discuss on international cooperation in the field of veterinary medicine on Friday, April 26, 2024, The arrival of Vetmed of CMU as guests at FVM Udayana, Kampus Sudirman, Denpasar was well received. 

The agenda of this cooperation activity consists of partnership discussion and a public lecture. The partnership discussion is not the beginning of a mutual relationship between the two parties, but rather an implementation discussion of the discussion of the partnership that has started since the signing of the memorandum of understanding by both parties last year. 

The initiation of this cooperation was initiated by one of the lectures from FVM Unud, drh. I Made Kardena, along with the Vice President of Research, Prof. Alan P. Dargantes, as a collaboration between lecturers. Recognizing the potential of this relationship, both universities agreed to develop this inter-institutional cooperation based on the Inspire scheme (Internship in Research). The partnership discussions was attended by the Deans of the Veterinary Medicine Programs from both universities, the coordinator of the Veterinary Medicine Program at FVM Unud, and a group of professors from Vetmed of CMU to discuss work programs and future plans from both sides.






According to the perspective of Dean Prof. Jose M. Obedencio Jr., internationalization is considered important for CMU as one of the efforts to enhance the quality of the campus in the field of Veterinary education. Moreover, FVM Unud has excellence in the fields of wildlife and aquatic animals, which makes CMU interested in collaborating. Additionally, the endemic aspects and climate similarities between Indonesia and the Philippines serves as another driver for the establishment this international cooperation.

Inter-university is always beneficial . We can learn about the diversity and uniqueness of fauna in each region. Knowledge exchange is always good, and Mindanao University has expertise in the field of livestock and small animals. Although we are also engaged in this fields, we gain broader perspectives and options in addressing issues," explained drh. Tri Komala regarding the benefits of international inter-university cooperation 

The outcome of the discussion between FVM Unud and Vetmed of CMU confirms the plan to conduct joint research, although no specific topics have been set. Additionally, it has been decided to implement teacher and student exchange programs at a later date. The implementation of these exchanges is encouraged to be conducted online to save operational costs and time. However, direct student exchanges are not ruled out, where students and teachers from each university visit the partner university of direct learning or teaching. Thus, both universities hope to enhance expertise in various fields through this collaboration.

 


The partnership discussion agenda was then concluded with a break and casual conversation among the faculty members from both universities. Next, the agenda continued with a Public Lecture delivered by five faculty members from Vetmed of MCU, with each speaker presenting a different topic. The target audience for this Public Lecture was Master’s and Professional Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (PPDH) students at FVM Unud, aimed to provide a better understanding of the perspectives and research results of Vetmed of CMU regarding biosecurity and outbreaks in the Philippines. 

The topics presented in the Public Lecture included "Biosafety and Biosecurity in the context of One Health" by Prof. Jose M. Obedencio, Jr., D.V.M., M.S., Ph.D., "Participation of Women in Farmer Organizations in Indigenous Cultural Communities in Bukidnon, Philippines" by Prof. Hazel Marie R. Boloron, D.V.M., M.S., "Rabies Prevention and Control Strategies in Maramag, Bukidnon, Philippines" by Philip John S. Sajol, D.V.M., M.S., "Awareness, Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (AKAP) on Antimicrobials of Cattle Farmers in Bukidnon, Philippines" by Prof. Maria Lebeña B. Montemayor, D.V.M., M.S., Ph.D., and "Epidemiology of Surra and other Parasites of Water Buffaloes in Northeastern Mindanao, Philippines" by Prof. Alan P. Dargantes, D.V.M., M.T.V.Sc., Ph.D.

The topics presented were very interesting and varied because the discussion of unusual aspects in the field of veterinary medicine has significant impacts on the success of medical applications. The Public Lecture delivered by Vetmed CMU provided new insights into the influence of gender, economics, and even politics in the sustainability of the veterinary work system. One interesting point is the research on the level of education and understanding of farmers education in livestock management. Unlike medical-based research, CMU is able to offer new solutions in addressing farming issues.

 

Concluding the Public Lecture agenda, drh. Tri Komala, M.S., Ph.D., as the moderator, opened a discussion session that filled the room with questions from both faculty members and students.Several faculty members from FVM Unud and Professors from CMU were engaged in discussions about possible etiology of rabies and its prevention methods. However, due to time constraints, the discussion session had to be concluded. The agenda then proceeded with a documentation session, which was the last agenda of Veterinary Cooperation activity. Both universities seemed to have prepared souvenirs for each other as a from of appreciation.

The international collaboration between FVM Unud and Vetmed CMU is expected to align the visions and missions of both parties and achieve the desired progress on the international stage. Consequently, both institutions can become excellent and globally recognized Faculty of Veterinary Medicine.


Author : Mia LPM SS