USK Hosted International Wildlife Training Course
Wildlife Ambulance of Wildlife Studies Center (Pusat Kajian Satwa Liar) of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), organized the Wildlife Veterinary Training Course 2024. This extensive training program, scheduled on 3-23 June 2024, and will conclude with a four-month internship.
This initiative is a collaboration between Universitas Syiah Kuala and the University of Zurich’s Veterinary Faculties Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets, and Wildlife. The course is attended by 20 final-year veterinary students, interns, and recent graduates.
The training aims to equip future veterinarians with essential knowledge of wildlife conservation and best practices for professional development. The program features both national and international guest lecturers, including Drh. Purba, Drh. Yenny Saraswati, Drh. Ricko, Dr. Christopher Reinhard Stremme, Dr. Loes Schure, Prof. Jean Michel Hatt, Dr. Janipa, and Prof. M. Kummrow, and others.
This year’s training is structured around specific modules, covering topics such as Primate Medicine, Sea Turtle and Stranded Marine Wildlife Medicine, and practical internships. Additionally, the program collaborates with various organizations, including the Conservatory Response Unit (CRU) and the Aceh Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), as well as local communities and the police. Field training often takes place in wildlife areas across Aceh Province.
The Wildlife Veterinary Training Course is an annual program, now in its sixth year. Participation is highly selective, with only 20 students chosen after passing several tests administered by the organizers.
“USK students are highly enthusiastic about this program, demonstrating a strong interest and concern for wildlife and their environment,” said Dr. Christopher Reinhard Stremme, one of guest lecturers for the course.
The program began in late 2015, with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of USK aiming to advance wildlife medical programs by inviting international experts to participate and collaborate. Since then, numerous successful activities have been conducted, including seminars, public lectures, and the annual international training.
