In a bid to advance its academic landscape and meet growing industry demands, the University of Rwanda (UR) has announced significant reforms, including the establishment of a dedicated College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Production, and Sciences.

The decision, endorsed by the cabinet on February 27, 2024, aims to elevate research efforts and increase the pool of qualified veterinary professionals.

Raymond Ndikumana, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Administration at the University of Rwanda, disclosed to The New Times that the current College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine (CAVM) will undergo restructuring, resulting in the creation of two distinct entities: the College of Agriculture and the College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences.

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"The College of Agriculture will be headquartered in Musanze District, while the College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences will be based in Nyagatare District," Ndikumana said.

This initiative marks a significant expansion for UR, increasing its colleges from six to seven, with the aim of bolstering the production of qualified veterinary doctors.

Ndikumana emphasized the university's intent to raise the annual output of graduates in this field from the current 162 to a range of 300 to 600, accompanied by an augmentation in faculty size.

The decision to split CAVM reflects strategic imperatives to enhance teaching quality, as Ndikumana highlighted the dispersion of departments across multiple locations as a hindrance to efficiency.

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Enhancing Livestock Management and Research

The reforms are poised to invigorate research efforts in veterinary medicine and animal sciences, critical amid escalating livestock production. Notably, the increase in fish, cattle, and small livestock production underscores the necessity for proactive research endeavors.

In response to burgeoning industry demands, Ndikumana underscored plans to establish a Rwf13.3 billion Veterinary Laboratory Complex. This facility will serve as a pivotal hub for veterinary medicine, livestock production, and technology, with a focus on combating emerging diseases in domestic and wild animals.

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Furthermore, the establishment of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences aligns with Rwanda's broader agricultural objectives. Nyagatare District, home to the new college, is poised to host Rwanda's inaugural milk powder factory, emblematic of the nation's burgeoning dairy sector.

As the country witnesses notable increases in animal populations across various sectors, including cows, goats, sheep, poultry, and pigs, the new college is positioned to spearhead innovations in animal husbandry practices and productivity enhancements.

Embracing Future Challenges

Looking ahead, Ndikumana emphasized the potential inclusion of a dedicated department for aquaculture within the new college, reflecting UR's commitment to addressing diverse agricultural domains.

Moreover, these reforms extend beyond the veterinary domain, with the University of Rwanda undertaking comprehensive reviews across its academic offerings. Plans include consolidating colleges at specific campuses, streamlining academic programs, and enhancing institutional autonomy to foster innovation and adaptability.

The University of Rwanda was created in 2013 after merging seven public higher learning institutions.