The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKH UGM) inaugurated 191 new veterinarians at the Grha Sabha Pramana on Thursday, Jan. 16.
This inauguration marks an important moment in the graduation of new veterinarians ready to contribute to the health of animals and society at large. The newly inaugurated veterinarians consist of 148 women and 43 men.
This brings the total number of veterinarians graduated by FKH UGM to 6,406. The average study duration for the new veterinarians was 5 years, 8 months, and 11 days, with the fastest graduate completing the program in 5 years and 5 months.
The youngest veterinarian in this batch is 21 years, 11 months, and 14 days old. The best graduate was Annisa Amalia Zahra, with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.00.
Dean of FKH UGM, Professor Teguh Budipitojo, stated that 55.2% of the new veterinarians had already secured jobs even before their official graduation.
Most are employed in animal hospitals or veterinary clinics, while the rest work in companies, become entrepreneurs, or intend to continue their studies.
The dean emphasized that this inauguration symbolizes the beginning of a new responsibility for veterinarians. They play a strategic role in maintaining animal health, which in turn impacts human and environmental health.
“We know that after 30 years of Indonesia being free from foot-and-mouth disease (PMK), it suddenly surged again at the end of 2024 and continues to this day. It is our duty as veterinarians to assist every government effort,” said Dean Budipitojo.
He explained that to address the spread of PMK, FKH UGM, the Indonesian Association of Veterinary Faculties (AFKHI), and the Indonesian Veterinary Medical Association (PBPDHI) organized a joint seminar to establish recommendations for tackling the growing number of PMK cases.
“This activity is our shared commitment, and it is our responsibility to contribute to all efforts to control animal diseases,” he added.
He also reminded that the veterinary profession carried by the graduates is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in achieving health targets, environmental protection, and poverty reduction.
“The professional oath you have taken is not just a formality, but a moral and professional commitment that will guide your every step forward,” he stated.
The dean hopes that the new veterinarians will uphold principles of integrity, dedication, and a continuous desire to learn. The medical field, including veterinary medicine, is constantly evolving, and self-competence must be consistently improved.
With new enthusiasm and the knowledge gained during their education, the graduates are ready to serve and contribute to the health of animals and society in Indonesia.
Dr. Muhammad Munawaroh, the Chair of PBPDHI, congratulated the new veterinarians from FKH UGM and advised them to maintain moral values and uphold professionalism in carrying out their duties and responsibilities.
“Understand and practice the veterinary code of ethics. This is important because it serves as guidance for veterinarians on what is permissible and what is not when conducting animal examinations. You must always consider the dignity of the veterinary profession,” he concluded.
Author: Triya Andriyani
Photographer: Firsto