The UGM Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FKH UGM) is changing its educational curriculum to align with the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) competencies. This aims to produce higher-quality graduates who meet international standards.
“These curriculum changes will ensure that FKH UGM graduates conform to international standards and are ready to implement all international programs related to animal health, particularly regarding transboundary diseases,” stated the Dean of FKH UGM, Professor Teguh Budipitojo, during the Open Senate Meeting of FKH UGM, marking its 78th anniversary on Friday, Sept. 20, 2024.
Dean Budipitojo explained that the Veterinary Profession Education Program (PPDH) implements various steps to improve teaching and learning activities.
This includes creating a faster schedule and advancing the introduction process for prospective new students, giving them ample time to prepare.
“The entry exam for PPDH is conducted before student registration for the PPDH program. It is hoped that registered students will meet the minimum standards required,” he elaborated.
Furthermore, the dean explained that the PPDH curriculum is being revised to align with WOAH competencies.
He noted that approximately 52 external facilities are affiliated with PPDH and serve as venues for student extracurricular activities that enhance veterinary competencies.
“Alongside this, the standardization of instructors at these facilities is continuously being carried out by each station to harmonize the competencies of the instructors according to the requirements set by PPDH FKH UGM,” he said.
During the peak of the 78th anniversary, the dean had the opportunity to present an overview of performance from August 2023 to July 2024.
In addition to academic and student affairs, he highlighted various developments and advancements in finance, assets, human resources, research, community service, collaborations, and alumni relations.
The UGM Vice Rector for Education and Teaching, Professor Wening Udasmoro, welcomed and appreciated the main theme of the 78th Anniversary of FKH UGM, which is the Transformation of the Veterinary Profession in Facing the Digital Era and the Development of Artificial Intelligence.
She remarked that this theme is very relevant to the current state of the world, where digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) have penetrated various fields of life, including animal health.
“A veterinarian is not only responsible for animal welfare but is also expected to adapt and leverage technological advancements to improve the quality of services and care,” she stated.
Professor Udasmoro noted that the digital era has significantly changed various aspects of veterinary practice, from easier access to information and advanced diagnostic tools to data-driven health management.
All of these aim to accelerate processes, enhance accuracy, and ultimately expand the range of services veterinarians provide.
“Moreover, advancements in artificial intelligence are opening new avenues for innovation in veterinary medicine. With AI, veterinarians can process medical data more quickly and accurately, analyze radiology exam results, and even develop more targeted medications and therapies,” she added.
During the peak of FKH UGM’s 78th anniversary, various achievements of FKH UGM were also highlighted, along with a scientific oration by Dr. Dhirgo Adji, titled “Osteoarthritis in Dogs: Therapy Problems and Economic Impact on Dog Owners in Indonesia.”
Author: Agung Nugroho
Post-editor: Lintang