The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKH UGM) held an Open Senate Meeting to mark the peak celebration of its 79th Anniversary on Monday (Sep. 22) at the FKH UGM Auditorium. This year’s anniversary carried the theme “Synergy of Innovation, Technology, and Empathy to Face the Challenges of Future Veterinarians.”
Chair of the Academic Senate of FKH UGM, Professor Siti Isrina Oktavia Salasia, emphasized that to address the future challenges of the veterinary profession, innovation must drive solutions, technology should accelerate progress, and empathy must ensure that every step benefits humanity, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability.
“The synergy of these three elements will shape future veterinarians not only into competent professionals but also visionary and humane leaders, capable of wisely responding to global One Health challenges,” she said.
UGM Rector, Professor Ova Emilia, emphasized the crucial role of veterinary medicine in ensuring the sustainability, health, and welfare of all living beings, including humans, animals, and the environment, through a holistic approach to achieving One Health and enhancing public health.
Dean of FKH UGM, Professor Teguh Budipitojo, stated in his address that as the first higher education institution in veterinary medicine established in Indonesia after the Proclamation of Independence, FKH UGM has pioneered Indonesia’s efforts to fulfill its obligations as a member of the World Organization for Animal Health.
These efforts include the establishment of the Indonesian Veterinary Council (KVI) as the Veterinary Statutory Body (VSB) and the drafting of the Veterinary Education and Services Bill, which has been included in the National Legislative Program of the Indonesian House of Representatives for the 2024–2025 period.
In addition, FKH UGM produced 127 scientific publications and intellectual property rights (IPRs) between October 2024 and September 2025. The faculty also entered into 44 cooperation agreements with strategic partners, including national and international government and private institutions.
Delivering his scientific oration, alumnus of FKH UGM and Marketing Director of PT Sido Agung Group, Asrokh Nawawi, presented on “The Role of Veterinarians in the Development of the Modern Poultry Industry to Support Sustainable Food Security in Indonesia.”
He noted that the growing human population increases the demand for food, including safe and hygienic animal-based products. He emphasized that the government must strengthen regulations and oversight, foster cross-sector collaboration, and provide incentives for farmers to promote sustainable practices.
“The industry must invest in technology and strengthen the role of veterinarians, while educational institutions should adapt curricula and encourage specialization,” Nawawi concluded.
Author: Alena Damaris
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographer: Firsto Adi