On April 30, Yerevan hosted a Veterinary Day event under the theme “The Veterinarian – a Guardian of Public Health,” bringing together key stakeholders from the public, private, academic, and international sectors. For the seventh consecutive year, the Strategic Development Agency (SDA) NGO has initiated and organized this important event, providing a platform for professional dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange across the sector.
This year’s event was organized in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia and with the support of the “Innovative Livestock Management: Animal Migration, Breeding & Markets” (INLIMA) project.
The event opened with official remarks, including a speech by Mr. Mkrtich Ayvazyan, Chairman of Strategic Development Agency (SDA) NGO, who emphasized that Veterinary Day is not only a professional celebration but also an important forum for addressing sectoral challenges and identifying development opportunities. He highlighted the essential role of veterinarians in safeguarding public health, ensuring food safety, and supporting sustainable agricultural development, while also underscoring the importance of strengthening education, engaging young professionals, and fostering continuous cross-sectoral cooperation.
Particular attention was given to the engagement and development of the next generation of veterinary professionals, with emphasis placed on attracting young specialists, enhancing their capacities, and strengthening their role within the sector. Discussions also explored how public policy is responding to these needs through the promotion of educational reforms, expansion of practical training opportunities, and creation of enabling conditions for youth participation.
It was further emphasized that sustainable sectoral development requires strong multi-stakeholder cooperation. Educational institutions, the private sector, and development partners each play a critical role in preparing future professionals, facilitating knowledge transfer, and ensuring alignment between training and labor market needs.
The program included two thematic panel discussions dedicated to the main development directions of the veterinary sector, existing challenges, and emerging opportunities. The first panel focused on systemic issues, policy priorities, and the role of education in preparing qualified professionals. The second panel addressed the strengthening of the science–practice nexus as a key driver of sectoral advancement, highlighting innovative approaches and the applied value of research in improving veterinary services.
The event also featured a thematic film and podcast illustrating the daily work of veterinarians, their responsibilities, and their indispensable contribution to public health protection.
Overall, the event served as a meaningful platform for highlighting sectoral priorities, facilitating knowledge exchange, strengthening inter-institutional and public–private cooperation, and fostering new partnerships. It once again reaffirmed the critical role of veterinarians in ensuring a healthy, safe, and sustainable society.
“Innovative Livestock Management: Animal Migration, Breeding & Markets” (INLIMA) project is implemented by Strategic Development Agency NGO and funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), the operational unit of Austrian Development Cooperation.