Opening up Access To Advanced Veterinary Services, Education, and Research
Addressing new career opportunities in the veterinary industry
A cat named Hayat received a hind limb prosthesis six months ago at the veterinary clinic of the Agricultural University of Georgia. This is the first time an animal received a prosthetic limb in Georgia. The artificial rear leg is an intraosseous transcutaneous amputation prosthesis made from a titanium alloy. The prosthesis was custom 3D printed to precisely fit Hayat. The rehabilitation process was successful, and Hayat is now thriving, freely using her new paw.
The surgery was performed by Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, a graduate of the School of Veterinary Medicine at the Agricultural University of Georgia and a surgeon at the university clinic. Assisting him was veterinary surgeon Giorgi Chikvatia, also a graduate of the university.
Renovation and modernization of the Agricultural University of Georgia’s veterinary clinic was made possible thanks to USAID and co-financing from the Kakha Bendukidze Knowledge Fund. According to the Vice-rector of Free University of Tbilisi/Agricultural University of Georgia, Natia Samushia, “The renovated clinic plays a crucial role not only in implementing the university’s veterinary vocational program, but also is providing opportunities for new generations of veterinarians to conduct advanced surgeries that are essential for the development of veterinary services, education, and research in the country.”
In May 2023, the USAID Industry-led Skills Development Program partnered with the university to establish a new veterinary nurse/technician program and obtain government certification to upgrade the knowledge and skills of employees of farms, veterinary clinics, and other organizations. The program aligns with the current needs of the labor market and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area requirements related to animal health standards. As a result, the innovative Veterinary Nursing Program developed at the university incorporates deep theoretical knowledge and strong practical experience. The program will also benefit state institutions, as graduates will be eligible to take over the mandatory vaccination process, which requires a large pool of veterinary specialists countrywide.
This story is made possible by the support of the American People through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents of this story are the sole responsibility of IESC and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.”