The Capacity Building Training to Faculties; FAVF-AFU on Equine Welfare and Basic Farriery.

Tranings deepak

Recognizing that strengthening veterinary education is fundamental to improving the welfare of working horses and donkeys, the Animal Health Training and Consultancy Service (AHTCS) successfully conducted a three days Capacity Building Training on “Equine Welfare and Basic Farriery” for faculty members of the Faculty of Animal Science, Veterinary Science and Fisheries (FAVF), Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU). 

The training was organized under the Hoofprint Project implemented by AHTCS with the support of Brooke – Action for Working Horses and Donkeys. The programme was designed to enhance the knowledge, practical skills, and teaching capacity of university faculty, enabling them to effectively integrate equine welfare concepts into veterinary education and prepare future veterinarians to provide better care for working equines. 

Throughout the three-day programme, participants gained comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge on key aspects of equine health and welfare, including: 

  • Equine welfare principles and internationally recognized welfare standards; 
  • Safe handling and humane management practices; 
  • Basic farriery techniques and hoof care; 
  • Equine nutrition and feeding management; and 
  • Common equine diseases, their prevention, diagnosis, and basic treatment. 

The training sessions were facilitated by internationally recognized experts Dr. Saurabh Singh, (Senior Manager – Global Animal Health), and Mr. Angus Wiseman, (Global – Farrier Advisor). Drawing on their extensive international experience, the facilitators delivered interactive lectures, practical demonstrations, and hands-on learning sessions that provided participants with valuable technical insights and practical skills. 

The programme successfully achieved its objectives by strengthening the capacity of FAVF faculty members in the areas of equine welfare, health, management, and basic farriery. Participants expressed their appreciation to AHTCS and Brooke for organizing such a relevant and practical training programme. Faculty members highlighted that the knowledge and skills gained would significantly enhance their teaching and contribute to producing competent veterinary graduates capable of improving the welfare of working horses and donkeys across Nepal. 

At the closing session, participants conveyed their gratitude to AHTCS and Brooke – Action for Working Horses and Donkeys for their continued commitment to advancing veterinary education. They also expressed their interest in participating in similar capacity-building programmes in the future to further strengthen academic excellence and professional competency in equine health and welfare. 

Through initiatives like this, AHTCS remains committed to investing in veterinary education, promoting animal welfare, and strengthening the capacity of future veterinary professionals. By empowering university faculty with updated knowledge and practical expertise, the organization is contributing to improved health and welfare of working equines while supporting the livelihoods of the communities that depend on them.