Shakarim University aims to align veterinary education with international standards
As part of the collaboration between the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and national partners to improve the veterinary education system, Shakarim University welcomed international consultant Dmitry Morozov, Regional Coordinator for Veterinary Workforce Development in Eastern Europe and Central Asia at the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH, formerly OIE).
The main purpose of his visit was to conduct an in-depth analysis of the bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in veterinary science at Shakarim University — including the content of core and elective courses, teaching methods, and student assessment systems — and to compare them with international standards.
During his visit, the international expert examined the compliance of current curricula with global requirements. In particular, he reviewed the WOAH “Day-1 Competencies,” FAO recommendations for veterinary education, as well as competencies related to the “One Health” concept and field epidemiology. At meetings with the university’s faculty and students, he discussed opportunities for modernization and reform of academic programs, identified institutional needs and gaps in academic infrastructure, and explored prospects for participation in international partnerships and twinning programs.
Following the visit, a roadmap and action plan will be developed to align veterinary education with international standards. The document will include proposals to update curriculum content, introduce practice-oriented modules, and implement the principles of the “One Health” approach.
“We are conducting a comprehensive assessment of veterinary medicine programs in Kazakhstan. The goal of this analysis is to identify gaps and shortcomings in the curricula. Later, an international team of experts will develop special educational modules to address these gaps. In addition, a twinning project is planned for veterinary faculties — a partnership agreement between internationally accredited foreign and Kazakh faculties. Currently, cooperation opportunities are being explored with the Royal Veterinary College of the University of London and four Kazakhstani universities”- said Dmitry Morozov.
It is worth noting that the official FAO portal offers professional development courses and learning resources for both specialists and students. Participation is open to everyone, and learners can freely choose topics of interest.
“By improving their knowledge and skills through these courses, students can increase their chances of working with international organizations such as FAO. This direction holds great potential, particularly for graduates in veterinary medicine. The work of FAO and WOAH focuses on combating highly dangerous diseases and ensuring food security. In this regard, Kazakhstani scientists and educators can contribute their local expertise” -emphasized Dmitry Morozov.
Today’s meeting can be considered an important step towards elevating Shakarim University’s veterinary education to a new level of international cooperation, aligning its academic programs with global standards, and enhancing students’ practical competencies.