Lahore, The University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) Lahore celebrated World Veterinary Day in collaboration with Forward Solution, UM Enterprises, and JW Nutrition with a series of events at its City Campus. The activities aimed to create awareness about animal welfare and highlight the essential role of veterinarians in public health and community wellbeing.
According to University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, the day featured a walk, a seminar, a poster competition, and a free medical treatment camp. The theme for World Veterinary Day was “Veterinarians Are Essential Health Workers.” These events emphasized the contributions veterinarians make to public health, food safety, and food security.
The Chief Executive Officer of Forward Solution Animal Health Company, Dr. Asim Mahmood Khan, was the Chief Guest for the occasion. He joined UVAS Vice-Chancellor Meritorious Prof. Dr. Muhammad Younus (DLA.I, T.I) to lead the walk, which started from in front of the Vice-Chancellor’s office and concluded at the main lawn. The walk saw participation from UVAS faculty, students, and industry representatives from the public and private sectors.
The seminar addressed the importance of veterinarians and their role in animal health, welfare, and treatment. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Younus spoke about the significant role veterinarians play in safeguarding public health, ensuring food safety, and promoting environmental sustainability. He highlighted the work of the Punjab livestock department and veterinarians who provide treatment services at the doorsteps of livestock farmers.
Dr. Asim Mahmood Khan emphasized that veterinarians not only treat animals but also ensure food safety and food security. He suggested the need to focus on local breeds to enhance milk and meat production in Pakistan, as these are fundamental components of the national diet.
Prof. Dr. Aneela Zameer Durrani discussed the importance of government support for livestock policy and the collaboration between academia and industry to advance the livestock sector. Prof. Dr. Masood Rabbani announced the results of the poster competition, with Ms. Izza winning 1st place, Taheer Ahmad Babar taking 2nd, and Faisal Ayub in 3rd. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Younus presented a shield to Dr. Asim Mahmood Khan and distributed cash prizes to the poster competition winners.
Additionally, the UVAS Department of Veterinary Medicine organized a Veterinary Aid Outreach Camp at the Outdoor Hospital in collaboration with IVSA Pakistan and National UVAS. This camp provided free medical treatment to animals, further demonstrating the university’s commitment to animal welfare and public health.