Veterinary nursing in South Africa (1977-2000)

The history of the university course in veterinary nursing in South Africa is reviewed from its inception in 1977 to 2000. The motivation for, and initial problems encountered in, its implementation are outlined. Selection criteria and course subjects, including clinical work, are supplied and the changes in these, following the introduction of a new curriculum in 1993/94, are highlighted. Reference is made to the legal status of the nursing profession.     

Veterinary education in the world—changing attitudes

SUMMARY Veterinary educators all over the world are concerned about the explosion in knowledge and about the way veterinary science is taught at present. How can we produce veterinarians who will provide the sort of care that will be expected in the year 2000 and beyond? In the recent past many schools have increased the information presented in their courses without removing any material. Student stress has increased, and undergraduates do not retain what they are taught. The type of assessment that is currently used often requires regurgitation of ‘facts’ rather than the solution of problems. This paper considers some of the issues that are pertinent to the future of veterinary education and suggests ways in which the situation may be improved. There is a need for increased activity by the Australian Veterinary Association to convince government that present funding is inadequate and that increased funding is urgently needed if we are to produce veterinarians of the quality the country will need in the next century.     

Veterinary education in China

A brief history of the development of veterinary knowledge and education in China and a short account of present-day veterinary education are presented. In dealing with the latter, information on the number and structure of schools, the undergraduate curriculum, graduate numbers and employment on graduation are considered. Information on the staffing of veterinary teaching departments, academic staff salaries and pensions is also added.