Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- FAO experts conducted an assessment of veterinary faculty curricula In order to improve knowledge and practical skills in the use of antimicrobial agents (AMU) and resistance to antimicrobial agents (AMR) in veterinary medicine and agriculture.

The assessment took place in Tashkent and Samarkand in collaboration with Samarkand State University of Veterinary Medicine, Livestock, and Biotechnology and its branch in Tashkent. Assessment activities were conducted under the project "Global Health Security - Protecting Animal Health in Uzbekistan, Building Capacity under One Health and Resilience to Antimicrobial Agents and Mitigating Zoonotic Threats," funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). More than 1430 participants took part, including teachers, students, and postgraduates.

The main objective of this initiative is to strengthen the capacity of veterinary professionals in the use of antimicrobial agents (AMU) and the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR), as well as managing these risks. This is crucial for preventing and mitigating zoonotic threats, thereby improving animal health and supporting the One Health approach.

The comprehensive assessment included a detailed analysis of current veterinary educational programs to identify gaps and areas requiring improvement related to AMU and AMR. The findings and recommendations of this assessment will be communicated to educators to inform potential revisions to veterinary medicine curricula. By aligning educational content with the latest global standards and best practices, the program aims to equip future veterinary professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively combat antimicrobial resistance.

Maripa Kichinebatyrov, FAO’s lead expert on the project, stated: "Our assessment is an important step in ensuring that veterinary professionals are well-prepared to address issues related to antimicrobial resistance. Collaboration with Samarkand State University of Veterinary Medicine and its Tashkent branch has played a significant role in these efforts."

FAO’s "Global Health Security" project aims to strengthen animal health protection systems and enhance capacity to combat AMR worldwide. This initiative in Uzbekistan serves as an example of an active approach to public health protection through improving veterinary education and practice.