Makerere University (Mak)

The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (CoVAB) at Makerere University stands as a premier institution dedicated to the advancement of animal sciences and veterinary medicine. Originally established in 1971 as the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, the institution has undergone significant strategic evolution to address the dynamic needs of the national, regional, and global environments. Today, CoVAB focuses on transforming the animal resources sector into a pillar for economic growth and livelihood improvement.

Core Mission and Vision

CoVAB is driven by a mission to provide transformative knowledge, skills, and innovations that contribute to the continuous improvement of society. The college envisions a future characterized by healthier, wealthier, and safer communities achieved through the strategic development of animal value chains.

Training and Educational Approach

The college is committed to nurturing students into productive, entrepreneurial, and skilled professionals. Moving beyond the traditional focus of producing graduates solely for state-sponsored veterinary departments, CoVAB emphasizes the creation of job creators who can navigate the complexities of the modern animal resources world. Key educational and training activities include:

• Entrepreneurial Development: Through initiatives like the Africa Institute for Strategic Animal Resource Services and Development (AFRISA), the college trains and graduates skilled livestock agribusiness entrepreneurs.
• Advanced Research: CoVAB actively engages in high-level research, including projects funded by the Global Health EDCTP3 Joint Undertaking, focusing on diagnostic innovations and digital dashboards.
• Practical Skill Acquisition: Students are equipped with hands-on experience through the management of university livestock farms and participation in urban farming and climate-smart agricultural practices.
• Biorisk Management: The college prioritizes the strengthening of capacity among laboratory technologists to ensure safety and excellence in veterinary and animal resource diagnostics.

Strategic Activities and Partnerships

CoVAB maintains a robust network of international collaborations, working alongside prestigious institutions such as the University of Glasgow and the Leiden University Medical Center. These partnerships facilitate joint research and the exchange of expertise, ensuring that the college remains at the forefront of veterinary science and animal resource management. By integrating academic rigor with practical agribusiness training, CoVAB continues to play a pivotal role in addressing youth unemployment and fostering sustainable development within the animal resources sector.