A laboratory of a highly reputable virology institute may be established at the Vitebsk Veterinary Academy

A branch laboratory of one of the world's most reputable virological research institutions may be established at the Vitebsk State Academy of Veterinary Medicine, as reported by Dmitry Morozov, Head of the International Relations Department of the university.

This year, the academy's staff received a grant from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) to conduct joint research at the Friedrich Loeffler Institute. This is the oldest research institution in the world in the field of microbiology, epidemiology, and food safety. Its laboratories are reference laboratories for 74 diseases, including Ebola virus, HIV, and others. Vitebsk scientists have gained the opportunity to conduct crucial research alongside their German colleagues. Three instructors returned last weekend with their initial impressions and results. Negotiations are underway regarding the potential establishment of branch laboratories of this institute in Belarus, including at the VSAVM.

"This year, an agreement was signed with the Estonian University of Life Sciences under the Erasmus+ program," added Dmitry Morozov. "Under a joint project, several students and faculty members of the academy will spend a semester or two at the foreign university as part of an academic mobility program. This is full-fledged study; all subjects taken abroad are credited at the alma mater upon diploma issuance. Instructors are invited to give lectures, conduct master classes, and participate in expert groups. All expenses are covered by the European Commission. Next month, our first student, who has a good command of English, will travel to Estonia. We will assess the effect, and then others will follow."

In addition, annually, the best students of the VSAVM undergo agricultural internships at farms in Germany, Finland, Norway, and Denmark. On average, 20-40 students per year, mainly studying in the specialties of "Veterinary Sanitary Expertise" and "Veterinary Medicine." This is because animal health and protection against transboundary diseases, such as avian influenza, are among the most critical components of the security of the entire global community.

Ekaterina Knyazeva, BELTA.