UNAIR NEWS – The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FKH) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) hosted its 172nd Veterinarian Inauguration and Oath-Taking Ceremony on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. Held at the Airlangga Convention Center, MERR-C Campus, the event celebrated the inauguration of 115 skilled veterinarians prepared to make significant contributions to the society.
The ceremony was attended by UNAIR’s Vice Rector for Academic, Students, and Alumni Affairs, Prof. Bambang Sektiari Lukiswanto DEA DVM, alongside the leadership team of FKH. In his address, Prof. Lukiswanto emphasized the extensive responsibilities that come with being a veterinarian.
Diverse responsibilities
Prof. Lukiswanto highlighted that veterinarians play an essential role beyond providing veterinary medical services. Their contributions include ensuring the safety of animal-based food products, addressing zoonotic and non-zoonotic infectious diseases, and advancing comparative medical research and innovation.
“Veterinarians hold a critical position, especially in strengthening food security by ensuring the availability of animal protein. They must oversee the entire food production process, from the source to the end consumer,” he remarked during the ceremony.
He also acknowledged the urgent need for veterinarians to tackle outbreaks such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), which has recently affected multiple regions in Indonesia. Prof. Lukiswanto emphasized that veterinarians must be equipped to address both emerging and re-emerging diseases effectively.
In addition, he encouraged graduates to embrace pivotal roles on both national and international stages. “Be agents of change who elevate the veterinary profession. Your contributions will have a profound impact, not only on humanity but also on other living creatures and the environment,” he concluded.
Competing on global stage
Echoing Prof. Lukiswanto’s sentiments, FKH UNAIR Dean Prof. Mirni Lamid drh MP urged graduates to compete confidently in national and international arenas. She expressed confidence that the education and training provided by FKH UNAIR would empower them to achieve their goals.
“Be strong and resilient individuals who uphold the values of Universitas Airlangga. Always remember our motto, Excellence with Morality, and carry the pride of your alma mater wherever you go,” she advised.
Prof. Lamid also stressed the vital role of veterinarians in addressing challenges related to animal health and human well-being. “For instance, the ongoing spread of FMD continues to impact various sectors of society. I trust that you will play a significant role in solving these pressing issues,” she added.
Author: Nadia Azahrah Putri
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
