UNAIR NEWS – The Faculty of Health, Veterinary Medicine, and Natural Sciences (FIKKIA) Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) Banyuwangi has officially launched its 2025 On-the-Job Training (OJT) program. Four female students from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Central Mindanao University are taking part in this year’s program, which runs from Monday, April 28, to Friday, May 23, 2025. The participants will engage in clinical rotations focused on wildlife conservation medicine, exploring key areas such as pathology, clinical science, reproduction, veterinary public health, parasitology, and microbiology.

Program Coordinator Drh. Ratih Novita Praja, M.Si., noted that this marks the second year of UNAIR’s OJT program and that it continues to attract strong interest from international students—especially from Central Mindanao University. She emphasized the importance of collaborative partnerships in achieving shared goals in veterinary education, knowledge exchange, and professional development.

“Over the next month, these students will explore both the academic and hands-on aspects of veterinary medicine and wildlife conservation—fields that are becoming increasingly critical in addressing global issues like biodiversity loss and threats to wildlife,” she said.

Strengthening institutional partnerships

A lecturer in Veterinary Microbiology, Praja highlighted that the OJT experience not only builds students’ technical knowledge of wildlife conservation but also helps them develop practical veterinary skills. By working alongside field experts, participants gain valuable real-world exposure, preparing them to take on future challenges in animal health and environmental conservation. The program also fosters stronger inter-institutional relationships and contributes to broader discourse in the veterinary and conservation sectors.

“As we learn together, let’s remember that teamwork, empathy, and respect are the foundations of a better future—for both humanity and the animal world,” she added.

Praja encouraged students to embrace the opportunity for personal and professional growth. She urged them to stay curious, ask questions, and remain open to new ideas—reminding them that the program is also a valuable platform for career networking and development.

“Let’s make the most of our time in the OJT 2025 program to learn, grow, and spark meaningful change in the field of wildlife conservation,” she concluded.

Author: Azhar Burhanuddin

Editor: Kukuh Ragil Imanto