Strengthening Global Veterinary Education: The Collaboration Between FVMAS and University of Illinois

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FVMAS) at the University of Peradeniya has embarked on a transformative collaboration with the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, fostering global partnerships in veterinary education and research. This initiative is aligned with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University of Peradeniya and the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign.

Key Objectives of the Collaboration

The collaboration focuses on five strategic objectives:

• Providing clinical training opportunities for early-career academic staff in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences and the Department of Farm Animal Production and Health at FVMAS.
• Identifying postgraduate opportunities (MSc, PhD) for competent BVSc graduates and recent academic recruits of the FVMAS.
• Gaining expert insights into veterinary education including curriculum development, Problem-based learning/Case-based learning (PBL/CBL), and e-learning methodologies.
• Facilitating training for University of Illinois veterinary students in tropical medicine, wildlife, and aquaculture sectors in Sri Lanka.
• Promoting research collaborations between the two institutions.

Bridging Leadership A pivotal figure in this partnership is Dr. Siva Sivananthan, a proud alumnus of the University of Peradeniya and a highly successful entrepreneur in the United States. Dr. Sivananthan’s dedication, vision and generous sponsorship have been instrumental in connecting the two institutions and driving this collaboration forward.
Milestones and Exchanges The collaboration began with a visit by a delegation from the University of Illinois, including Professor Peter D. Constable (Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine), Assistant Professors William E. Sander and Kari Foss, Professor Bob Easter (Former President of the University of Illinois), and Dr. Siva Sivananthan. Their visit to FVMAS on August 7-8, 2023, set the foundation for this initiative.
In November 2023, a team from FVMAS reciprocated with a visit to the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. This exchange further solidified plans for implementing collaborative activities and achieving the outlined objectives. The team comprised of Prof. P.G.A Pushpakumara (former Dean), Dr. L.G.S Lokugalappatti, Dr. H.M.H.S. Ariyarathne, Dr. H.E.L. De Saram, and Dr. M.L.W.P. De Silva.

Early Achievements

Although in its inaugural year, the partnership has already demonstrated tangible outcomes:

• Clinical Training in Equine Medicine and Surgery: Dr. K. Nizanantha, a senior lecturer from the Department of Farm Animal Production and Health, completed a three-month visiting scholarship under the mentorship of Professor Annet McCoy from August to November 2024. His experience not only enhanced his expertise but also initiated plans for future collaborative webinars and workshops.
• Clinical Pathology Training: Dr. Vidura Gajanayaka, an assistant lecturer from the Department of Farm Animal Production and Health, participated in a two-month visiting scholarship under the supervision of Professor Michael Rosser from October to December 2024, focusing on clinical pathology. Additionally, virtual access to clinical pathology rounds led by the Illinois veterinary team has been established, facilitating ongoing educational exchanges between the two institutions.
• Wildlife Training for Illinois Students: A wildlife training program is scheduled for University of Illinois veterinary students from January 5-19, 2025. This immersive experience will expose students to the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka, including its wildlife conservation efforts.
• Educational Advancements: Dr. M.L.W.P. De Silva from the Veterinary Medical Education Unit at FVMAS has applied for a PhD program in Veterinary Medical Education at the University of Illinois, pending approval. If accepted, this initiative would mark a significant milestone in advancing FVMAS’s veterinary education program to new heights.
• Collaborative Research Initiatives: Dr. N.M.T. Anupama from the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology at FVMAS and Professor William E. Sander from the University of Illinois have initiated collaborative research efforts, further strengthening the ties between the two institutions .
• Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Program: On November 14, 2024, a CPD workshop titled "Enhancing Veterinary Education: Leveraging Digital Platforms and Artificial Intelligence for Efficient Case-Based Learning" was held in collaboration with the Working Group for Veterinary Education Research– Asian Association of Veterinary Schools. The resource person was Duncan Ferguson, an Emeritus Professor of Clinical Pharmacology and past Department Head of Comparative Biosciences at the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois. This event highlighted innovative approaches to veterinary education, fostering further knowledge sharing between the two institutions.

Looking Ahead

The collaboration between FVMAS and the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine represents a forward-thinking approach to veterinary education and research. By fostering global partnerships, this initiative not only benefits the academic and professional growth of its participants but also strengthens the bonds between two distinguished institutions. The future holds exciting prospects for further impactful outcomes, including webinars, workshops, expanded educational knowledge sharing, and collaborative research in veterinary medicine, setting a benchmark for international cooperation in veterinary sciences.