ULM Prepares Veterinary Medicine Study Program to Boost Animal Husbandry Progress in South Kalimantan

Banjarmasin – Universitas Lambung Mangkurat (ULM) continues to demonstrate its commitment to answering the needs of the people of South Kalimantan (Kalsel) by designing a Veterinary Medicine Study Program. This strategic step has received full support from the Governor of South Kalimantan, H. Muhidin, which was conveyed through the Assistant for General Administration of the South Kalimantan Provincial Secretariat, Ahmad Bagiawan, at the workshop for the establishment of the study program.

The workshop for the establishment of the Veterinary Medicine Study Program (PSKH) was held on Monday (12/23/2024) in the Hall of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, ULM Banjarbaru. The activity presented two speakers, namely the General Chairperson of the Indonesian Veterinary Doctors Association (PBHI) Dr. drh. Muhammad Munawaroh, M.M., and the Chairperson of the Indonesian Veterinary Faculty Association (AFKHI) Prof. drh. Teguh Budipitojo, M.P., Ph.D.

On this occasion, Ahmad Bagiawan emphasized the importance of the existence of this program considering that South Kalimantan has great potential in the livestock sector.

“Professional veterinarians are needed to manage livestock potential, from beef cattle, swamp buffalo, to poultry such as alabio ducks, which are typical regional germplasm,” he said.

The livestock sector in South Kalimantan has shown significant development, including leading programs such as the Oil Palm-Cattle Integration System and Sitii Hawa Lari which have become national models. The potential for fisheries is also a concern, with opportunities for development on an international scale.

Gia, Ahmad Bagiawan’s nickname, emphasized that this study program can become a center for research and innovation in the fields of animal health, feed technology, and livestock management.

“If supported by continuous research, swamp buffalo and alabio ducks can become superior products typical of South Kalimantan with high economic value,” he added.

The ULM Veterinary Medicine Study Program is expected to not only produce professional workers, but also build a sustainable livestock and animal health ecosystem. Synergy between the government, universities, the private sector, and farmers is the key to success.

“I invite all parties to fully support the establishment of this program. Solid collaboration will encourage the progress of livestock, improve community welfare, and strengthen regional competitiveness,” concluded Gia.

With this vision, ULM is optimistic that the Veterinary Medicine Study Program will become a driving force for the development of animal husbandry and animal health in South Kalimantan.