Nairobi (SLpost)- Today, the European Union has launched the handing over phase of the Sheikh Technical Veterinary School to the Inter-Governmental Authority for Development (IGAD). The pioneer school specialised in animal health and initiated by the EU in Somaliland 10 years ago, will indeed soon become a regional centre of excellence within the Horn of Africa.
With a third aid envelope of 3 million EUR, the EU will ensure a smooth transition of the school management and boost the school’s education services. This by upgrading the academic programmes to university level and by extending training and collaboration with other institutions in the entire Horn of Africa.
The Sheikh Technical Veterinary School is one of the EU’s main success stories in the Region. It was created in 2002 as part of the EU’s efforts in supporting the Somali livestock sector. It has successfully trained a generation of competent professionals, from the entire region of the Horn of Africa, to manage animal disease control and support regional trade. A major effort that contributed to the lifting of a regional livestock export ban which led to an export increase of Somali livestock from 2.5 million in 2007 to 4.8 million in 2011.
The Sheikh Technical Veterinary School is currently managed by EU’s implementing partner, Terra Nuova, under the auspices of the African Union Inter-regional Bureau for Animal Resources. IGAD has recently decided to adopt the School and the handing over process should end within the next three years.