Open access to advanced veterinary services, education and research

Open access to advanced veterinary services, education and Research

Seize new career opportunities in veterinary medicine

Hayat the cat wearing artificial claws

Six months ago, a cat named Hayat received a hind limb prosthesis at the Georgia Agricultural University Veterinary Clinic. This was the first time an animal in Georgia had received a prosthetic limb. The prosthetic hind leg is an intraosseous percutaneous amputation prosthesis made of titanium alloy. The prosthesis was custom 3D printed to fit Hayat precisely. The rehabilitation process was successful, and Hayat is now thriving and can use her new paws freely.

The operation was performed by Lasha-Giorgi Japaridze, a graduate of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the Agricultural University of Georgia and a surgeon at the University Clinic. He was assisted by veterinarian Giorgi Chikvatia, also a graduate of the university.

The renovation and modernization of the Georgian Agricultural University Veterinary Clinic was made possible by a joint grant from USAID and the Kahabendukidze Knowledge Fund. “The renovated clinic not only plays a vital role in implementing the university’s veterinary career program, but also provides a new generation of veterinarians with the opportunity to perform advanced surgeries, which is crucial for the development of veterinary services, education, and research in the country,” said Natia Samushia, Vice Rector of Tbilisi Free University/Georgian Agricultural University.

Surgeons Lasha – Giorgi Japaridze and Giorgi Chikvatia

In May 2023, the USAID Industry-Led Skill Development Program partnered with the university to establish and obtain government certification for a new Veterinary Nurse/Technician program to upgrade the knowledge and skills of employees on farms, veterinary clinics, and other organizations. The program is aligned with current labor market needs and deep and comprehensive FTA requirements related to animal health standards. As a result, the innovative Veterinary Nursing program developed by the university blends deep theoretical knowledge with strong practical experience. The program will also benefit state institutions as graduates will be qualified to take over the mandatory vaccination process, which requires a large number of veterinary specialists across the country.

This report was made possible with support from the American people through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The content of this report is the sole responsibility of IESC and does not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the U.S. government.