A firm foundation has been laid for the possible establishment of a veterinary school at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) campus in Mahikeng. Once approved, it will be one of only two in the country. Prof Mulunda Mwanza, an associate professor and head of the School of Animal Health on the campus, has confirmed the awarding of European Union Erasmus Funding to the tune of 31 554 Euros.

According to Prof Mwanza, this financial injection will facilitate collaboration between the NWU and the University of Glasgow. It will enable academics from both institutions to collaborate, visit and learn from each other. Prof Mwanza says it’s critical that the staff from the School of Animal Health receive necessary training while the university awaits feedback from relevant authorities on its application for the establishment of a veterinary school.

“We want to build our staff’s capacity so that they are prepared and empowered. I think it’s a good move and we hope the university will support us. We’re really looking forward to having a veterinary school,” says Prof Mwanza.