The well-being of veterinarians is enhanced when diversity, equity and inclusion are promoted

The theme for World Veterinary Day-2023 is ‘Promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness in the Veterinary Profession’. World Veterinary Day was first celebrated on April 29, 2000, as an initiative by the World Veterinary Association (WVA). Since then, it has been observed every year on the last Saturday of April, with a different theme chosen each year to highlight a specific aspect of veterinary science.
World Veterinary Day is the day for veterinarians to celebrate whether in colleges or within the department. The day is observed by conducting seminars, essay writing competitions, workshops, clinical camps, vaccination drives, awareness camps, issuing advisories and newsletters and so on.
Diversity is the hallmark of the veterinary profession as vets deal with a variety of animal species including mammals, birds, reptiles, etc. Veterinary professionals, both males and females, play different roles; be it clinicians, administrators, public health experts, researchers, teachers, trainers, extension agents of schemes and perform other assignments too whenever asked for.
Diversity vis-a-vis talents, thoughts, opinions and viewpoints is important not only for healthy debates and discussions but also for the progress of any profession and needs to be promoted. The essence of equity is to provide equal opportunities to all and is fundamental to any organisation including veterinary profession. Inclusiveness demands that all members of a profession should feel that they are valued and included.
Equity and inclusiveness need promotion not only vis-a-vis veterinarians but down the line too. Though vets act as supervisors, the role of para vets, attendants and other staff members too is important in the execution and implementation of different assignments and tasks. They too need to be taken on board and should feel included for better outcomes.
The well-being of all veterinarians whether studying or working in colleges or departments is enhanced when diversity, equity and inclusion are promoted as well as applied. The veterinary associations have an important role to play in this whether student association, departmental or university scientists association.
The author is a veterinarian. Feedback at [email protected]

Dr Zubair Ahmad War