$5 million funding towards new vet school

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Monday, 29 October 2007

The capital funding for the University of Adelaide's planned new veterinary science school is secured with the State Government's announcement today of a $5 million grant.

South Australian Premier Mike Rann and Further Education Minister Paul Caica made the announcement this morning during a visit to see where the vet school will be based at the University's Roseworthy Campus.

The State funding follows on from an earlier $15 million funded by the Federal Government. A further $10 million will be invested in capital works by the University.

University Chancellor the Hon. John von Doussa said: "This State Government funding means the last piece of capital funding is now in place. The University Council is very grateful for the support of the State Government in this significant development for the University and for the State."

There is already strong demand for entry to the vet school. Applications so far stand at 149 first preference applicants for 40 places in the University's three-year pre-veterinary Animal Science undergraduate degree starting next year. There will be 50 places a year for the postgraduate veterinary science degree starting in 2011.

University of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha said: "The University is keen to help meet unmet national demand for veterinary science and, in particular, to address the serious shortage of rural-based vets in South Australia.

"As well as a broad training in veterinary science, veterinary students at the University of Adelaide will have a unique focus on the needs of Australian livestock production, equine health, aquaculture and biosecurity industries.

"The University's Roseworthy Campus already has a strong international brand in agriculture and animal science research and teaching. Adding veterinary science to its programs will help cement its place as a leader in science, research and innovation for the State's animal health and agricultural industries."

A recommendation for final approval for the establishment of the vet school will go before University Council.

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