Views on the future of veterinary education

In briefly reviewing the history of veterinary education, particularly that in England, the enduring influence education has on the achievements and status of the profession is emphasised. The sound influence of the first teachers in South Africa, under the guidance of men like Theiler and subsequently du Toit, on veterinary education is outlined. The changes that have taken place in the face of altered demands, from that required by a predominantly State-employed profession to one consisting mainly of private practitioners but with ever-expanding fields of activity, necessitates continual attention to thorough teaching in the basic subjects, to the discipline as against the species approach--the latter being of value, however, when applying preventive medicine to herds/flocks, to a uniform undergraduate curriculum, and to foreseeing and providing adequate, specialised post-graduate education. The present under-graduate course has been extended from five to five-and-a-half years and the South African student enrollment to 90/a. Furthermore, more time will be found by already starting the teaching of Anatomy in the first year, thus providing for a final year of "student-internship". A completely newly planned faculty complex at a more favourable site is a necessity; clinical assistants will haevto be employed. More attention must be given to Public Health and Food Hygiene. Facilities for training Black studnets is a first priority in providing for additional student enrollment. Despite all modern teaching aids, the teacher must always play a vital key role.