Astana, 20-22 November 2023
In a significant stride towards enhancing Veterinary Services, WOAH recently organized the PVS Strategic Planning Workshop in Kazakhstan upon its request. The event, held in the capital city of Astana, saw active participation from key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Defense, and various other authorities, associations, and agencies.
The workshop, a collaborative effort involving the Vice Minister of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Berdalin, served as a platform for strategic planning and discussions aimed at strengthening the National Veterinary Services in the region. Mr. Berdalin, inaugurating the event, set the tone for a productive and collaborative environment, emphasizing the importance of the workshop in advancing veterinary services in the animal health and production landscape.
Structured around group exercises and tailored to address the specific needs of National Veterinary Services, the workshop fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas and expertise among participants. The involvement of stakeholders from different governmental bodies underscored the comprehensive approach taken to formulate strategies that align with broader health, food security, and defence objectives.
The workshop’s discussions were guided by WOAH Experts and the Delegate, ensuring a well-informed and systematic approach to the strategic planning process. These facilitators played a crucial role in steering conversations, leveraging progress made, encouraging active participation, and drawing on the collective expertise of the diverse group of attendees.
One of the key outcomes of the workshop is the development of the first draft of the Strategic Plan for the country by WOAH Experts based on the PVS Gap Analysis report and discussions. This comprehensive document encapsulates the insights, recommendations, and strategic initiatives generated during the workshop. The report is expected to serve as a basis for the roadmap for the enhancement of National Veterinary Services in Kazakhstan, providing a blueprint for future development and collaboration. The draft strategic plan to be developed represents the culmination of many years of engagement with WOAH and the PVS Pathway.
The National Veterinary Services underwent an initial Evaluation of the performance of its Veterinary Services in 2007, followed by an Evaluation Follow-Up in 2011, a Gap Analysis in 2011, a second Evaluation Follow-Up in 2018, and a Gap Analysis Update in 2021. These reports, and, in particular, the Gap Analysis report, served as the main reference documents for the development of the draft strategic plan by participants during the workshop. Indeed, the key purpose of this new activity was to integrate and refine the PVS Gap Analysis findings and recommendations into a widely understood and accessible draft strategic plan.
A notable feature of the workshop was the collaborative spirit among participants, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the improved animal health in the region. The engagement of various stakeholders reflects a holistic approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges and opportunities within the veterinary sector.
Moving forward, the draft Strategic Plan will be adapted by the National Veterinary Services, and translated to the national language, further incorporating local insights and nuances. This collaborative effort ensures that the strategic plan is not only aligned with WOAH international standards but also tailored to the specific needs and priorities of Kazakhstan.
In conclusion, the PVS Strategic Planning Workshop in Kazakhstan marked a significant milestone in advancing Veterinary Services and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders. The commitment demonstrated by participants, coupled with the guidance of WOAH Experts, sets the stage for more robust and resilient National Veterinary Services in Kazakhstan, poised to address evolving challenges in animal health and welfare.
