The World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) successfully conducted Phase 2 of its Veterinary Paraprofessional (VPP) Curriculum Support Mission in Georgia from 9 to 13 February 2026, following a preparatory pre-webinar on 2 February. The mission aims to strengthen veterinary paraprofessional education and align national training programs with WOAH international standards and industry needs.
Led by Dr Heather Simmons, WOAH Team Leader, and supported by WOAH experts Dr Johan Oosthuizen and Dr Vasili Basiladze, the workshop brought together key national stakeholders, including CVO and delegate of WOAH, government representatives, educators, and animal health professionals. The program focused on reviewing Phase 1 findings, introducing WOAH curriculum development tools, and supporting stakeholders in mapping and refining veterinary paraprofessional curricula.
Over the five days, participants worked collaboratively to complete the Curriculum Mapping Tool (CAM), define competencies and learning outcomes, sequence courses, and develop curriculum learning forms. The workshop also addressed course structuring, practical training components, and assessment methods, ensuring curricula are competency-based and responsive to Georgia’s animal health sector needs.
The mission concluded with recommendations for continued curriculum enhancement and follow-up technical support. This initiative represents a significant step toward strengthening Georgia’s veterinary paraprofessional workforce and enhancing national capacity to support animal health, veterinary services, and public health outcomes.
WOAH remains committed to supporting its Members in building high-quality veterinary education systems that contribute to global animal health and welfare.
