Due to technology and online learning, it has become much easier to study online. Added to that, it has also become more affordable to study for an internationally recognised qualification. But, before you enrol for undergraduate studies or decide to specialise in a veterinary-related field, find out if the qualification is eligible for registration with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) to practice legally in South Africa.
Online qualifications
“There are a number of international universities offering online degrees in the veterinary or para-veterinary professions, sometimes even at master’s or PhD level. While some of these are reputable qualifications, obtaining them will generally not allow you to practise in South Africa or be recognised for purposes of specialisation in a particular discipline,” says Mpho Mojanaga, Director of Registrations at the SAVC.
“Studying abroad will also not necessarily allow veterinarians to practise in South Africa unless there is a mutual recognition agreement in place between the veterinary council in the country where you studied and the SAVC. Even so, there are only specific institutions and veterinary qualifications that qualify, para-veterinary qualifications do not qualify. If you do not have one of these qualifications, but hold another foreign qualification, you will be required to write and pass the SAVC registration examination – irrespective of whether you are a South African or foreign national,” warns Mpho.
Registration exam
Leonie Westcott, Director Education at the SAVC says that there are currently a number of South African veterinary graduates who have to take the registration examination as the international institutions where they studied are not recognised by SAVC. Just because they are South African citizens, it doesn’t automatically allow them to practice in South Africa.
According to Leonie your first port of call is to go to the SAVC website, www.savc.org.za. Under the Professions tab, there is a link to student information under each profession, where you can find SAVC-accredited qualifications. Information about the registration examination can also be found on the website.
“It is best to contact the SAVC if you have any queries about qualifications before you start any studies. It is also important to establish that you are embarking on your studies at a reputable training institution. In South Africa, all tertiary training institutions have to be registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET),” says Leonie.
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