Partnering with Puducherry, India
Drs. Sanjeev Narayanan and Keith Hamilton recently returned from a visit to the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research (RIVER) in Puducherry, India, where they are working to build collaborative projects for the College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University for the benefit of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) and Master of Public Health (MPH) students.
Dr. Hamilton, executive director of International Programs in the veterinary college, explained that one advantage of developing a relationship with RIVER is that it would provide opportunities for DVM students to experience a high caseload and a wide range of diverse clinical presentations, which they would not commonly see in the United States. He said students would learn about different production systems and see huge biodiversity amongst local livestock populations.
RIVER boasts excellent facilities including large and small animal hospitals, research and diagnostic laboratories, and animal and crop production units. Participating students would develop an understanding about the importance of community engagement and have an opportunity to get involved in some of the extension projects that RIVER runs. Like Kansas State University, RIVER is linked to an agricultural college, providing students with the opportunity to learn about sustainable production tailored to a different environment.
The institute provides the infrastructure to support student exchanges including comfortable accommodation and highly experienced teaching faculty.
Dr. Narayanan anticipates this will be the first visit of many in the coming years. In the summer of 2017, he plans to visit again with the first group of K-State students.
“I’m excited about this opportunity for our students to expand their outlook and strengthen their problem solving skills in this stimulating and welcoming environment” said Dr. Narayanan, who is a professor in the Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology.
Dr. Ellyn Mulcahy, director of the MPH program, sees this as an excellent opportunity for MPH students.
“By working with RIVER faculty and developing relationships with extension and local public health professionals in Puducherry, we could develop some really interesting, impactful and worthwhile MPH Capstone and research projects,” she said.
Dr. Hamilton added, “We are specifically looking to develop opportunities for K-State CVM students and faculty to broaden their personal and professional horizons by spending time in exotic locations which also offer support of local faculty and infrastructure. Opportunities could include research projects, faculty and student exchanges, and externships.”
Puducherry is located on the coast, not far from the city of Chennai. It is a welcoming town with outstanding ambiance, food and culture, frequented by many tourists, particularly from France.
Puducherry is located on the coast, not far from the city of Chennai. It is a welcoming town with outstanding ambiance, food and culture, frequented by many tourists, particularly from France.