Leadership in Veterinary Services training programme

Leadership in Veterinary Services Training Programme Strengthens Regional Capacity in Southeast Asia and the Pacific

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) convened the Leadership in Veterinary Services Training Programme in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from 25 to 27 March 2026, bringing together veterinary professionals from South East Asia and the Pacific to strengthen leadership competencies essential for effective animal health governance and emergency management. The workshop followed a mandatory online learning phase launched on 18 February 2026 as part of a blended learning programme combining eLearning and face-to-face training.

Supported by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the programme was designed for intermediate-level leaders within official Veterinary Services and focused on strengthening the skills required to lead teams, coordinate operations, make informed decisions, manage conflict, and engage stakeholders in both routine and emergency situations.

Animal health challenges across the region, including African swine fever (ASF), foot and mouth disease (FMD), lumpy skin disease (LSD), peste des petits ruminants (PPR), and rabies, continue to highlight the need for effective leadership within Veterinary Services. Through a combination of online learning, case studies, simulations, and group exercises, participants explored practical leadership approaches relevant to the complex and rapidly changing environments in which Veterinary Authorities operate.

Objectives

The programme aimed to strengthen participants’ ability to:

Lead and motivate teams effectively;
Communicate and collaborate with diverse stakeholders;
Analyse challenges and make accountable decisions;
Resolve conflicts and foster productive working relationships;
Enhance regional cooperation and peer learning among Veterinary Services.

Regional participation

The training programme brought together representatives from 11 WOAH Members across South East Asia and the Pacific:

Fiji, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vanuatu and Viet Nam.

Building future veterinary leaders

Participants completed the WOAH Leadership in Veterinary Services eLearning module before attending the workshop, ensuring a common foundation of knowledge and allowing the in-person sessions to focus on practical application, discussion, and problem-solving. The programme also contributes to the development of a stronger regional network of veterinary leaders who can support one another in addressing transboundary animal diseases, zoonoses, and other emerging threats.

By investing in leadership development, WOAH continues to support Veterinary Services across Asia and the Pacific in building resilient institutions capable of protecting animal health, supporting livelihoods, and contributing to public health and food security.