Veterinary Technologist

The main duties of the veterinary technologist cover diagnostic work, research and the preparation of veterinary biological products. The veterinary technologist’s task is to help determine the cause(s) of sickness or death of animals by conducting tests. He/she performs duties under the supervision of a professional scientist or veterinary surgeon.

Job Characteristics

• Executing laboratory procedures, handling and injecting animals to draw blood and to take other samples.



• Conducting problem-oriented research on the causes of animal disease, methods of transmission, the specific effects on normal physiological processes and the most effective ways of preventing or combating disease in animals.



• Preparing biological products such as antigens (for diagnostic tests) and vaccines (for the prevention of diseases).

Requirements

Secondary Education
Possession of at least a HIGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, with matriculation exemption, as well as Mathematics and Physical Science on HIGCSE-level are required to be admitted to the Technikon Pretoria. Candidates will have to go through a selection procedure.

Compulsory subjects
Mathematics, Physical Science and Biology (South Africa)

Tertiary Education
The N. Dip.: Veterinary Technology is offered at the Technikon Pretoria only. The duration of training is three years ; four semesters formal training and two semesters experiential training at an approved laboratory or employer. Further qualifications are a B. Tech., M. Tech. and D. Tech. Veterinary in Technology, offered by the Technikon Pretoria.

Personality
The prospective candidate should be scientifically-minded, dexterous, observant and methodical, with a flair for laboratory work.

Work Opportunities
Veterinary technologists are employed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Rural Development, research laboratories and in private practices. They can also run their own laboratories. Job opportunities in Namibia seem to be good.

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