NUBIP Student Gains International Clinical Experience in Croatia Through the Erasmus+ Programme
Kateryna Mitkevych, a fourth-year student at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine (NUBIP), completed an international academic mobility programme at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Croatia, from 16 February to 15 July 2026 as part of the Erasmus+ programme.
Practice-Oriented Veterinary Education
An important component of the mobility experience was the combination of theoretical learning with extensive clinical practice. Kateryna deepened her knowledge of internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics, and reproductive medicine while working with both small and large animals in the university’s clinical departments.
During her surgical placement, the student participated in clinical case management, observed initial patient examinations, diagnostic procedures, surgical interventions, and postoperative care. In particular, she assisted during an operation to remove tumours from a dog that had undergone computed tomography (CT) before surgery.
Special attention was also given to diagnostic skills, including ultrasound examinations and ophthalmological tests. This experience helped her gain a better understanding of comprehensive veterinary examinations and the daily responsibilities of veterinary practitioners in clinical settings.
Practical Training in Large Animal Medicine and Reproduction
The training programme included field visits to farms and equestrian facilities. Kateryna participated in examinations of cattle, reproductive management of cows, and assessments of the reproductive systems of mares.
One of the most valuable experiences was performing artificial insemination on a heifer under the supervision of a professor. These practical sessions provided first-hand experience of veterinary work in farm settings and helped strengthen the skills essential for her future professional career.
An International Professional Environment
The programme brought together students from different countries, including the United Kingdom, France, North Macedonia, Norway, and others. Studying in this international environment helped Kateryna improve her professional English, develop teamwork skills, and exchange knowledge and experience with fellow veterinary students.
During her stay in Zagreb, Kateryna also attended international veterinary conferences covering various fields of veterinary medicine, including infectious diseases, internal medicine, laboratory diagnostics, obstetrics, and orthopaedics.
New Opportunities for Professional Development
Participation in the Erasmus+ programme marked an important milestone in Kateryna Mitkevych’s professional and personal development. The mobility experience allowed her to explore veterinary education and clinical practice in another European country, expand her practical competencies, and gain new perspectives for her future studies and career.
Her experience demonstrates the importance of international academic mobility in educating future veterinarians, strengthening intercultural communication, and bringing veterinary education closer to European approaches and professional practices.
The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at NUBIP Ukraine continues to support international cooperation and student participation in academic mobility programmes, creating new opportunities for learning, knowledge exchange, and professional growth.
