Job Shadowing Visit to University of Helsinki: Advancing Equine Veterinary Training and Clinical Research

From October 14-18, 2024, veterinary specialists Egne Kahro and Julia Linek from the Estonian University of Life Sciences participated in a job shadowing visit at the University of Helsinki's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. This five-day program focused on best practices in equine clinical care and veterinary training, aiming to enhance veterinary education and research capabilities in Estonia.

Highlights of the Visit

Under the mentorship of Professor Heli Simojoki, Kahro and Linek observed Helsinki’s comprehensive clinical approach, working with a multidisciplinary team specializing in equine surgery, internal medicine, and ophthalmology. The program included hands-on experience with surgical preparation, lameness evaluations, diagnostic imaging, and case discussions in journal and book clubs with students and staff.

Key Learning Outcomes and Recommendations

The visit provided invaluable insights into veterinary clinical research, with a focus on equine asthma—a critical area for further study in Estonia. Inspired by Helsinki’s curriculum, recommendations were made to extend clinical training duration in Tartu and adopt a structured assignment checklist, ensuring students gain diverse practical experience during their rotations.

This job shadowing visit reflects the project’s ongoing commitment to fostering professional development and international knowledge transfer in veterinary medicine.