Animal Sciences

Brief History 
The beginning of the present department of animal science at JUCAVM is with the set up of the then Jimma Agricultural Technical School (JATS) in 1952.
The early years of the Department were concerned with the training of students in general agriculture and plant sciences diploma students. Courses and curricula were developed to meet this goal. In reality the Department evolved over a period of time, and 1990 appears to be the time when the Department started to enroll animal science students. That is, the Department Animal Science initiated diploma students training program in animal science in 1990.
In the diploma program, which lasted from 1990 to 2002, a total of 236 students have graduated from the department. The diploma program has phased out in 2002 for the obvious reason that universities are handing over diploma training to colleges based on the new government policy. The department of animal science made its first stride in 2003 in opening bachelor program in the field of Animal Production and Health (B.Sc in Agricultural Teachers Education). This program has phased out starting 2006 to change the program to animal science.
Due to high demand for Animal Science graduates in the country, the department developed new curriculum in animal science and started new program in 2006 to train students in animal science.

Vision
We desire to be center of excellence in offering modern education, conducting need driven and problem solving research and dissemination of knowledge in animal agriculture and to see that the graduates of Animal Sciences will be the complete equipped personnel of high creativity in the area of sciences (Animal production, genetics and animal breeding, animal biotechnology, bee keeping, feeds and nutrition, range management and others related activities).

Mission
The missions of the Department of Animal Sciences are to educate individuals (students) to anticipate and effectively respond to challenges facing the national and global animal industries, to facilitate scientific research and technology transfer for efficient and sustainable production of high quality animal products with optimal animal well-being, enhancement of the human diet, and advancement of sound environmental practices and apply this knowledge to benefit society through the efficient, humane, and environmentally responsible use of animals for food and cash and recreation.