10 June 2013 - Recognizing the desperate shortage of trained teachers at Jonglei State's only university, UNMISS has been providing the Bor institution with free veterinary classes.

The mission's Indian Battalion is responding to a request by Vice-Chancellor Professor Aggrey Ayuen Majok for guest lectures at various colleges of Dr. John Garang University of Science and Technology.

The veterinary classes are being provided for five final year students at the Department of Agriculture and Animal Production by Lt-Col Shiba Kumar Mishra, Civil Military Coordination (CIMIC) and veterinary officer.

"The Indian Battalion is committed (to) a long-term capacity building programme with John Garang University by providing guest lectures," Lt. Col. Mishra said.

"Whatever little you get from any corner is good," said Vice-Chancellor Majork. "(A) young Indian ... is giving lectures in the area of Animal Production ... We are not paying anything to them."

Topics covered in the classes include principles of animal management, common diseases and their prevention as well as treatment and latest advances in veterinary science.

The students are also receiving practical training at the Indian vet clinic in Bor, a free facility run by the battalion for area animals.