The Central Luzon State University (CLSU) together with the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI) inaugurated the Center for Transboundary Animal Diseases (CenTraD) today, June 11.
The Center was established to be the lead agency for risk analysis, investigation, diagnosis, mapping, and emergency management of Transboundary Animal Diseases (TADs) in the country. It is a 200 million pesos DA-BAI funded-project spearheaded by Dr. Virginia Venturina, Dean of the College of Veterinary Science and Medicine (CVSM).
University President Edgar A. Orden, in his welcome remarks, recognized the strong partnership of CLSU and DA. He also gave the assurance that CenTraD shall be an excellent support arm of the DA-BAI. Moreso, he commended the initiative of CVSM in carrying the vision of the university in bringing excellence in service to the community.
President Orden highlighted that “CenTraD – like the other specialized centers in the university, started with a vision - a vision to generate knowledge and technologies for inclusive societal development, and a vision to contribute and empower the community.”
Meanwhile, Dr. William D. Dar, DA Secretary along with other DA officials from the different attached agencies and LGU officials from the Science City of Muñoz graced the event.
In his speech, Secretary Dar applauded CLSU for always being up for the challenge and for delivering good results.
“I would like to congratulate the men and women of CLSU and DA and those who initiated the completion of this facility even with the restriction of COVID -19 pandemic,” he quipped.
As a project proponent of CenTraD, Dr. Venturina presented the different studies and projects of CLSU about animal diseases including the development of Masti-Check, Andali Test kit, and Nanogold biosensor test kit which helped in controlling transboundary diseases wherein all these are funded by the DA.
To cap off the event, a technology exhibit was open for public viewing.
