The University of Reading is offering an online animal science course to raise awareness of antimicrobial resistance in livestock production. The course, entitled ‘Contemporary Issues in Animal Science’, is an easily accessible way for anybody working with livestock, at any point in the supply chain, to develop their understanding of animal science and antimicrobial resistance.
The course will also focus on how producers can minimise the negative environmental and health impacts associated with using antibiotics in livestock production. “Issues such as antimicrobial resistance are frequently covered in the news but information to help those involved in the food chain is not easy to find. This course wraps up the key topics and offers those who attend a chance to broaden their understanding and apply their knowledge to help improve livestock production practices. This is an excellent opportunity to understand how to balance sustainability and science with everyday farming issues such as the use of antibiotics,” said Dr Rachael Neal, the course tutor.
Access to the course material will also provide farmers and producers with an insight into how a precision farming approach will help tackle other critical challenges including the environmental footprint of livestock production and higher standards of animal welfare.
More information about the Contemporary Issues in Animal Science course can be found at https://www.aftp.co.uk/course/contemporary-issues-animal-science