Estonian University of Life Sciences hosts iPLEX Med Vet for the first time

This year's theme focused on wildlife veterinary medicine. The programme included visits to Tallinn Zoo, where Kristel Nemvalts introduced the zoo's conservation and rehabilitation work with the European mink and the garden dormouse. Students also visited the Meenikunno wetland, where they explored the area together with university ecologist Dr Lauri Saks. Other highlights included a visit to the Räpina polders and the opportunity to experience the traditional Estonian suitsusaun (smoke sauna).

Participants also toured the large animal, small animal and wildlife clinics of the Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences.

The organisers would like to thank the course facilitators Maria Pereira, João Urze de Almeida and Anette Matto, the visiting professors Erica Marchiori, Augusto Faustino and Luís Pinho, as well as Karoli Kõiv for her administrative support. Their contributions played an important role in making this year's course a success.

Students shared very positive feedback about their experience:

"I've really appreciated all the activities and people were awesome! It is a precious thing to have the possibility to learn and have fun at the same time."

"I loved meeting new people and having the opportunity to discuss this year's topics with them. Everything was organised very well, and the activities were both interesting and enjoyable."

"The case studies were really interesting. I especially enjoyed the discussions with other participants and the brainstorming activities."

"I really enjoyed taking part in iPlex, especially the in-person part of the programme. It was very well balanced between learning and networking in a fun atmosphere."