Cape Town, South Africa eagerly anticipates hosting the 39th World Veterinary Association Congress (WVAC2024) from April 16th to 19th, 2024, at the prestigious Cape Town International Convention Centre. This distinguished event, co-hosted by the South African Veterinary Association and the World Veterinary Association, invites you to embark on a journey of discovery, innovation, and resilience.

The congress theme, "Resilience in the Face of Adversity," encapsulates the essential qualities demanded of animal health professionals as they navigate the complexities of their profession. In an environment where difficult decisions, heartbreaking cases, and emotional challenges are commonplace, resilience emerges as a cornerstone of veterinary care. It's not merely about coping with the demands of the job, but also about maintaining empathy, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of animals and their human companions.

Attendees can expect an enriching program featuring leading speakers from around the globe, who will share the latest advancements and insights in veterinary medicine. With over 430 abstracts received from 33 countries across 5 continents, the scientific program promises to be diverse, comprehensive, and impactful. From plenary sessions to parallel breakout sessions, covering a myriad of topics, attendees will have the opportunity to delve into the forefront of veterinary science and practice.

Moreover, the congress will play host to several co-located events, including the 10th WVA Global One Health Summit, the WVA – Animal Welfare Seminar, and a Round Table on AMR in Veterinary Education. These sessions, alongside the WVAC2024 program, will foster interdisciplinary collaboration, knowledge exchange, and collective action towards addressing global veterinary challenges.

Join us in Cape Town for an unforgettable experience where resilience, innovation, and camaraderie converge to shape the future of veterinary medicine. We look forward to welcoming you to WVAC2024 and embracing the spirit of resilience together.

The WVAC2024 promises an exceptional program tailored to the interests of veterinarians worldwide. Highlights include:

1. Scientific program: Featuring over 430 abstracts from 33 countries and 5 continents, the congress will offer a comprehensive scientific agenda covering a wide range of topics in veterinary medicine.

2. The 10th WVA Global One Health Summit will convene experts from diverse fields to explore the intricate links between human, animal, and environmental health, tackling urgent global health issues. With participation from the Quadripartite, the summit's theme is "Coordinated & Sustainable Actions to Contain Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)."

3. A specialized seminar on animal welfare, jointly organized by WOAH and WVA, will focus on "International Trade and Animal Welfare Standards."

4. WVA Awards, supported by CEVA: The WVAC2024 will host the prestigious WVA Global Veterinary Awards, supported by Ceva Santé Animale, recognizing outstanding contributions to veterinary medicine, one health, medicines, and animal welfare.

These key components of the congress program underscore its commitment to advancing veterinary knowledge, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and honouring excellence within the profession. Attendees can expect a stimulating and rewarding experience at WVAC2024.