The Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases (DVTD) at the University of Pretoria is offering fully funded WAAVP-AN scholarship opportunities to professionals working in veterinary parasitology laboratories across Africa.

This programme aims to build capacity in diagnostic laboratory techniques, Field-based animal health care, and livestock production with a focus on key areas of veterinary protozoology, ectoparasitology, and helminthology. The training is designed to support continuing education, professional development, and strengthening of parasitology networks in Africa.

What the Training Covers

The training will take place at the University of Pretoria, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Onderstepoort Campus in South Africa. The First group will attend during June–July, and the second group during November–December. Exact dates will be communicated to selected candidates.

Participants will receive theoretical and practical training in the following areas:

• Diagnosis and identification of protozoa and rickettsial pathogens affecting livestock
• Veterinary ectoparasitology – Focus on tsetse Flies and trypanosomosis
• Molecular and serological diagnostic tools for tick-borne pathogens
• Identification of ticks and mites of veterinary/medical significance
• Identification of Flies, lice, Fleas, and bugs
• Diagnosis and identification of nematodes, cestodes, and trematodes
• Field-based training in Primary Animal Health Care and livestock production systems

Participants will be expected to successfully complete the prerequisite online assignments prior to attending the practical component in Pretoria.

Who Should Apply?

Laboratory technicians, scientists, or veterinarians currently working in:

• Veterinary parasitology or tropical disease diagnostic laboratories
• National or regional animal health laboratories
• Agricultural or veterinary research institutes focused on animal health
• Veterinary teaching or research institutions in Africa

Junior to mid-career professionals who are:

• Actively involved in the diagnosis of or research on protozoan, ectoparasitic, or helminthic diseases
• Interested in applying molecular, serological, or entomological techniques in disease diagnostics
• Supporting or leading livestock health programmes that address parasitic disease burdens

Minimum Academic Qualifications:

Academic Background:

A diploma or bachelor’s degree is required in one of the following areas:

• Veterinary Science
• Animal Health
• Biological Sciences
• Parasitology or related Life Sciences

Work Experience & Skills:

• At least 1–2 years of practical experience in a veterinary parasitology or diagnostic lab
• Basic microscopy and laboratory diagnostic skills for identifying parasites
• Familiarity with major parasitic diseases of ruminants and livestock in Africa
• Experience or interest in molecular and serological diagnostics is a plus
• Ability to communicate effectively in English (the language of instruction)

Eligibility: 

• Must be a citizen of an African country
• Must be available for full-time attendance at the Onderstepoort campus for the full 4-week training period (Group 1: 22 June-17 July; Group 2: 8 Nov-4 Dec 2026)

What the Scholarship Covers

• Full tuition fees
• Travel expenses (to and from South Africa)
• Accommodation and meals in Pretoria for the duration of the programme

How to apply

Interested candidates are invited to make an online submission. The following documents will be required:

• A concise CV (1-2 pages)
• Certified academic records
• A motivation letter explaining your interest in the training and its relevance to your current work
• Two academic reference letters (strongly encouraged and considered an advantage during selection)

 NB: ALL APPLICATIONS MUST BE IN ENGLISH. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Deadline for submission: 3 March 2026.