In addition to the widely known problem of qualified Vets emigrating overseas, in her parliamentary reply, Minister Didiza indicated that the persistent vacancy problem in the sector is caused by a constant efflux of state veterinarians who are being recruited by the private sector and challenges to get suitably qualified applicants.
According to the Minister, what is more, alarming is that this Vet shortage has been a recurring problem over the past 5 years. In fact, as noted by the Minister in her reply, the country has recorded a Vet vacancy rate of 38% over the past 5 years. With South Africa constantly having animal disease outbreaks, such as foot and mouth disease, it is concerning that we are unable to find professionals with the requisite skills set to keep the national stock healthy.
The decision by Home Affairs to remove Veterinary doctors from the critical skills list was ill-thought and should be reversed as a matter of urgency. By placing Vets back on the critical skills list, South Africa will be able to attract qualified foreign professionals to temporarily fill the skills gap while we train our own local talent for this vital function.