PROVACUNO and the National Veterinary Corps Association (ACNV) have signed a collaboration agreement to develop “Nexo Vacuno,” a training program for ACNV veterinarians. The initiative aims to supplement the rigorous technical training of these national-level veterinarians with specialized, up-to-date, and practical knowledge regarding the structure, supply chain stages, operations, and key challenges of the beef sector.
“Many technical professionals join government ministries or regional authorities without having in-depth knowledge of farms or meat processing facilities, and without established ties to industry organizations. The goal of ‘Nexo Vacuno’ is to improve their understanding of the sector, thereby facilitating administrative and regulatory decision-making, enhancing dialogue between the public administration and the industry, and strengthening the ability to respond to crisis situations that require a holistic view of the production system,” explains Javier López, Director of PROVACUNO.
“For the National Veterinary Corps Association, ‘Nexo Vacuno’ addresses a need we have long identified. Visiting a farm with suckler cows, touring a feedlot, or following the entire process within a meat processing plant provides a perspective that no textbook or syllabus can replicate—one that leads to more precise, practical, and effective decision-making. Yet, this program goes beyond mere training: it is an opportunity to build mutual trust, allowing farmers, the industry, and the public administration to get to know one another better and learn to work together,” adds Esperanza Orellana, President of the ACNV.
An eminently practical training program
The program will be held twice a year, with each edition spanning two days. It will consist primarily of hands-on, practical training experiences, complemented by some theoretical components. This practical module will include guided, informative visits to facilities representative of the sector:
- An extensive suckler cow farm, focusing on pasture-based management, as well as economic, health, and animal welfare management in the field.
- A feedlot, providing insight into fattening facilities, livestock management, feeding practices, control systems, environmental compliance, record-keeping, and official inspections.
- A meat processing facility, with a tour covering every stage of the process.
- And, as a supplementary element—wherever feasible—a by-product management facility or an agricultural biogas plant.
“Nexo Vacuno,” which will begin in the first quarter of 2027, will take place at various locations across the country, allowing participants to gain an understanding of the diverse realities found in different regions.
