Partnership with Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University strengthens FAI’s tilapia welfare work

By securing a new, official partnership with Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, tilapia welfare experts FAI are further advancing fish welfare practices among Egyptian veterinary professionals, students and farmers. 

Combining forces with Ethical Seafood Research (ESR), Egypt's Central Laboratory for Aquaculture Research (CLAR), Aquavet Egypt, and Kafr El Sheikh University, Cairo University joins a long list of prestigious organisations working with FAI as part of their ongoing Tilapia Welfare Project in Egypt. 

“As the demand for fish continues to rise, our graduates must prioritise fish welfare to ensure the health and productivity of farmed fish,” explained Professor Haitham M. Amer, Vice Dean of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research, and Professor of Virology at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University. “Educating future veterinarians about fish health and wellbeing is important as we work to improve the sustainability of aquaculture practices, the effective management of disease and protection of ecosystems.”

By focusing on fish welfare, the new partnership aims to improve the health and performance of fish in aquaculture farms across Egypt, ultimately supporting the production of high-quality protein and contributing to national food security.  

“As one of the world's top three tilapia producers, Egypt is well-positioned to lead the way in implementing enhanced welfare practices,” added FAI’s COO, Murilo Quintiliano. “This partnership represents a milestone in our journey towards sustainable, ethical aquaculture in the region. By customising welfare practices to meet Egypt's unique needs, we’ll help the country become a global leader in tilapia welfare and improve the lives of countless fish.”   

The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Cairo University, based in Giza, is renowned for its commitment to advancing veterinary education and research. Ranking amongst the top veterinary schools in Africa, and one of the longest established, the faculty is dedicated to improving animal health.  It does this through an emphasis on research aimed at enhancing the long-term sustainability and productivity of the Egyptian aquaculture sector. 

“This collaboration will not only enhance the education of our students but also strengthen the connection between academia and the industry,” concluded Professor Amer. “Veterinarians play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing health issues directly impacting fish welfare.

"By engaging with FAI's global expertise in fish management and welfare, we’re raising awareness about the importance of the humane treatment of fish. We know this will not only benefit the fish under a farmer’s care, but also the profitability of individual farms and success of the overall aquaculture sector. We look forward to seeing how far the partnership can develop into the future.”

The Tilapia Welfare Project in Egypt was launched in early 2024 and integrates FAI’s Tilapia Welfare App and free e-learning courses available through FAI Academy to provide fish farmers with effective tools and knowledge for assessing and managing fish welfare.