Dear Esteemed Members of the Korean College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (KCLAM),
It is with great honor that I serve as the ninth president for the term 2024 to 2026. Since its establishment in 2006, KCLAM has been an effective and well-organized body with significant milestones, such as achieving significant milestones, such as institutionalizing the certification process for the Diplomate of the Korean College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (DKCLAM). My heartfelt gratitude goes out to the former organizing committee who dedicated their time to improving KCLAM.
KCLAM is dedicated to supporting scientific advancements through ethical animal experimentation. We are committed to advancing the professional development of laboratory animal veterinarians by offering top-tier educational and networking opportunities. KCLAM strives to broaden the potential of laboratory animal veterinarians by developing quality educational programs and professional training workshops. Experienced laboratory animal veterinarians are eager and willing to share their expertise with entry-level veterinarians. Therefore, KCLAM tries to implement programs that help junior veterinarians enhance their knowledge by providing hands-on experiences from qualified experts.
Under the current legal framework, laboratory animals are protected by the Animal Protection Act and the Laboratory Animal Act. KCLAM aims to gather insights from laboratory animal veterinarians on this legislation to improve animal welfare and affirm the crucial role of veterinarians in this field. Since April 17, 2024, the Attending Veterinarian (AV) system has been implemented, mandating the employment of a veterinarian in charge of animal welfare and ethics in facilities conducting animal experiments beyond a certain scale. KCLAM provides comprehensive legal education for AVs, along with continuous training to ensure our members are up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field. The ongoing job training program (LOOK: Laboratory animal veterinarian On the job training Of KCLAM), initiated in 2022, aims to enhance the practical skills of Avs, facilitate effective communication among them, and apply these skills practically.
Moreover, KCLAM is committed to fostering and strengthening international collaborations with global associations such as the International Association of Colleges of Laboratory Animal Medicine (IACLAM), the European College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ECLAM), the Japanese College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (JCLAM), and the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ACLAM).
I am confident that through our collective efforts, KCLAM's influence and impact will grow even further. I encourage each of you to actively engage in KCLAM's activities, join discussions, contribute to committee work, and voice your support for the rights and advancement of laboratory animal veterinarians. I eagerly look forward to working with you and learning from your unique insights to enrich and expand our community.
Respectfully,
Ki Taek Nam, D.V.M., Ph.D., DKCLAM
Ninth President, 2024-2026