On 23 April, MeAVeAS moves beyond the conference room for a full day of practical activities, visits and conversations with researchers. Reflecting the congress’s integration of veterinary medicine, animal science and engineering, the programme will highlight how technological tools and engineering approaches support clinical practice, animal research and sustainable production. The morning will take place in Ozzano dell’Emilia; in the afternoon, we will continue in Cesenatico to explore the University’s aquaculture facilities.

At the Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET) and nearby University facilities, participants will have opportunities to:

• Try clinical simulation at the Clinical Skills Lab, using models and realistic scenarios to explore veterinary procedures and decision-making, with attention to the role of simulation technologies in practical training.
• Discover clinical practice and innovation at the “Giuseppe Gentile” Veterinary Teaching Hospital, with a focus on the interaction between veterinary expertise, diagnostic technologies and clinical equipment.
• Explore pig research facilities and discuss technologies and experimental approaches for animal feeding, health, management and welfare, including the role of monitoring tools and the design of experimental systems.
• See poultry research in action with the DISTAL Poultry Production Quality and Food Safety Lab, where research connects production systems, animal welfare, product quality and food safety. Discussions will highlight how technological approaches can support the assessment and management of these systems.
• Experience precision dairy farming at the experimental dairy facility, supported by University Agricultural Farm (A.U.B.). Discover how sensors and automated systems help monitor cow behaviour, feeding, milk production and the barn environment, and discuss how the data they generate can support animal management and the development of engineering solutions.

At the University of Bologna’s Cesenatico campus, participants will explore aquaculture laboratories and experimental facilities, including recirculating aquaculture systems. The visit will connect fish health, nutrition and welfare with the engineering of water recirculation, treatment and environmental control, offering a chance to discuss their contribution to sustainable production with the researchers working in these fields.

Throughout the day, practical activities and demonstrations will give participants the chance to engage with technologies, ask questions and exchange knowledge across veterinary medicine, animal science and engineering. Particular attention will be given to how veterinary and animal science needs inform technological development and how engineering solutions can be assessed in clinical and production settings.

The programme will also include convivial moments over lunch and dinner at local restaurants, offering time to continue conversations in a relaxed setting and enjoy the food and hospitality of the region. Leisure activities will be organised for accompanying guests of conference delegates.

Participation in the post-conference activities requires a small additional fee, which is not included in the congress registration fee. Please refer to the REGISTRATION page [link to be added] for all details on fees and payment. Further information on the activity schedule and travel between venues will be announced soon.

For further information about the post-conference activities, please contact Damiano Cavallini, Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna: damiano.cavallini@unibo.it