Advanced animal biotechnology, reproductive technologies, research, training and community engagement.
CEAAR is an animal biotechnology, research and training centre supporting livestock reproduction, postgraduate development and regional innovation.
The Centre of Excellence in Animal Assisted Reproduction (CEAAR), within the Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture at the University of Venda, is an advanced animal biotechnology, research and training facility based in Thohoyandou, South Africa.
CEAAR is a centre for training, research, services, postgraduate and postdoctoral study. Its Biotechnology Laboratory is positioned in the northern part of South Africa in a green subtropical environment.
The Centre specialises in animal assisted reproductive technologies (ART) that are relevant and applicable to emerging livestock breeders in South Africa. CEAAR also collaborates with several institutions in South Africa and abroad.
CEAAR brings together modern biotechnology infrastructure, livestock facilities and specialist research expertise.
A state-of-the-art animal biotechnology laboratory supporting advanced reproductive research and training.
Small and large livestock feedlots, piggery, poultry houses and a dedicated mice colony.
Supporting livestock production, animal science research and practical training.
Providing a practical environment for livestock, animal health and meat-related research activities.
A dedicated team developing improved methods and techniques for fertility and reproduction in livestock.
CEAAR provides hands-on training workshops every three months in specialised animal assisted reproductive technologies.
Collection, evaluation, extension and freeze-storage for bulls, rams and bucks.
Synchronisation and artificial insemination using appropriate methods.
Multi-ovulation, embryo collection, evaluation, handling, freezing, thawing and transfer for cows, sheep and goats.
IVMFC and in vitro fertilisation procedures in cows and mice.
Intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection of cow and mice oocytes.
Practical ultrasound scanning and its applications in animal reproduction.
Assisted hatching of blastocyst-stage embryos in cows, goats and mice.
Training in laparoscopy techniques and their applications.
CEAAR strives to strengthen its research, education and community impact across the region.
Strengthen community-based outreach programmes and services.
Develop feasible and sustainable income-generation projects.
Sustain and enhance research capacity and develop superior postgraduate programmes.
Develop and strengthen linkages with institutions aligned to CEAAR's vision and mission.
Recruit and retain qualified undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Recruit and retain qualified academic and technical staff.
Develop career-focused programmes.
Be a Centre of Excellence in Animal Assisted Reproductive Technologies in SADC.
CEAAR runs monthly lectures covering livestock production and reproduction, parasite control, health care, nutrition, identification, poultry and pig production, and other important areas of animal production.
The Centre also provides practical training to emerging red-meat producers in heat detection, animal health, vaccination, feed storage, meat inspection and animal first aid.
The laboratory includes a fully automated micro-manipulation system with laser and UV on an inverted microscope.
The facility supports intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection, nuclear transfer, fluorescent staining, assisted hatching and stem-cell harvesting.