At the end of ISTVS three years, the successful graduate will become a certified animal health technician able to clinically examine livestock and treat diseases affecting trade. S/he knows how to control contagious (spreading) diseases and participates/advises on how to prevent them. The animal health technician is able to gather information and send it to relevant bodies. S/he knows the international animal health codes and local regulations and is able to advise the relevant authorities on health issues of trade animals. The technician can assess compliance with international and local standards of health and quality and prepare documents for certification under the supervision of the veterinary authority. The livestock health technician also plays an important role in advising pastoralist, providing animal health care, training and co-ordinating staff involved in domestic and international trade, reporting data to authorities, and working to protect the veterinary profession and ethics.