With the participation of 27 customers from 12 countries throughout Latin America, this trilingual course featured presentations by prominent industry speakers including: Marcos Macari, former president of UNESP, Valeria Abreu from Embrapa, Mike Czarick and Steve Collett from the University of Georgia, USA, Sarge Bilgili from Auburn University, USA, and many more distinguished experts in the poultry science field.

During the programme, which included theoretical and practical lectures, participants received the latest information in areas related to poultry production.

Ricardo Valle, Technical Services Manager for Aviagen America Latina and one of the organisers of the course, commented: "One of the most important aspects of the course was undoubtedly the cultural diversity of the participants, which sparked great interest among all students to share ideas and experience about the poultry market in their respective countries, and the different forms of management."

The course was attended by Aviagen customers from Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Columbia, Paraguay and Uruguay.

"Certainly, many participants will return to their countries with new ideas to implement and improve their businesses," added Mr Valle.

Ivan Pupo Lauandos, General Manager of Aviagen America Latina, said: "The theme for the school, ‘Chicken Production’, illustrates the keen focus and importance of the poultry industry in Latin America."

Ullrich Koehler, Business Manager of Aviagen America Latina, added: "One of the main objectives of the course was to contribute to the continued development of the poultry industry in Latin America by bringing the latest technical information from some of the best specialists around the world."

The first Aviagen America Latina course continues in the tradition, format and content as the Aviagen Production Management School held annually in Huntsville, Alabama, US.