Students from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies celebrated their graduation at two ceremonies in the University of Edinburgh's McEwan Hall. Undergraduate veterinary students were awarded their Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery (BVM&S) degrees on Saturday 4 July, while postgraduate students graduated on Monday 6 July, receiving qualifications from across the School's portfolio of taught and research degrees. The majority of the School's postgraduate research students will receive their awards at the University's winter graduation ceremonies later this year. Professional declaration As part of the celebrations, BVM&S graduates made their Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) declaration, the professional pledge required of all veterinary surgeons before they can practise in the UK. In the declaration, graduates commit to carrying out their profession with integrity, accepting their responsibilities to the public, their clients, their profession and the RCVS, while safeguarding the health and welfare of the animals entrusted to their care. Principal's Medal Meera Mokashi, a Master of Veterinary Science (MVetSci) in Conservation Medicine graduate, received the Principal’s Medal she was awarded in 2025. The Principal's Medal recognises exceptional academic achievement and contribution to the University community. Ms Mokashi was recognised for her voluntary work as a programme representative, bringing together the online student community through social initiatives. She advocates for student consultation in University policy development and serves on several School and University committees, reflecting her commitment to student welfare and a supportive academic environment. Honorary degree The School also conferred an honorary degree of veterinary medicine and surgery on Dr Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director of the Dogs Trust charity from 2011 to 2025. Dr Boyden was recognised for her outstanding contribution to companion animal welfare and veterinary leadership. During her tenure at Dogs Trust, she championed evidence-based approaches to canine welfare, helped shape national policy on responsible dog ownership and animal welfare, and worked extensively across the veterinary profession, government and the charity sector to improve the lives of dogs throughout the UK. Her honorary degree recognises a career dedicated to advancing animal welfare, supporting the veterinary profession and inspiring future generations of veterinary surgeons. Prizegiving event Ahead of graduation, Professor Lisa Boden, Head of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, welcomed graduating students, their families and supporters to the School's Easter Bush Campus for the annual prizegiving celebration. The event recognised excellence across the undergraduate veterinary programme, with students receiving prizes for academic achievement, clinical excellence, leadership and sporting success before joining friends, family and staff for a reception to mark the occasion. About the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies is a one-of-a-kind centre of excellence in clinical activity, teaching and research. Our purpose-built campus, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Pentland Hills Regional Park, is home to more than 800 staff and almost 1400 students, all of whom contribute to our exceptional community ethos. The School comprises: The Roslin Institute The Roslin Innovation Centre The Hospital for Small Animals Equine Veterinary Services Farm Animal Services Easter Bush Pathology The Animal Welfare Centre We represent the largest concentration of animal science-related expertise in Europe, impacting local, regional, national and international communities in terms of economic growth, the provision of clinical services and the advancement of scientific knowledge. This article was published on Friday 10 July 2026
