Research has shown that many university students in the science field across Africa lack practical experience using basic molecular biology techniques. This deficiency has limited their knowledge and challenges their future careers as scientists.
The IITA–CGIAR Bioscience Center has constituted an annual workshop for hands-on training on basic molecular biology techniques to prepare students for a better science career. The week-long training, usually held at the IITA Ibadan campus, assembles Masters and PhD students from various African universities. The training is also open to organizations interested in training their staff in this area.
This year’s workshop accommodated 16 students, trained by nine IITA Bioscience staff, including Michael Abberton, Director of IITA West Africa Hub and Head of Bioscience Center, and Yemi Fajire, Bioscience Laboratory Manager.
In an interview with some students, they highlighted specific techniques they have learned, such as using the PCR machine, Sequencer, Ploidy Analyzer, and Lyophilizer. After the workshop, most students confirmed they can now perform DNA extraction, DNA sequencing, and many other things they could not do before.
To ascertain the effectiveness of the training, the organizers assessed the students before and after the training. The post-training scores underlined a marked improvement in students’ comprehension of the practical concepts. At the end of the workshop, all participants were awarded certificates.
Ouattara Fatoumata, a PhD student from Côte d’Ivoire, stated that the new knowledge she has gained would help her research and career as a researcher. Muhammed Jimoh, a Masters’ student from the University of Ibadan in Nigeria, said he joined the training to learn how to analyze data and gained experience beyond his expectation. “The knowledge gained will help in my research, while the certificate can serve as leverage for scholarships and job opportunities,” he said.
Contributed by Favour Eleta
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