The Institute has participated in an exhibition organized by the College of Health Sciences (CHS) of the University of Ghana to showcase scholarly works from various Schools, Institutes and Departments within the College. This is part of the activities earmarking this year’s Day of Scientific Renaissance for Africa.
The event, which took place in the College’s Examination Hall on June 25, 2024, featured contributions from the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), Medical School, Dental School, School of Public Health, and the West African Genetic Medical Centre (WAGMC).
The exhibition sought to foster collaborations, sharing cutting-edge research ideas and ignite discussions on the latest advancements in the field of Health sciences.
The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research presented on sickle cell prevention among other research areas at the exhibition.
The exhibition also served as a platform to engage in fruitful discussions with peers and experts, and foster collaborations that can drive innovation and progress in various fields of study.
Speaking at the opening of the exhibition, the Chairman of the College of Health Sciences (CHS) Research Board, Prof. Yaw Afrane highlighted on the event’s background and emphasized its role in fostering collaboration among different departments.
He highlighted how research findings are applied to policymaking, mentioning partnerships with the Ghana Health Service.
He stated that “the background of this event is that the University of Ghana is celebrating the Day of Scientific Renaissance for Africa, so each college is trying to exhibit what they have been up to in terms of research. Today, the College of Health Sciences decided long ago to hold our event on this date. That is why the schools and departments within the College of Health Sciences have come together today to showcase their scholarly work over the years, to the public and to us, to foster collaborations.”
“Their findings are reported directly to the Ghana Health Service for policy action. These results are shared with the Ghana Health Service.”
Prof. Afrane further elaborated on the funding received for these scholarly projects.
“The individual researchers seek funding from various sources. The Wellcome Trust, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) of the US, and other funders have been supporting all this work.”
He also mentioned that the Institute sometimes receives funding from partners like the Ghana Health Service, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as an example where Noguchi Memorial Institute was empowered by the Ghana Health Service for testing, diagnostics, research, public health support, and training healthcare workers.
At the event, Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Julius Fobil, emphasized the importance of an award scheme to motivate and encourage researchers to produce more impactful and vigorous work.
“We need to institute awards. These awards will serve to motivate faculty and students. If people come here and win prizes, such as the best student poster award for best researcher award, even a small recognition can motivate people and encourage them to improve the quality of their research.”