The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) welcomed a delegation from the University of Tsukuba, Japan, led by its President, Dr. Kyosuke Nagata, to explore research collaborations between the two institutions. The visit provided an opportunity for both parties to exchange knowledge and discuss areas of mutual interest in medical research.
Prof. Dorothy Yeboah-Manu, NMIMR Director, welcomed the delegation and highlighted the institute’s contributions to Ghana’s medical research landscape, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of the visit, a special symposium was held at NMIMR, bringing together leading researchers to share insights and explore potential partnerships.
The Japanese delegation presented research on skin wound healing, infectious diseases, and medical innovations. Dr. Kyosuke Nagata, President, University of Tsukuba gave an overview of his university’s work in virology and molecular biology, emphasizing the importance of international collaborations, including with NMIMR, to drive scientific innovation.
Following his presentation, representatives from the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) shared insights into their ongoing research and contributions to global health. Prof. George Boateng Kyei and Dr. Beverly Egyir highlighted NMIMR’s efforts in addressing major health concerns, ranging from HIV cure research to antimicrobial resistance surveillance.
Prof. Kyei provided an overview of NMIMR’s research on HIV, rotavirus and malaria. He also discussed efforts to establish HIV cure research and training programs at the University of Ghana, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in advancing public health solutions.
Dr. Beverly Egyir, Senior Research Fellow at the Bacteriology Department of NMIMR fo-cused on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance in common bacterial isolates in Ghana. She highlighted the use of whole genomic sequencing to track resistant bacteria and shared key lessons learned in addressing the growing threat of superbugs like MRSA.
Their presentations underscored NMIMR’s vital role in pioneering research that informs policy and strengthens public health interventions in Ghana and beyond.
The special symposium concluded with discussions on joint research projects, academic exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives.
To mark the visit, Prof. Dorothy Yeboah-Manu presented gifts to the delegation, reinforcing the deepening ties between NMIMR and the University of Tsukuba.
This collaboration paves the way for groundbreaking research that will benefit Ghana and the global scientific community.