COVAB Undergraduate Finalists Gain Valuable Insights During Scientific Study Courtesy Tour of Anti-Tick Vaccine Manufacturing Facility
On 13th October 2023, third-year students in the Bachelor of Biomedical Laboratory Technology program at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, had a unique opportunity to visit the Anti-Tick Vaccine Manufacturing facility in Namanve.
The purpose of the tour was to enhance their understanding of practical vaccine Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), Quality Assurance, and Quality Control concepts.
This enlightening experience was coordinated by Dr. David Kalenzi Atuhaire, the Head of Production on the Anti-Tick Vaccine Project, who also serves as a Lecturer in the Department of Biotechnical and Diagnostic Sciences. Recognizing the significance of practical knowledge in the field, Dr. Kalenzi organized this tour to further reinforce the students’ comprehension of vital concepts such as design, equipment, and other GMP components.
Under the guidance of the facility’s Pharmacist, Mr. Ivan Kafeero and Dr. Kalenzi, the students were introduced to various aspects of vaccine production. The tour encompassed an exploration of key areas within the facility, including the warehouse, raw materials section, fermentation unit, purification area, formulation, packaging division, and Quality Control laboratories. The students gained insights into the intricacies of the vaccine production process.
Moreover, the tour offered the students a comprehensive understanding of essential manufacturing utilities such as the Heating Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system (HVAC), water treatment processes, steam generation, gas utilization, and the intricate steps involved in drug manufacturing. This hands-on exposure enabled the students to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications.
The students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness firsthand the operations of a subunit vaccine production facility. They were exposed to a deep understanding of the pharmaceutical industry.
During this study visit, the COVAB undergraduate finalists were fortunate enough to engage in a meaningful conversation with Dr. Margaret Saimo-Kahwa, the Principal Innovator of the Anti-Tick Vaccine. Dr. Kahwa inspired the students by highlighting the potential for African solutions to address Africa’s challenges.
Dr. Kahwa cited the Anti-tick Vaccine as a prime example of this notion. This ground-breaking vaccine was developed using the gut contents of local ticks, resulting in a solution that has the potential to effectively combat ticks and tick-borne diseases not only in Uganda but throughout the entire African continent.
With this example, Dr. Kahwa encouraged the students to recognize the immense possibilities for innovation and problem-solving within their own communities. She emphasized the importance of utilizing local resources and knowledge to develop sustainable solutions that are tailored to the unique needs of Africa.
The students were greatly inspired by Dr. Kahwa’s words and were filled with renewed motivation to contribute to the advancement of their field in ways that directly benefit their communities and continent. They recognized the significance of harnessing local expertise and fostering a sense of ownership over research and development initiatives.
The COVAB undergraduate finalists left the Anti-Tick Vaccine Manufacturing facility with enriched knowledge and a heightened appreciation for the critical role of GMP in ensuring the safety and efficacy of vaccines. This scientific study courtesy tour served as a testament to COVAB’s commitment to providing its students with holistic education and preparing them to become future leaders in the field of biomedical laboratory technology.
Dr. Kalenzi extended his gratitude to Professor Frank N. Mwiine, the Principal of COVAB, for his invaluable support in facilitating the students’ participation in the study trips. He also expressed his appreciation to the Managing Director of Alfasan (U) Ltd, Dr. Stephen Birungi for granting permission to the students to visit and tour the facility
