FULafia MBTCE, DRCT train scientists on modern molecular biology techniques

The Muhammadu Buhari TETFund Centre of Excellence (MBTCE) and Directorate of Research and Creative Thoughts (DRCT), Federal University of Lafia (FULafia), organised a four-day workshop on basic molecular biology techniques with the theme: “Basic Molecular Biology Techniques.”

The workshop was organised to train scientists on DNA and RNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), primer design, sequencing and basic bioinformatics.

The training was held at the Life Science Laboratory of the MBTCE, Permanent Site Campus, FULafia.

Speaking during the opening session, the Director of MBTCE, Prof. Usman Abdullahi, said that the training was part of the University’s efforts to strengthen laboratory-based research and promote innovation among scholars. 

He expressed his hope that the workshop would help bridge the gap between theoretical studies and practical research experience in biomedical and life sciences.

The lead facilitator, Prof. Mustapha Imam, who is the Head of the Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine, FULafia, said that the workshop provided participants with practical exposure to essential molecular techniques that support research in genetics, medicine and biotechnology. He said that the goal was to empower young scientists with the skills needed to contribute to national research development.

Prof. Ibrahim Khalil Adam, the Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, said that understanding molecular biology methods was key to advancing discoveries in medicine, agriculture and environmental science. He commended the University for investing in research-driven training that promotes self-reliance and scientific growth.

Participants were drawn from institutions across the country, including the Federal University Teaching Hospital (FUTH), Lafia, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Benue State University, Makurdi, University of Abuja, Margaret Lawrence University, Abuja, Isa Mustapha Agwai Polytechnic, Lafia, Karl Kumm University, Vom, and Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Kuru, Jos.

Others included staff from the colleges of medicine and health sciences, departments of chemistry, biochemistry and microbiology and Faculty of Agriculture, FULafia. 

Some MBTCE staff, students of the Department of Anatomy and NYSC members also attended the event.

The workshop ended with the presentation of certificates to participants, facilitators and organisers.