…As Redeemers University hosts Africa’s first genomics hackathon
From Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure
The Institute of Genomics and Global Health (IGH) has unveiled virtual laboratories to aid scientific research and teaching.
The virtual laboratories were unveiled at Africa’s first genomics hackathon organized by the Institute at the Redeemer’s University, Ede.
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The event marked the culmination of three weeks of intensive innovation as 20 finalists showcased their virtual simulations of complex genomic laboratory procedures.
Speaking, the Director of IGH, Professor Christian Happi said: “the idea was to bring bright minds together and to use this opportunity to create innovation and explore new ideas.”
Also, he admonished them to use their works to drive progress in the society.
He stated that the projects, which ranged from gel electrophoresis, PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to sequencing on the illumina platform would enable the participants to create immersive extended reality (XR) experiences that demystify the steps involved in genomic sequencing.
The IGH’s Chief Information Technology and Innovation Officer, Adedayo Okunfolami, said the hackers would be mentored and given necessary exposure “so that the simulations they developed would not just end as hackathon projects.”
He said “with technologies like XR, students and young scientists can now experience the laboratory without entering the laboratory, handle equipment and execute procedures virtually and help bridge the gap between learning in rich schools and schools with low resources, leading to comparable students understanding.”
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