The College of Health Sciences (CHS) at the University of Ghana organized an exhibition showcasing scholarly works from its various schools and departments.
The exhibition, held on June 25, 2024, in the college’s examination hall, featured contributions from the Medical School, Dental School, School of Public Health, and the West African Genetic Medical Centre (WAGMC). The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research also presented on sickle cell prevention among other research areas.
Speaking to Univers News, Chairman of the College of Health Sciences (CHS) Research Board, Prof. Yaw Afrane discussed the event’s background and emphasized its role in fostering collaboration among different departments.
He highlighted how research findings are applied to policy-making, mentioning partnerships with the Ghana Health Service.
“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 ourselves, 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 Noguchi institute sometimes receives funding from partners like the Ghana Health Service, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as an example where Noguchi was empowered by the Ghana Health Service for testing, diagnostics, research, public health support, and training healthcare workers.
Speaking at the event, the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Julius Fobil, underscored 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 or best researcher award, even a small recognition can motivate people and encourage them to improve the quality of their research.”
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Story by: Abdul Wahab | univers.ug.edu.gh
