The Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) and Plateau State University, Bokkos have met to discuss partnership in research and medical laboratory science education.
At the meeting which held at the IHVN Campus in Abuja, PLASU Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Shadrack Best said that the courtesy visit to the Institute is in furtherance of their desire to learn and embrace best practices in virology.
“We run academic programs, we do research, we have laboratories seeking upgrade and transformation in tandem with modern health practices. We are growing and very ambitious as we grow. We are looking for people to hold our hands. Particularly, we have a Faculty of Medical Sciences with degree programs in nursing, medical laboratory science and public health. It is becoming a stepping stone to our medical program because we intend to receive our pioneer medical students in October or November this year.”
Prof. Best requested for support for the university’s medical laboratory program in terms of equipment and internship or mentorship of its students. He thanked the IHVN CEO, Dr. Patrick Dakum for his diligent service in improving the health of Nigerians.
While welcoming the guests, Dr. Dakum said that the Institute is committed to its mission of being a center of excellence in capacity building, research and ensuring equitable access to quality health services through innovative and evidence-based services.
He traced the Institute’s long-standing relationship with Plateau State since inception and the establishment of the Plateau State Human Virology Research Center (PLASVIREC) named after the co-discoverer of the HIV virus and founder of the Institute of Human Virology, Baltimore, Prof. Robert Gallo.
Dr. Dakum stated that IHVN is providing technical support to PLASVIREC.
“PLASVIREC is already doing some research and it will be best fit for the research arm of your medical school.”
He expressed the willingness of the Institute to partner in equipping students with skills in laboratory equipment maintenance, quality assurance and grant applications.
Also present at the meeting was PLASU Head of Internal Administration Vice Chancellor’s Office, Yitkyim Datong, IHVN Director Special Projects, Dr. Aderonke Agbaje, IHVN Technical Advisor, Mr. Abubakar Abdullahi and Coordinator of the International Research Center of Excellence (IRCE), Dr. Evaesi Okpokoro amongst others.
