Medical students, lecturers, and researchers at the University of Rwanda (UR) gathered at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) Remera Campus for a hybrid public lecture on "Vaccine Development and Medicine Financing" held on Thursday, October 5.

The lecture, a collaborative effort between the University of Rwanda and the International Vaccine Institute (IVI), aimed to provide valuable insights into the world of vaccine development and the financing of medicine.

ALSO READ: Five things to know as Kigali welcomes first modular vaccine factory

ALSO READ: University of Rwanda starts Masters, PhD programmes in biotech

Experts from the International Vaccine Institute delivered the lecture, sharing their wealth of knowledge and experience in various aspects of medical science. Professor Jerome Kim delved into the intricacies of vaccine development, shedding light on the complexities of this field.

Professor Anh Wartel provided an overview of clinical trials, emphasising their significance in the licensure of vaccines. Meanwhile, Professor George Bickerstaff explored the critical topic of financing the future of medicine.

According to UR, this collaborative initiative is a step forward in advancing medical knowledge and capabilities within the region.

In February 2023, the University of Rwanda, through its EAC Regional Centre of Excellence for Vaccines, Immunisation, and Health Supply Chain Management (EAC RCE-VIHSCM), formalised a cooperation agreement aimed at enhancing expertise in the critical area of vaccines.

ALSO READ: Hope for &039;malaria-free world' as WHO approves new vaccine

Dr Yvan Butera, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, highlighted the importance of the lecture, particularly for students. He stressed that understanding vaccine development, testing, licensing, and the essential role of investment in the African vaccine sector is crucial.

"It is imperative for our students, lecturers, and researchers to recognise that the journey towards vaccine manufacturing in Rwanda has already commenced. They must understand the requisites and how to qualify for positions within the vaccine plant.

"As we approach the end of 2023, Rwanda will embark on the production of vaccines, with all the necessary preparations in place. Therefore, it is crucial for students, researchers, and various stakeholders to prepare themselves to contribute to this endeavour,” he said.

"The message for all our students and stakeholders is that this journey to produce vaccines and medicines demands their active participation. It stands as one of our nation's top priorities, encompassing both healthcare and economic aspects. We wholeheartedly encourage them to embark on this journey, engage in research, and aspire to become future vaccine developers, thereby aiding our country's development," Butera said.

ALSO READ: BioNTech vaccine factory in Rwanda is good news for Africa

Ghislain Ishime Mugabe, a final-year student in the Department of Pharmacy, shared his enthusiasm for the lecture, "I gained valuable insights today as the experts explained the intricate process of vaccine development, from preparation to its journey to market availability and usage. It&039;s essential for the broader public to have a clear understanding of this."

Dr Didas Muganga Kayihura, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Rwanda, expressed the institution's readiness to contribute to the workforce required for the vaccine and medicine factory.

"For operations to commence, a skilled workforce is imperative. We have a diverse pool of students, including medical, technology, and law students, all of whom will play a crucial role in this journey. As a university, we recognise the significant responsibility ahead of us to train these individuals."

"We are fully committed to providing unwavering support to the government once vaccine production commences. Our collaboration with experts from organisations like IVI will continue, ensuring the development of a highly skilled workforce," he said.

ALSO READ: The Biotech Revolution has begun in Rwanda

In March 2023, BioNTech, a German biotechnology company known for its partnership with Pfizer in developing one of the earliest Covid-19 vaccines, established a modular vaccine plant in Rwanda. This plant, located in the Kigali Special Economic Zone, was constructed in collaboration with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and will manufacture vaccines for diseases like tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria.

IVI officials revealed ongoing discussions about establishing a course at the EAC Regional Centre of Excellence for Vaccines, Immunisation, and Health Supply Chain Management at the University of Rwanda. This course would provide medical students with the unique opportunity to learn from experts in the field and gain hands-on experience in vaccine-related studies.