The Medical Research Council (MRC) last Thursday celebrated their laboratory staff’s successful completion of training on biomedical science at a colourful ceremony held at the MRC premises in Fajara.

The 33 graduates of the University of West Minister who obtained certificate and diploma in biomedical sciences by distance learning included staff of the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital, (RVTH), NGOs, Bafrow and Jabot laboratory.

Speaking on the occasion, the scientific officer and head of haematology, Mr Gibril Bah, said the course was conducted to upgrade the education and the academic experience of laboratory technicians, to recognise professional qualifications and to prepare participants for potential further study opportunities.

He further said the certificate course was also undertaken to assist laboratory technicians use their foundation of biological knowledge in the understanding of simple techniques in biomedical research and to prepare them academically for further diploma courses.

The unit director, Professor Tumani Corrah, urged the new graduates to make best use of the knowledge they have gained, noting that the MRC aims to identify and develop a critical mass of Gambians around whom science can be built, as well as to serve as a platform for the development of independent African scientists and researchers from the sub-region and the rest of Africa.

For his part, Mrs Christine Croombes, Head of Staff Development and Training at the MRC, said they aim to increase the numbers of skilled professional staff but most particularly in the sphere of science, revealing that the MRC has established a high successful record of investing in the training of scientific researchers at masters and doctoral levels.

He added that the renowned reputation the Council had would boost the morale of the council’s esteemed scientists and humble assistants and technicians.

Deputising for the Secretary of State for Health, Dr Omar Taal, deputy Permanent Secretary, Department of State for Health, thanked the MRC for investing substantial sums of money in the training of Gambians.

This, he added, would be highly beneficial to the trainees and the Gambia as a nation.