On February 3,2025, A critical six-day training program on Toxicology Risk Assessment kicked off at the MUST Kihumuro Campus, bringing together scientists, technologists, health workers, academics, researchers, and policymakers. The workshop will focus on the principles of toxicology, hazard identification, dose-response assessment, exposure assessment, risk characterization, biomarkers and their uses, biological sampling methods, and an appreciation of mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicology, and antidotes. The opening ceremony underscored the vital role of toxicology assessment in ensuring the safety of everyday products and building a healthier nation.
The event was graced by Ms. Brenda Nakazibwe, the team leader of the pathogenic economy at the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, the Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs Prof. Nixon Kamukama, a representative of the President of Uganda Pharmacological society, Dr. Samuel Baker Obakiro faculty and staff from MUST, and representatives from other universities.
The event was collaboratively hosted by two institutes: The Africa Centre of Excellence in Public Health and Toxicological Research (ACE-PUTOR), University of Port Harcourt, in collaboration with the Toxicology Unit, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda, and the West African Society of Toxicology (WASOT). The two centres of Excellence deal with Public Health and toxicology (west African) and Pharm-biotechnology and traditional medicine (East Africa) respectively.
“Our role as professionals,” declared Mr. Joseph Oloro, a key speaker at the opening, “is to ensure our country is better in many ways. This training empowers us to make sure the products we use are safe for everyone.” His remarks highlighted the core mission of the training: equipping participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct thorough toxicology assessments. In his remarks, he acknowledged the support from the university administration, the Pharmbiotrac Project at MUST, and the international relations officer, Ms. Shiela Niinye, for always helping our international guests with the paperwork processed at the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
The Vice Chancellor warmly welcomed guests to Uganda and the MUST campus, expressing enthusiasm for the week ahead. “I hope you’re ready for it,” the VC stated, setting a positive tone for the intensive training program. The event drew participants from various institutions, including Busitema University, Makerere University, Kabale University, BSU, KIU, and Gulu University, demonstrating a collaborative approach to tackling the complex challenges of toxicology. The VC also extended special thanks to Peter for recognizing MUST and Port Harcourt as valuable partners in this important endeavor.
Brenda Nakazibwe, representing Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero, delivered a compelling address on behalf of the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Secretariat. As the team lead of the pathogenic economy, Nakazibwe emphasized the crucial work of the STI Secretariat, which comprises ten bureaus. Focusing on the pathogenic bureau, she outlined the STI’s strategic priorities, including the implementation of regulatory sandboxes to foster innovation while maintaining safety standards. Nakazibwe also stressed the importance of investing in capacity building for regulators and creating incentives for both compliance and innovation. These initiatives, she explained, are essential for building a robust and effective regulatory framework. She officially declared the training open.
The Toxicology Risk Assessment Training promises to be a significant step forward in strengthening Uganda’s capacity to manage chemical risks and protect public health. Participants will delve into the intricacies of toxicology assessment, gaining practical skills and knowledge that will enable them to contribute meaningfully to a safer future. The collaborative spirit evident at the opening ceremony suggests a productive week of learning and networking, ultimately benefiting communities across Uganda and beyond.
Q and A session at the event
Meet and greet moment; This session served as a pivotal moment for participants providing a platform for networking, discussion, and collaboration. Attendees left with new connections, fresh ideas, and a renewed sense of community within the field of toxicology. As the event concluded, many expressed enthusiasm for future gatherings and the continued exchange of knowledge and expertise.
This event not only strengthened existing relationships but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations that could lead to significant advancements in toxicological research and practice.
