CARRYING OUT RESEARCH IN AFRICA
Challenges and Opportunities
In our journey as the Makerere-Uganda iGEM Team 2023, we have not only been dedicated to pioneering solutions in synthetic biology but also to sharing our unique experiences as young, aspiring undergraduate scientists in Africa.
Our contribution, CARRYING OUT RESEARCH IN AFRICA: Challenges and Opportunities, sheds light on the trials and triumphs we have encountered on this remarkable path. It's a testament to our commitment to not only making scientific advancements but also inspiring the next generation of scientists right here in Africa.
Challenges African Researchers face.
- Resource Constraints: The very first and most hitting dilemma African researchers face is the lack of funds.Amidst our iGEM journey, we faced a financial obstacle that threatened our participation in the Jamboree. However, a ray of hope emerged when Lanza Tech, a company that has been supporting SynBio Africa, our nurturing organization in a number of initiatives, generously stepped in to sponsor our entire registration fees. This unexpected support not only relieved our financial burden but also reignited our team's spirit and belief in our project's potential. Lanza Tech's sponsorship highlighted the power of collaboration and belief in young scientists. It allowed us to proceed our iGEM journey with renewed purpose and gratitude, reinforcing that with support from individuals and organizations, remarkable achievements are possible. We express our deep appreciation to Lanza Tech for their unwavering support in making our Jamboree participation a reality.
- Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate laboratory infrastructure and limited access to cutting-edge technology can significantly impede research progress. Throughout our journey, we recognized the critical importance of collaborations and external support. Individuals such as Prince Samoh from the Open Bioeconomy lab and Ms Tyra from IDT have educated us on a number of tools that have been instrumental in propelling our research forward. These partnerships become a lifeline, emphasizing the pressing need for improved research infrastructure in Africa.
- Awareness Gap: Across many African nations, there exists a dearth of awareness regarding the significance of scientific research. Our efforts to raise awareness about synthetic biology and its potential impact on society underscore the urgent need for enhanced science education and public engagement. In addition, Yan Kay from the Reclone community provided valuable advice on documenting the experience of conducting research in Africa. By effectively documenting our research journey in Africa, we hope to bridge the gap in awareness about the unique challenges and opportunities associated with scientific endeavours in Africa.
Opportunities for Researchers in Africa
- Collaborative Spirit: African researchers frequently exhibit a robust spirit of collaboration. Our collaboration with iGEM Stockholm and Tsinghua-TFL iGEM as well as our nurturing organization SynBio Africa and individuals like Mr. Otim Geoffrey are a testament to the strength of these collaborations. These alliances amplify research efforts, foster a sense of community, and exemplify the power of working together towards common goals
- Innovation in Resourcefulness: One remarkable aspect of African research is the ability to overcome resource constraints through innovative and resourceful methods. Our successful GoFundMe campaigns managed by Stephen Mukuze serve as an exemplar of this innovation, showcasing how creative fundraising can bridge funding gaps and enable groundbreaking work in resource-constrained environments.
- Global Connectivity: Engaging with internationally renowned figures such as Michael Kopke, Marilene from Lanza Tech, Christopher Voigt , and John Cumbers as well as organizations like iGEM demonstrates the global interconnectedness of the scientific community. Their support emphasizes the potential for African research to gain recognition on a global stage. These interactions have served as sources of inspiration and guidance, propelling our project forward
- Mentorship and Guidance: Mentorship plays a pivotal role in nurturing young talent and providing valuable insights into research and project development. Our interactions with mentors like Professor. Gerald Kayingo from Universty of Maryland, Mr. Emmanuel Kato and Erikan Baluku have been instrumental in our growth as scientists. Their guidance has expanded our horizons, helping us navigate the complexities of research
Conclusion
While resource constraints and awareness gaps persist, our resilience, collaborative spirit, and innovative approaches underscore the potential for ground-breaking research to emerge from the continent. The unwavering support and mentorship from individuals like Christopher Voigt, John Cumbers, Otim Geoffrey, Prof. Gerald Kayingo, and Ms. Tyra Heather and so many other individuals are testimonies to the power of a global scientific community that transcends geographical boundaries.
As Africa continues to embrace the world of research and innovation, these challenges and opportunities serve as guiding beacons for the next generation of scientists and innovators. Our journey reflects not just the challenges of doing research in Africa but also the immense potential for positive change. By raising awareness and working collectively, we hope to inspire future generations to embark on their scientific journeys with enthusiasm and determination. The challenges may be significant, but the opportunities are boundless, and the future of African research shines brightly on the horizon.
CHAPTER IN THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS HANDBOOK
We hope that this chapter shall inspire future iGEM to align their projects and all steps involved with the SDGs. We believe that this approach will accelerate the achievement of the SDGs
