On Thursday, October 10, 2024, the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) hosted Upper Sixth Form Biology students from Ghana International School (GIS) for an immersive study trip centred around molecular biology.
This visit aimed to bridge classroom theory with practical applications, providing students with a unique opportunity to engage in advanced laboratory techniques, such as DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), gel electrophoresis, and microbiology.
The day began with an introduction to DNA extraction, where students worked with malaria-infected blood samples to learn the essential techniques of isolating genetic material for further analysis. They then proceeded to perform PCR, amplifying the extracted DNA to detect Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for malaria. Through conventional PCR, students witnessed firsthand how DNA amplification is used to identify infections at the molecular level.
Next, students observed 2% agarose gel electrophoresis, visualizing DNA fragments as they separated by size. This critical step demonstrated how gel electrophoresis is employed in diagnostics and research, providing an indispensable tool for DNA analysis in both clinical and scientific settings.
The study trip continued in WACCBIP's sequencing facility, where they were introduced to state-of-the-art sequencing technologies, including nanopore and Illumina platforms. They discovered these platforms' crucial role in genomic research and pathogen detection.
A bioinformatics session concluded the experience, where students explored transforming raw DNA sequencing data into actionable insights. They learned data interpretation techniques used to identify pathogens, track genetic mutations, and support global research on infectious diseases. By the end of the day, the students had not only gained a robust understanding of molecular biology but also observed how these techniques are applied in disease diagnostics and scientific discovery.
Dr. Andoh Wilson, a biology teacher at GIS, expressed his enthusiasm: “After all the difficulties I had trying to pique the interest of my sixth-form students in genetic technology, it was a delight and a huge relief to see the students enthusiastically go through the protocol and extract DNA, then go on to amplify DNA and run gel electrophoresis, all by themselves. Thanks, WACCBIP.’’
Student reflections highlighted the impact of the visit. Sedem Hiadzi remarked, “My experience at WACCBIP, University of Ghana, Legon was nothing short of practical. We learn these things in class, but sometimes it can be challenging to see their practical application or to understand what people do with them. But these are the kinds of experiences that can shape our future. You hear from people who work in these fields, and they tell you about their passions, dreams, and why they are there, which can inspire and motivate you, even if you feel like you’re losing. So, I’m nothing short of grateful for this opportunity. Thank you to everyone at WACCBIP.”
Similarly, Hoggar Aquirinah was fascinated by the meticulous nature of the work done at the Centre, noting the difference between textbook learning and real-life application. “The event was very interesting, and I got to learn a lot. I learned the extent that people go to just to test for malaria and to research about finding vaccines for cures and everything. And I think that it’s a fun experience. From reading the textbook and looking at pictures in the textbook, I think everything that’s done here is very professional, very world-class, and up to standard because it’s exactly how they taught us, and the procedures that they went through were very professional and very precise.”
