A young scientist of KazNU participated in the Virology and Vaccine Technology Workshop held in Indonesia

Sandugash Sandybayeva, a young scientist from the Department of Biotechnology, was awarded the Fellowship of COMSTECH Research Program and participated in the Virology and Vaccine Technology Workshop held in Jakarta and Bandung, Indonesia from July 1 to 29, 2024. The objective of the program was to enhance research and development capabilities in virology and vaccine technology among the Member States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The program aims to strengthen cooperation among OIC countries in vaccine production and promote global health initiatives under SDG 3. Good Health and Well-being.

As the SARS Cov-2 (COVID-19) pandemic unfolds its devastation and catastrophe, the lack of preparedness and resilience is becoming evident around the world. Countries of the South, including many OIC countries, are proving to be particularly vulnerable and completely dependent on individual countries for all their health needs, be it diagnostic equipment, kits, ventilators or personal protective equipment. Good science and sound public policies are needed to meet the challenge of current and future pandemics. Good science requires a systematic and focused programme to build the capacity of young scientists.

COMSTECH, in collaboration with key centres of excellence in OIC countries, has provided fellowships for research and development in virology and vaccine technology. This is a real attempt to prepare the next generation of scientists in the OIC countries to meet the challenges of current and future pandemics/epidemics.

Indonesia has acted as a Centre of Excellence for Vaccines and Biotech Products in this programme, which aims to strengthen research and development of high quality, safe and affordable new vaccines and biotech products, build capacity and enhance cooperation and collaboration among OIC member states.

The first two phases of the same programme were successfully implemented in Indonesia in 2022 and 2023. Since 2022, the programme has supported 24 scientists from 18 OIC countries hosted by Biofarma. This year, 10 new fellows from 9 OIC member countries joined the programme.