By Patrick Opio
Senior Communications Officer
Lira University has received used medical equipment from Seeding labs, Boston, USA, worth 150,000 USD (about Ushs 600 Million) for use at the faculty of medicine and the Teaching Hospital.
The Acting Dean Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Olwa Francis, who received the equipment on 19th August 2025 said that the used medical equipment will support teaching and learning process.
In 2023, Dr. Nakaziba Rebecca of the Pharmacology department, Lira University, applied for and won the laboratory equipment grant by Seeding labs, an organization based in the USA.
(Left) Dr. Olwa and Dr. Nakaziba and a staff member pose for a photo with one of the equipment
Dr Nakaziba noted that the consignment containing high tech equipment like Pharmaceutical high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), perinatal clinical research canter (PRCR), safety hoods and several others were shipped and reached Mombasa on May 11, 2025 before finally transported to Lira University.
Dr. Nakaziba revealed that the equipment is intended to support teaching and research in low resource institutions like Lira University.
On the benefit, Dr Nakaziba says, “The equipment is expected to boost the research capacity of both staff and students within and without Lira university.”
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng lauded Seeding Labs for always donating medical equipment to institutions in developing countries, significantly benefiting them through improved healthcare delivery, scientific research, and workforce development.
Prof. Ogwal Okeng further observed that the donations will enable university scientists to conduct research, innovate, and train health-care students.
He further noted that by providing essential medical equipment, Seeding Labs helps strengthen health training systems and improve the quality of care in the University Teaching hospital.
Medical professionals, Prof. Ogwal Okeng said, benefit from having access to modern equipment, enabling them to apply their skills more effectively and deliver higher-quality care.
“The donated equipment will definitely facilitate lecturers and students to conduct research in various fields, helping to address local challenges,” he adds.
Prof. Ogwal Okeng noted that access to modern equipment allows scientists to explore new research areas, develop innovative solutions, and publish their findings, contributing to scientific advancements, a practice cherished by Lira University.
About Hands-on Training, Prof. Ogwal Okeng revealed that the donated equipment will provide opportunities for students and researchers to gain practical experience and develop essential skills, empowering them to pursue their work effectively and contribute to their communities.
