University of Botswana scientists have produced hand sanitizers in an effort to help fight COVID-19. The production of hand sanitizers was initiated by students of School of Pharmacy in the Faculty of Health Science to help alleviate the surging burden of COVID-19 infection in Botswana.
The initiative was borne out of an excursion the students undertook to some medicine manufacturing plants in Zimbabwe this year. The students were also motivated and challenged by their supervising lecturers who accompanied them on the trip.
The advent of COVID-19 then presented an opportunity for the immediate implementation of this initiative. As the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor Student Affairs, Professor Happy Siphambe, wittingly quipped, ‘never waste a crisis, but use it as an opportunity to innovate!’
The initiative was well received and also got support from the Vice Chancellor, Professor David Norris and the entire management team.
Dean of the Faculty of Health Science, Professor Ishmael Kasvosve accompanied by Professor Paul Adiukwu, Head of Pharmacy and Ms MotshegwanaTebogo, a lecturer in School of Pharmacy, led the team that presented the well-packaged Hand Sanitizers to UB management.
Also present at the handover ceremony, was the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs , Professor Oathokwa Nkomazana and Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Administration, Mr Lopang Mosupi.
Giving a word of gratitude, Professor Norris noted the noble venture that sought to address national challenges as the University intensified its efforts to engage with the community and industry.
He implored the School of Pharmacy to intensify production and work around the clock to have the product approved by Botswana Bureau of Standards to speed up supply to Botswana market and beyond.