Harvard University has expressed keen interest in a groundbreaking project developed by students from Makerere University, focusing on the detection of cancer-causing substances in water and the environment. The project, spearheaded by the College of Natural Sciences at Makerere University, has garnered attention from Harvard University’s Innovations Incubator, signaling a significant milestone in the advancement of biosensor technology for cancer detection.
The collaboration between Makerere University and Harvard University aims to transform the innovative project into a global solution for cancer treatment. Harvard’s Incubator selected Makerere’s project as the sole African representative for participation in the Global Nucleate Activation Program, a prestigious four-month online initiative scheduled to commence on May 21, 2024.
Dr. Julius Mulindwa, a Principal Investigator at Makerere’s Department of Biochemistry, emphasized the importance of international recognition and support for student-driven initiatives. He highlighted how exposure gained from competitions and collaborations with institutions like Cambridge and Harvard has catalyzed investment in scientific endeavors, even amid challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mr. Michael Okea, a fourth-year Medicine and Surgery student and the lead of Makerere’s project team, shared insights into the project’s journey. Their participation in the 2023 International Genetically Engineered Machine Competition in Paris earned them a silver medal. The team’s biosensor technology effectively detected 16 cancer-causing substances in water sources within Kampala’s Kawempe Division.
The upcoming incubator program at Harvard in May 2024 aims to further refine the project, validate its effectiveness, and provide guidance on packaging and marketing strategies. This initiative underscores the commitment of both institutions to leverage innovation for the benefit of global health and cancer prevention.
The students involved in the project are being groomed to present their innovative solution to Chief Executive Officers of established biotechnology companies in the United States.
