By Adnan Hameed
TWA
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COMSTECH, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), marked a significant milestone today with the groundbreaking ceremony for the establishment of the Halal Authentication Laboratory at the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU).
The ceremony, held at IUIU, was graced by esteemed dignitaries including Prof. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of COMSTECH, Prof. Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, Rector of IUIU, Dr. Issahaq Umar Iddrisu, IsDB Manager – Regional Hub Kampala, Uganda, Dr. Shk Ramadhan Mubajje, Mufti of Uganda, and Sameh Hussein, Lead Technical Cooperation Specialist (IsDB), among others.
The event served as a platform for discussions on the project’s scope, implementation strategy, and timeline, emphasizing the training of human resources and the formation of the project steering committee. Following the deliberations, the distinguished guests visited the construction site of the laboratory, where Prof. Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary laid the foundation stone, symbolizing the commencement of this vital endeavor.
Under the COMSTECH Africa initiative in science and technology, this project represents a concerted effort to enhance capabilities and infrastructure in the region. Previous initiatives include the launch of a master’s degree program in ICT in The Gambia, establishment of a citrus processing unit in Nigeria, development of a faculty of engineering in Chad, and training of eye surgeons from 10 West African countries.
The construction of the Halal Authentication Laboratory is underway and is scheduled for completion by August 2024. This state-of-the-art facility will not only bolster the halal authentication process but also contribute to the advancement of scientific research and innovation in Uganda and beyond.
