Embark on an impactful journey with the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) as it introduces the WACCBIP Biotech Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme. This initiative is meticulously crafted to ignite the rise of innovative biotech start-ups in Ghana and across the African continent.
In response to the World Bank’s call for proposals for African Centres of Excellence, the University of Ghana, led by faculty from the Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology (BCMB), and the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), with support from the University of Ghana Computing Systems (UGCS), proposed the establishment of the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) at Legon.
Following two rounds of evaluation, which included reviewing the written proposal and conducting a site visit to assess existing infrastructure and interview the project leader, the World Bank accepted the proposal for WACCBIP’s establishment in November 2013. A financing agreement between the World Bank and the Government of Ghana committed $8 million to support WACCBIP.
Since its inception in 2013, WACCBIP has evolved into a leading center of excellence, forging global partnerships with renowned research institutions and funding organizations. Diversifying its funding sources beyond the World Bank ACE project, WACCBIP has secured additional support from the Wellcome Trust DELTAS grant and other grants mobilized by its faculty and collaborators, ensuring the prolonged sustainability of its programs.
WACCBIP has made substantial investments in recruiting top-tier scientific talent and creating a conducive environment for cutting-edge research. Prioritizing world-class training, the center has established short-term, medium-term, and long-term training programs, consistently producing cohorts of exceptional scientists at both master’s and doctoral levels.
The University of Ghana, situated in Legon, is a prominent and prestigious institution of higher learning that has played a vital role in the academic landscape of West Africa. Established in 1948, the university has evolved into a leading center of excellence, fostering academic, cultural, and intellectual growth. Known for its commitment to providing quality education, the University of Ghana serves as a beacon for scholars, researchers, and students across the region and beyond.
The university’s academic structure encompasses a diverse range of faculties and schools, including but not limited to the Faculty of Social Sciences, the College of Health Sciences, the School of Law, and the Business School. These academic units offer a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, catering to a broad spectrum of disciplines.
One of the notable achievements of the University of Ghana is its response to the World Bank’s call for proposals for African Centres of Excellence, resulting in the establishment of the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) at Legon. This initiative, led by the university’s faculty, showcases its commitment to cutting-edge research and global partnerships.
Beyond academic pursuits, the University of Ghana boasts a vibrant campus life. The institution provides a conducive environment for extracurricular activities, fostering the holistic development of students. Cultural events, sports activities, and various student organizations contribute to the rich tapestry of campus life, creating a dynamic and engaging community.
In its long history, the University of Ghana has consistently produced graduates who have gone on to make significant contributions to various fields, both nationally and internationally. As a center for knowledge creation and dissemination, the university continues to uphold its mission of promoting academic excellence, research, and community development, making it a cornerstone of higher education in the West African region.
Program Components:
- Entrepreneurship Training Course: Equip yourself with the essential tools to translate your biotech ideas into market-ready start-ups. Delivered in collaboration with the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS) Innovation and Incubation Hub, the Office of Research, Innovation and Development (ORID), and the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST).
- Incubation Programme: Nurture your fledgling business with dedicated support and resources, fostering growth and sustainability.
- Funding Scheme: Unlock the potential of your research projects with a funding scheme tailored for exceptional ventures.
Benefits
- Up to $5,000.00 seed funding for at least 3 incubator start-ups
- Exploration of collaborative funding with partners like the Resolution Project
- Upon completion of the five day bootcamp, participants will be awarded prestigious Certificate in the Essentials of Biotech Entrepreneurship jointly awarded by WACCBIP, UGBS Innovation Hub, and IAST.
Requirements For The WACCBIP Biotech Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program.
- WACCBIP fellow, interns, students and alumni
- Young biological scientists and trainees
- Biomedical scientists and individuals passionate about developing biotech start-ups.
Selection Process
Duration: Five (5) days intensive bootcamp, and a two (2) month incubation and mentorship programme at the University of Ghana.
- Biotech Entrepreneurship Training Course (5 Days)
- Biotech Start-up incubation Programmes (2 Months)
Assessment:
- Pitch competition to determine incubation programme participants.
- Evaluation of applied knowledge and skills in developing ideas
Method of Application
Application Deadline: January 21, 2024.
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