Institute of Genomics and Global Health (IGH) has unveiled virtual labs designed to provide a hands-on learning experience without the need for physical laboratory space or expensive equipment.

The virtual labs were unveiled at Africa’s first genomics hackathon, organised by the institute over the weekend at Redeemer’s University, Ede.

According to the Director of IGH, Prof. Christian Happi, in a statement made available to newsmen in Akure, Ondo State capital, the event showcased the final projects of 20 elite finalists who had spent three weeks in an intensive innovation sprint.

Happi disclosed that their task was to create detailed and accurate virtual simulations of complex genomic laboratory procedures, pushing the boundaries of digital science education.

With the director emphasising that the projects, which ranged from gel electrophoresis and polymerase chain reaction to sequencing on the Illumina platform, he stressed that it enabled the participants to create immersive extended reality (XR) experiences that demystify the steps involved in genomic sequencing.

Happi, who admonished the participants to allow their work to drive progress in society, said: “The idea was to bring bright minds together and to use this opportunity to create innovation and explore new ideas. I am very proud of the work you have done over the past few weeks.”

On his part, IGH’s Chief Information Technology and Innovation Officer, Adedayo Okunfolami, stated that the participants would be mentored and given necessary exposure “so that the simulations they developed would not just end as hackathon projects.”