Jan 2

SEAOHUN 2023 Regional Student Competition Winners Honored with Biosafety & Biosecurity Training

Updated: Jan 4

In a momentous celebration of the victorious team from the SEAOHUN 2023 Regional Student Competition, a four-day SEAOHUN 2023 Student Training on Biosafety and Biosecurity took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from December 5th to December 8th, 2023.

This impactful training was made possible through the generous support of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) and the US Agency for International Development (USAID). It was conducted in collaboration with the Malaysia One Health University Network (MyOHUN). The event garnered participation from the winning countries, namely the Philippines, Cambodia, and Thailand. Additionally, we extended invitations to students from the host countries to enhance networking opportunities among participants. In total, 21 students participated in this training, guided by two team mentors from the Philippines and Thailand.

Facilitated by the trainers from MyOHUN networks, the program offered comprehensive instruction on Biosafety and Biosecurity principles with a strong emphasis on the One Health concept. Key areas covered included Biosafety protocols, Risk assessment, Risk Mitigation, Good Laboratory Work Practices, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and Biological Waste Management.

A highlight of the training was a half-day laboratory visit on the final day at the Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya. This provided participants with a firsthand experience of Biosafety and Biosecurity practices, enriching their learning journey. The positive feedback received from participants underscored the success of the program, and certificates were presented to acknowledge the successful completion of the training.

“I've grasped the principles of waste handling and management, not just in theory but also through hands-on experience. Observing various laboratories has provided me with a broader perspective on their operations. Furthermore, hearing firsthand stories and lessons from laboratory personnel has enriched my understanding”. - Jobelle Lacsina Waje, Alumna of Pampanga State Agricultural University, Philippines

“One activity that helps me understand ONE HEALTH is exchanging knowledge with new friends from overseas. It gives you many different perspectives that can be applied to the faculty lab.” - Yanapat Prommool, Naresuan University, Thailand.

“This training about Biosafety and Biosecurity really helps me a lot to improve my understanding about these topics. It will surely benefit and help me a lot in my future study and work.” - Sonita Mang, Royal University of Agriculture, Cambodia.

“I loved everything about this training. It was great having students from different countries where we could share our experiences and culture together. Overall, we really got connected to each other and will continue this friendship throughout our lives.” - Kharesma Sathanandhan, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.