ISLAMABAD: Scientists from Pakistan and other Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states are taking part in a month-long vaccine development training program in Jakarta, the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) reported on Thursday.

The third phase of the training program has been launched by the Standing Committee for Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH), one of the four OIC standing committees, in collaboration with Indonesia’s health ministry, vaccine developer PT Bio Farma and the Padjadjaran University.

Twelve researchers from Indonesia, Cameroon, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Egypt, Pakistan, Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda have been enrolled in the program for training in virology and vaccine technology.

The third phase of the month-long training program is being held in Jakarta and will also be conducted in Bandung, West Java. The first two phases of the same program were conducted in Indonesia in 2022 and 2023.

“The program offers a comprehensive learning experience, encompassing the workshops, industry visits, and laboratory training,” APP said. 

Trainees will undergo intensive training at PT Bio Farma’s laboratory and central laboratories of UNPAD Bandung and Jatinangor. 

“The program is designed to foster knowledge sharing and equip researchers with the necessary skills and expertise in virology and vaccine technology,” APP said. “Ultimately strengthening vaccine development and manufacturing capabilities within OIC member countries.”

Indonesia’s Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stressed the role of the program in strengthening the capabilities of researchers from OIC countries in vaccine manufacturing.

“He highlighted the importance of expanding vaccine research and development beyond developed nations, aiming for a more equitable global vaccine production capacity,” APP said. 

A vital part of the OIC, COMSTECH aims to strengthen cooperation among member states in science and technology and enhance their capabilities through training in emerging areas.