Redeemer’s University: A Key Player in International Collaboration on SDG Data Gathering and Measurement

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Redeemer’s University: A Key Player in International Collaboration on SDG Data Gathering and Measurement

Redeemer’s University, through the African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), plays a vital role in international collaboration for gathering and measuring data relevant to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). One of the most notable contributions of ACEGID was the swift and groundbreaking response during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa. Demonstrating its commitment to health and research excellence, ACEGID performed Africa’s first full genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 within just hours of receiving the sample from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).



A Story of Impactful Collaboration and Rapid Response

On February 27, 2020, Nigeria confirmed its first COVID-19 case at the Infectious Disease Hospital in Yaba, Lagos. Following the confirmation, a sputum specimen from the patient was sent to ACEGID at Redeemer’s University on March 1, 2020. Utilizing advanced tools, including the QiAmp viral RNA mini kit and Illumina MiSeq sequencing platforms, ACEGID completed the extraction, sequencing, and genome assembly within an unprecedented three days. The resulting full genome sequence of 29,759 base pairs was released, representing the first of its kind on the continent and a major milestone for genomic science in Africa.

This accomplishment was made possible through collaboration between ACEGID, the NCDC, the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), and other reputable Nigerian institutions. The ability to perform real-time sequencing and data analysis in record time underscored Redeemer’s University’s capacity for high-stakes international cooperation. The sequence was shared globally via platforms like GISAID, contributing to the worldwide understanding of SARS-CoV-2 and enabling comparative phylogenetic analysis.



Sustained Contributions from 2020 to 2023

Between 2020 and 2023, ACEGID further solidified its role as a leader in public health genomics and SDG data contribution. During this period, the center:

  1. Generated over 5,000 SARS-CoV-2 sequences, guiding public health strategies and responses across 10 African nations.
  2. Partnered with the Africa CDC and Nigeria CDC, collaborating on crucial pandemic response efforts, showcasing how international and national partnerships can align to support global health initiatives.
  3. Trained over 120 scientists from more than 40 African countries in Next Generation Sequencing techniques, significantly enhancing the capacity for real-time pathogen surveillance and facilitating data collection aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).


Building a Foundation for the Future

The university’s commitment extends beyond immediate pandemic response. The collaborative training programs not only built a network of skilled scientists across the continent but also laid the groundwork for long-term health security and sustainable development in Africa. By enhancing genomic capabilities, ACEGID and Redeemer’s University have helped establish a robust framework for future disease outbreak responses and real-time data gathering that feeds into SDG monitoring and progress assessment.

The legacy of this pioneering work is a testament to how universities can contribute to SDG data gathering through research, training, and international partnerships. The proactive approach of Redeemer’s University continues to support the development of shared scientific knowledge and evidence-based policies that can mitigate public health crises and contribute to a safer, healthier world.



Conclusion

Redeemer’s University exemplifies the potential of academic institutions to foster global cooperation and make significant contributions to the SDGs through research excellence and collaboration. By taking a leadership role in the genomic response to COVID-19 and ongoing data collection efforts, the university not only advances its mission of academic and scientific excellence but also reinforces its commitment to global health and sustainable development.

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