The Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor) is hosting 21 scientists from 16 African countries at its Protechnik Laboratories, in Pretoria, Gauteng, from June 8 to 19 for the yearly Analytical Chemistry Course conducted under the auspices of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.

The specialised training programme forms part of ongoing international efforts to strengthen scientific and technical capabilities among African member States in support of the implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).

The programme aims to enhance participants' knowledge and practical competencies in chemical analysis techniques relevant to the CWC.

It will provide a platform for scientific collaboration, skills transfer and knowledge sharing among experts from across the African continent.

"Armscor is honoured to, once again, partner with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in advancing scientific excellence and capacity development across the African continent.

“This programme reflects our commitment to supporting international efforts aimed at promoting the peaceful use of chemistry while strengthening the technical capabilities of African member States,” says Armscor CEO advocate Solomzi Mbada.

Over the two-week programme, participants will receive theoretical and practical training in a range of specialised topics, including sampling and sample preparation procedures for CWC-related chemicals, method validation, gas chromatography, troubleshooting and maintenance, as well as laboratory quality management systems.

The scientists will also gain valuable hands-on experience in gas chromatography techniques using world-class laboratory facilities.

Mbada adds that the training programme demonstrates the important role that science and technology play in fostering international cooperation and security.

"By equipping scientists with advanced analytical skills and practical laboratory experience, we contribute to the effective implementation of the CWC and support the development of a highly skilled scientific community capable of addressing emerging challenges in chemical analysis.

“We are particularly proud that our Protechnik Laboratories continue to serve as the only centre of excellence for training and knowledge exchange in the African continent."

He further highlights the importance of regional collaboration in building sustainable scientific capabilities.

"The participation of scientists from 14 African countries underscores the value of collaboration in advancing scientific knowledge and expertise. Through initiatives such as this, we strengthen networks among African professionals and contribute to the continent's broader science, technology and innovation agenda," Mbada adds.

Armscor says its Protechnik Laboratories has advanced scientific and technical capabilities that support research, development, testing and evaluation activities.

Through partnerships with international organisations and stakeholders, Armscor says it continues to contribute towards capacity building, knowledge sharing and the advancement of science and technology in support of national, regional and global objectives.

Countries represented in this year’s programme are Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Mauritius, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, with Liberia being represented for the first time since the inception of this initiative.