The German Development Cooperation (GIZ) has commissioned a refurbished bio-instrumentation laboratory at the University of Ghana to enhance practical training for Biomedical Engineering students and strengthen technical capacity in Ghana’s healthcare sector.

The laboratory was officially launched at the ISSER Conference Hall of the University of Ghana on Thursday, 26 February 2026, bringing together government officials, university authorities, development partners, and students.

The state-of-the-art facility is equipped with modern biomedical instruments designed to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and hands-on practice, aligning student training with industry standards.

The launch comes as a major relief for students who previously faced challenges gaining practical experience due to outdated equipment and limited laboratory infrastructure. Many students relied heavily on theory, making it difficult to apply classroom knowledge in real-world situations.

Students, including Daniel Tindan Yinpang and Tricia Andoh-Yamoah, described the new laboratory as a significant improvement that will enhance experimentation, innovation, and professional preparedness.

Speaking at the launch, Professor Elsie Effah Kaufmann, Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana, reflected on the long and challenging journey of establishing biomedical engineering education in Ghana.

“We had issues with capacity, facilities, and especially the practical aspects of the programme,” she said, noting that early years were marked by inadequate teaching staff, limited infrastructure, and insufficient facilities for practical training. Lecturers often handled multiple courses while students struggled to gain hands-on experience.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Health, Dr Ignatius Awinibuno, Director of Allied Health at the Ministry of Health, emphasised that Ghana’s quest for universal health coverage could be undermined without strong biomedical technology systems and skilled professionals to maintain medical equipment.

The Lead Consultant for the Upskilling Biomedical Engineers for Ghana initiative, Professor Thorsten Wagner, also highlighted the importance of strengthening practical biomedical engineering education to ensure sustainability in healthcare technology management.

The facility is expected to benefit both current and future cohorts of Biomedical Engineering students, marking a significant milestone in advancing skills-based engineering education at the University of Ghana.