Scientific equipment management practice in Africa

It is argued that scientific progress in Africa is held back by, among other things, the dilapidated state of scientific equipment in laboratories and other research facilities. When making bids for funds to purchase scientific equipment, government and institutions may consider them as invaluable assets for the success of an institution’s activities bringing about development. However, the acquisition, use and management of these assets is fraught with problems (for example management, maintenance and PM), which compromise the quality and quantity of the desired output.

I think to build strong science and technology capacity in Africa the continent should establish a strong Scientific Equipment Policy (e.g., equipment selection, standardisation, installation, user training, maintenance training, etc). To start with, there should be many advanced national or regional training facility labs that can offer training courses to cover instrument operation, maintenance, calibration, method development, quality systems …..etc). It would be very difficult to hold these courses in UK or USA particularly for those like junior chemists and technicians interested in improving their skills.

Let me know your thoughts on this matter.
Mohammed.