By Sophan Niwamanya
In an effort to enhance research capacity, Kabale University has introduced High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to boost the scientific development of the communities.
The HPLC machine was handed over to Kabale University on January 26, 2023, after being installed by Palin Corporation, made in the Netherlands. The Palin Corporation, before handing over, first carried out a series of trainings for the Kabale University staff to equip them with knowledge and skills while embarking on a journey of fruitful results at the institution.
Vivian Zawedde, the technical sales specialist at Palin Corporation, highlighted the importance of an HPLC machine, which is a powerful analytical technique used to separate, identify, and quantify components in a mixture.
She added that HPLC enables researchers to analyze complex mixtures and identify individual components with high precision and sensitivity. Its installation at Kabale University would provide researchers with a valuable tool to advance their investigations in various fields such as chemistry, biology, pharmaceutical sciences, environmental studies, and more.
She further revealed that HPLC can be incorporated into the curriculum to teach students about separation science, analytical techniques, and data analysis. Students can gain hands-on experience operating the instrument, preparing samples, and interpreting chromatograms. This practical exposure enhances their analytical skills and prepares them for future careers in scientific research, quality control, or pharmaceutical industries.
Zawedde noted that students shall be able to carry out their research projects, lecturers research, and PHD students’ research for publications; more so, the installation of HPLC can foster cross-disciplinary research and encourage knowledge-sharing among faculty and students.
She said that the installation of HPLC at Kabale University can attract researchers and students interested in analytical chemistry and related fields. Additionally, it can establish Kabale University as a center of excellence for analytical sciences, attracting collaborations, grants, and partnerships from national and international institutions.
Natukunda Peter, project manager on behalf of Kabale University, who doubles as the Assistant Administration Officer in the Directorate of Research and Grants, expressed gratitude for the newly procured machine, saying that it’s a relief for Kabale University and the community.
He said that researchers and staff at Kabale University have been having challenges analyzing liquid samples in scientific research, but with the newly procured HPLC machine, the challenge has been addressed.
Natukunda clarified that the HPLC machine series will not be limited to only Kabale University staff and the community, but rather other external researchers and research institutions will also be able to benefit from the HPLC services at Kabale University at a cost that will be determined by the university.
The HPLC machine cost a tune of Ugx 341 million.
