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IGH Hosts 20 Finalists of Africa’s First XR & AI Genomics Hackathon
By Twenty young scientists from across Nigeria converged at the Institute of Genomics and Global Health (IGH) today, marking the beginning of the on-site phase of Africa’s first-ever XR & AI Genomics Hackathon. The event, which aims to revolutionize the way genomics is taught and experienced, brings together a unique blend of technical skills and scientific expertise to simulate laboratory processes.
For the past two weeks, over 150 international participants worked remotely in teams, developing operational flows for various genomic sequencing steps using Extended Reality (XR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). These virtual simulations are designed to allow young scientists to learn about complex, hands-on lab procedures within an immersive digital environment.
The hackathon symbolises IGH’s effort at institutionalizing an innovative approach to science education on the continent. By moving beyond traditional textbooks and lectures, IGH is pioneering a new frontier in genomics. The operational flows created by the participants will serve as practical educational tools, making difficult laboratory work accessible and understandable for scientists and visitors, including children.
“We are happy to bring these young minds together. This hackathon is a major step in shaping the future of genomics education in Africa,” said Professor Christian Happi, the Director at IGH. “By integrating technologies like XR and AI, we are creating new ways for young scientists to experience and learn about complex genetic data, making high-level, complex lab procedures accessible through a virtual space.”
The on-site phase will conclude with a public Demo Day on Friday, August 22, 2025, where the finalists will showcase their final projects: simulations of genomics laboratory processes. The event is open to the public, offering a rare glimpse into the future of scientific education and the potential of African innovation.
Why Genomics Matters for Global Health
Genomics is the study of an organism’s entire set of DNA, known as its genome. Through genomics, public health workers can understand how all genes work together and with the environment. This holistic approach helps with understanding the genetic basis of diseases. Hence, scientists can develop more targeted and effective interventions, ultimately improving public health outcomes on a global scale. Genomics applications range from the development of personalized cancer treatments to predicting and preventing diseases like sickle cell anemia, a condition with high prevalence in parts of Africa.
The Complexity of Genomics Research
While powerful, genomics research is incredibly complex. The human genome alone contains approximately 3 billion DNA base pairs, and understanding how these elements function and interact is a daunting task. The sheer volume of data generated from genomic sequencing requires powerful computational tools and a high level of expertise in bioinformatics to analyze.
This complexity is further compounded by the fact that current knowledge of the human genome is largely based on studies from populations of European ancestry, highlighting a critical need for more diverse genetic data from African populations to ensure that advances in genomic medicine are equitable and relevant for all.
How XR Can Facilitate Genomics Education in Africa
This is where technologies like Extended Reality (XR)—which includes virtual and augmented reality come in. One of the biggest challenges in genomics education, particularly in Africa, is the lack of access to well-equipped laboratories. Traditional lab training is often expensive, resource-intensive, and limited in its scope. XR can help to bridge the access gap by creating immersive virtual lab environments where scientists and students can perform complex procedures without the need for physical equipment or chemicals.
This will make genomics training more accessible and also create a safe space to practice and repeat procedures, building the skills and confidence necessary to address Africa’s unique health challenges.
While IGH is one of the best-equipped genomics facilities in Africa, the institute is making access to genomics knowledge and training available to all using extended reality and artificial intelligence.
About IGH
Located at Redeemer’s University in Ede, the Institute of Genomics and Global Health is one of Africa’s leading genomics research and innovation institutes. Formerly African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), IGH pioneered genomic surveillance of infectious diseases in Nigeria, leading research into Ebola, Lassa fever, COVID-19, mpox, dengue fever, malaria, hepatitis, as well as zoonotic diseases (which can spread from animals to humans and vice versa).
Since its founding in 2014, the centre has made considerable impact on Nigeria, and Africa’s, public health landscape with cutting-edge reseach and innovation. The institute In 2020, ACEGID sequenced Africa’s first SARS-COV-2 genome, helping public health officials to promptly gain critical evidence for effective policy making. the centre has built genomics capacity for scientists in 53 African countries.
During its 10th anniversary, ACEGID evolved into the Institute of Genomics and Global Health. In addition to ACEGID, the IGH hosts four other centres: International Centre of Excellence for Malaria Research, Centre for One Health and Zoonotic Research and Surveillance, the Centre for Data Science and Virtual Reality, and Human Genome Centre.