MS program stages first Purdue graduation in Africa

Commencement procession

In the first Purdue University commencement staged in Africa, 22 students received their Master of Science in Technology Leadership and Innovation in Moshi, Tanzania. The degree, with a concentration in biotechnology innovation and regulatory science (BIRS), is offered through the Purdue Polytechnic Institute and its Center for Professional Studies.

Class of 2016Kari Clase, program co-director and an associate professor of technology leadership and innovation there is more to the program than simply providing a classroom for the students

“They are going to impact East Africa as they develop and implement quality management systems to provide better health to their continent,” she said. “Their work will help ensure that quality medicine is available in Africa, which is not always the case now.”

The program emphasizes a blend of hands-on learning and current technology in its teaching. Partners, including Merck Foundation, provided funding and coordinated a scientist-in-kind program to help teach courses.

Read the full story from Purdue News Service.

See the photo album of the commencement.