The American Chemical Society, ACS, has trained no fewer than 100 secondary schools chemistry teachers, academic staff of tertiary institutions technologists and students, on chemical laboratory safety in Sokoto State.
DAILY NIGERIAN reports the training was conducted in collaboration with the Department of Chemistry of the Sokoto State University International Student Chapter.
A statement on Saturday, by the Information Officer of the university, Zayyanu Shehu, said the one-day workshop drew participants from Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara States.
Speaking during the workshop, the Faculty Adviser, Sokoto State University, American Chemical Society Chapter, Dr. Thompson Izuagie, pointed out a view to sharing knowledge and experience on chemical safety with managers and operators of chemistry laboratories in order to improve chemical laboratory practices in the participating states.
He added that the knowledge and chemical safety would help prepare chemistry students for the global workplace challenges.
In his remarks, the Head, Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Prof. Aminu Bayawa, said the training covered topics on laboratory safety measures to include Chemical Safety, Good Laboratory Practices and Personal Protective Equipment.
Others include Efficient Waste Disposal and Management, Fire Safety and Chemistry Practical during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mr Bayawa, who was one of the facilitators of the programme, expressed optimism that the workshop would go a long way in equipping the trainees with all the required laboratory safety precautions.
According to him, the knowledge gained will reduce the incessant exposure of both the students and their teachers to avoidable laboratory hazards.
In his goodwill message, the Vice-Chancellor, Sokoto State University, Prof. Sani Dangoggo, urged the participants to utilize the opportunity by putting the skills acquired into practice.
The VC, who was represented by the Head, Department of Chemistry, Dr. Muhammad Sirajo, disclosed that the university’s Chemistry programme was recently accredited by the ACS to develop safety skills in students and prepare them for a global workplace practice.
