UNZA to develop medical ventilators to fight COVID-19

THE University of Zambia (UNZA) has been awarded a K100, 000 grant by the National Technology Business Centre (NTBC) to develop a prototype of medical ventilators. Higher Education Minister Brian Mushimba called on all universities not to turn their institutions into places of politicking but places for innovations. He was speaking when he handed over the cheque at UNZA main campus yesterday. Dr. Mushimba said that his ministry was responsible for the promotion of science technology and innovation in the country and that in fulfillment of that task it implements its strategies through institutions such as NTBC. ‘’NTBC is contributing towards the development of medical ventilators through UNZA in an effort to supplement Government efforts in managing taking care of Covid-19 patients,” he said. Dr Mushimba said the ministry was hopeful that the grant of K100, 000 would go a long way in production of the proposed medical ventilators, improve on the quality of medical ventilators, explore more efficient and cleaner methods of producing the technology. He also noted that in an effort to make significant contribution to the national Covid-19 preparedness, there was need in ensuring local production of additional medical ventilators. And NTBC director Kasase Chitundu reiterated his institution’s commitment to ensuring the success of the project and that they were ready to take part in the subsequent stages of commercialisation and transfer of the technology. Dr Chitundu said that he was of no doubt that through the grant, UNZA would develop feasible and efficient medical ventilators that will enhance governments fight against Covid-19.