Headergrafik BioMex

The BioMex Certificate Programme:

Shaping the Future of Biotechnology in Rwanda

Discover BioMex, your gateway to the captivating world of biotechnology. Going beyond a conventional certification programme, BioMex welcomes you on a transformative journey into the dynamic realm of biopharmaceuticals. Immerse yourself in the cutting-edge of biotechnological innovation as BioMex unfolds the dynamic future of this field amidst Rwanda's development. Customize your flexible certificate, study at your own pace, and engage with a community of passionate enthusiasts. Embark on a journey brimming with knowledge, growth, and shared passion for biotechnology.

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Pioneering Biotechnological Growth in Rwanda: Unleashing Potential and Charting Future Paths

In the heart of Africa, Rwanda emerges as a promising frontier in the realm of biotechnology, poised for exponential growth and transformative development. Recognizing this potential, European institutions, in partnership with the GIZ, have embarked on a collaborative initiative. Aimed at propelling Rwanda's biotechnology sector to new heights, this strategic collaboration is driven by a shared vision to empower Rwanda and contribute to the continent's burgeoning biotechnological landscape.
Amidst the shadows of a tragic past, Rwanda stands at the precipice of a new era, embracing the opportunities that biotechnology brings. With a vision for self-sufficiency and reducing dependency on imports, Rwanda is set to redefine its narrative. The Biomex Initiative becomes a catalyst for change, a platform where European expertise converges with Rwandan aspirations, fostering innovation, sustainability, and the pursuit of a brighter future.
This is more than a collaboration; it's a commitment to harnessing biotechnological advancements for the benefit of Rwanda and the broader African community. Join us on this journey, where knowledge, innovation, and collaboration converge to shape the dynamic landscape of biotechnology in Rwanda and beyond.

The BioMex Certificate Programme- Fostering Collaborative Excellence in Biotech Education

The BioMex Certificate Programme is a collaborative effort between Rwandan and European institutions.Supported by the Special Initiative "Decent Work for a Just Transition" of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by GIZ, this project is led by Centre for Distance Learning Programmes at Universities of Applied Sciences (zfh) in partnership with the University of Rwanda, University of Applied Sciences Koblenz, University of Parma, and Institute of Applied Sciences Ruhengeri (INES Ruhengeri).

A dedicated committee of experts carefully designs the curriculum of the BioMex programme, ensuring its excellence and high quality. Encompassing Biotechnology, Biomedicine, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Technology, Innovation Management, Intercultural Cooperation, Facility, Energy, and Environmental Management, the competence cluster guarantees a comprehensive and top-notch educational experience. Since its launch in December 2023, BioMex has transcended the conventional boundaries of an educational program; it stands as a beacon of promise for those seeking transformative experiences in the dynamic field of biotechnology.
This visionary initiative extends beyond mere skill enhancement; it is a commitment to fostering profound cultural exchange between Rwandan and German companies and workers. The content delivered is not only informative but also a gateway to diverse career opportunities, enabling individuals to carve unique paths in the biotechnology industry. The ongoing collaborations and partnerships actively contribute to the international orientation of the project. Following a successful pilot phase, the modular courses will be extended to German students and specialists in 2026.

Unlock Your Biotech Career: Build Your Professional Profile

Embark on a journey into the dynamic realm of biotechnology, extending far beyond traditional sectors. The BioMex initiative is dedicated to providing participants with specialized training through an all-encompassing certificate programme. Our mission is to professionally prepare individuals for the ever-evolving biotechnology sector. Taught by expert lecturers from three nations, our certificate programme acts as your gateway to diverse career opportunities in medicine, healthcare, industrial production, and agriculture. Globally recognized as one of the fastest-growing branches of science, biotechnology holds immense economic and socio-political potential.
Choosing a career in biotechnology means immersing yourself in a realm where you actively engage with biological organisms, creating applications in medicine, healthcare, industrial production, and agriculture. This dynamic field isn't just a sector; it's a pathway to innovation and progress.
Our certificate programme is your key to meeting the demands of the emerging biotechnology sector in Rwanda and establishing your career. With a focus on innovative learning methods, blended learning excellence, and future-ready education, you'll connect with the cutting edge of pharmacy and contribute to Rwanda's future by aiding in disease cure and vaccine development.

Programme Benefits

Tailored Learning Experience: Shape your academic journey with the flexibility to create a personalized profile, ensuring readiness for the dynamic biotechnology job market.

Blended Learning Excellence: Immerse yourself in interactive digital learning through platforms and instructional videos.

Future-Ready Education: Anticipate upcoming modules as we continuously enhance our program. Follow our channels for regular updates and connections. Stay informed, stay ahead.

Career Opportunities: Qualify for biotechnological laboratories and explore diverse career pathways through our extensive partnerships within the sector. Launch your career with BioMex and unfold opportunities tailored to your ambitions

Certification Levels

Flexible Certification Levels: Your Path, Your Choice

- Microdegree: From 3 ECTS

- Certificate of Advanced Studies: From 10 ECTS

- Diploma of Advanced Studies: From 30 ECTS

The BioMex programme is constantly being developed and currently offers 4 competence clusters with the following modules:

Cluster Biotechnology & Biomedicine

Molecular Biology and Molecular Biotechnology

This module reviews and examines the major components of molecular biology. The aim of this module is to provide extensive knowledge of biology at a molecular level. It will cover a range of topics including genome structure, replication and repair; the transcription, RNA processing and translation; regulation of gene expression as well as discuss the methods and laboratory techniques of molecular biology.

Biostatistics and Data Literacy

This course offers an introduction into biostatistics and data literacy. Descriptive statistics, estimation, confidence intervals and hypothesis tests are covered. The introduced statistical methods are presented together with examples and corresponding code for the free and open-source software package R.

Physiology and Anatomy

This module provides an in-depth understanding of the human body’s organs and systems, including the skeletal, muscular, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. It covers essential physiological concepts and common diseases like heart attacks and diabetes. The course combines theoretical learning with practical applications to help students connect textbook knowledge to everyday health and wellness.

Molecular Cell Biology

This module explores the intricate world of cells, the fundamental units of life. It covers key processes like DNA function, protein dynamics, and intracellular transport, alongside advanced technologies such as genome editing and live cell imaging. Students will gain a deep understanding of molecular cell biology and its potential for medical advancements.

Immunbiology

This module provides a comprehensive understanding of the immune system and its critical role in protecting the body from diseases. It covers the key components of innate and adaptive immunity, with a focus on T and B cells. The course also explores the immune system's role in health and disease, offering insights into how immunological knowledge can lead to modern treatment approaches.

Medical Microbiology

Cluster Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Technology

Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacology

The module in Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Chemistry offers an introduction to these two disciplines which are fundamental to understand the molecular action of drugs. Basic concepts will be provided along with methodological instruments to understand and discuss the therapeutic values of drugs, their toxicity and side-effects and issues related to their industrial productions.

Basic Concepts in Pharmaceutical Industry

This module introduces the key principles that drive modern pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries. It covers drug development, production, and quality control, highlighting the impact of pharmaceutical forms on medicine efficacy. Students will explore essential processes like pre-formulation, industrial scale-up, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). By the end, they will have a strong understanding of excipients, preparation methods, and the ability to evaluate dosage form implications.

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Quality Controls

This module provides essential training on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), a set of standards that ensure the quality, safety, and consistency of pharmaceutical production. Participants will learn about key GMP principles, manufacturing site operations, hygiene, clean room classifications, and quality control processes. With a focus on current GMP (cGMP) standards, the course offers practical insights through video demonstrations, reference materials, and assessments, preparing students for regulatory and industry demands.

Fundamentals in Epidemiology and Clinical Trials

This module introduces key epidemiologic concepts for understanding the causes and distribution of health inequalities, focusing on methods to measure and minimize bias. Students will learn to conduct basic data analysis using R software, applying epidemiological methods to real-world public health scenarios. Topics include measures of disease occurrence and association, common epidemiologic study designs, and the fundamentals of clinical trials, such as randomization, blinding, and statistical analyses

Cluster Innovation Management and Intercultural Cooperation

Innovation Management

This module focuses on Innovation Management and Sustainable Development, aiming to prepare students with expertise aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. It combines theory, practice, and collaborative projects to explore innovation principles, problem-solving, and effective presentation techniques, emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making to tackle real-world challenges.

Intercultural Communication and Mediation

This online module immerses students in cultural diversity across continents using Virtual Reality (VR). Structured around Bloom’s Taxonomy, it covers cultural norms and communication styles from various regions through interactive VR experiences and case studies. Students will enhance their cross-cultural communication skills and cultural sensitivity through quizzes, essays, and group projects, preparing them to thrive in diverse, global environments.

Cluster Facility, Energy and Environmental Management

Facility Management

This module provides a thorough introduction to the essential technical systems for building operation and optimization. Covering areas like HVAC, electrical engineering, and safety technology, it focuses on system planning, installation, maintenance, and energy efficiency. Students will gain skills in diagnosing technical issues, adapting systems to local conditions, and applying modern technologies like IoT for enhanced facility management.

Environmental Management

This module delves into key aspects of environmental protection, focusing on sustainability, environmental impacts, and resource efficiency. Students will gain insights into the history of environmental protection, evaluate environmental impacts using various footprints, and learn about integrating sustainability into corporate practices. The course also covers methods for assessing resource efficiency and addresses the challenges related to the availability of natural resources.

Energy Management

The "Energy Management" module offers a thorough examination of energy systems, from foundational principles to cutting-edge applications. Students explore energy technologies, including generation, conversion, and various sources such as solar, wind, and water. The module covers measurement technology, control engineering, and automation, providing hands-on experience with simulation tools. Emphasis is placed on sustainability, safety protocols, and optimization strategies for efficient energy use in diverse settings, preparing students for roles in renewable energy and power management.

Introducing our lecturers

Prof. Dr. Maik Lehmann
- Head of BioMex Programme,
Molecular Cell Biology

 

Maik Lehmann studied Chemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in Marburg, Oxford and Heidelberg, completed his doctorate at the German Cancer Research Centre in Heidelberg and then worked as a postdoc at the Yale University School of Medicine. He was project leader at the BioQuant Centre for Systems Biology in Heidelberg and became research group leader at the Humboldt University of Berlin. Since 2015, he has been Professor of Biochemistry, Cell Biology and Microbiology at the Technical University of Applied Sciences Bingen. Maik Lehmann is the initiator of the BioMex certificate programme in Rwanda.

Dr. Thierry Habyarimana
- Head Expert Commission Board,
Molecular Biology and Molecular Biotechnology

 

Dr. Thierry Habyarimana is Biomedical Scientist who completed his PhD in Molecular Oncology from Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco after completing a Specialized Master’s degree in Life & Health Sciences & Technologies from the same University. He is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences at INES-Ruhengeri. His research and publications include infectious diseases, host-pathogen interaction and cancer. He has an extensive experience in academics and in biomedical research projects working with people from different countries, cultures, and research background.

Prof. Dr. Claudia Hensel
- Cluster Innovation Management & Intercultural Cooperation

 

After several years of professional activity in research and marketing, Prof. Dr. Claudia Hensel worked as a consultant and teacher in countries such as Iran, China, Zambia and Argentina. Her intercultural expertise included not only the development of partnership programmes, but also publications with Ethiopian Researchers on Agri-food issues. She is also member of the lead advisor board of the German based NGO Welthungerhilfe being responsible for Sub-Sahara Africa. Prof. Dr. Claudia Hensel represents at the University of Applied Sciences Mainz, Germany, the discipline International Marketing with a strong focus on ethics and emerging and underserved markets.

Prof. Dr. Neuhäuser
- Biostatistics and Data Literacy

 

As a biostatistician Prof. Dr. Markus Neuhäuser worked for academia and industry; since 2006 he is professor of statistics at Koblenz University of Applied Sciences. His main research interests are nonparametric methods, application of statistics in life sciences and especially in clinical trials. He has published many research articles and a few textbooks.

Prof. Dr. Gabriele Costantino
- Elements of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacology

 

Gabriele Costantino is professor of Medicinal Chemistry at University of Parma, where he served as Director of the Department of Food and Drugs from 2016 to 2023. The main research interests, documented by more than 210 publications, have been the design and synthesis of neuroprotective agents, metabolic modulators (he was part of the team which discovered obeticholic acid, now marketed for the treatment of primary biliary cirrhosis) and antibiotics adjuvant drugs. More recently, Gabriele has focused his interest in the bioprospecting of plants as source of active ingredients for pharmaceutical, cosmetic and nutraceutical products. Gabriele has been president of the Italian Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Vice-President of the Italian Chemical Society and President of the Italian Conference of the Deans of the Faculties of Pharmacy.

Prof. Dr. Bernard Omolo
- Fundamentals in Epidemiology and Clinical Trials

 

Prof. Dr. Bernard Omolo earned his PhD in Mathematical Statistics from Texas Tech University, an MPH, and a postdoc in cancer genomics and biostatistics at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill. His research has focused on the development and application of statistical methods in genomics, genetics, public health, and the environment, and has been funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Burroughs Wellcome Fund (BWF) and the Simons Foundation. Currently, he is a Professor of Statistics at the University of South Carolina – Upstate. Prof. Omolo is a former Chair of the Division of Mathematics & Computer Science at the University of South Carolina – Upstate and holds visiting and honorary professor positions in universities in East and Southern Africa.

Prof. Dr. - Ing. Sebastian Schrems
- Environmental Management

 

Prior to his academic role in the field of Life Cycle Management, Sebastian Schrems gained industrial experience in various leading positions in production engineering, project management and production management. His academic career began as a Research Associate and Senior Engineer at the Institute of Production Management, Technology, and Tool Machines at TU Darmstadt, in the research field of energy and resource efficiency of production processes. Since 2023 he is Professor for Life Cycle Assessment and Circular Economy at the Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen.

Prof. Dr. Lukas Scheef
- Physiology and Anatomy

 

Lukas Scheef studied Physics and Medicine at Friedrich-Wilhelm University in Bonn, Germany, and Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire, USA. As a fully licensed physician, he worked at the Department of Radiology of the University Hospital Bonn, focusing on functional brain imaging and as a consultant for the German Center for Degenerative Diseases (DZNE). Since 2020, he has been a professor for Biomedical Engineering in Sports Medicine at the Department of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Engineering at the University of Applied Sciences, Koblenz. In addition to teaching basic science courses such as Mathematics for Engineers, Basic Anatomy & Physiology, and Programming, he also offers courses in exercise physiology, ergonomics, and prevention. His research focuses on the development of wearable electronics for remote health applications and for prediction and prevention in personalized medicine.

Dr. Sebastian Newrzela
- Immunotherapy

 

Dr. Sebastian Newrzela studied Biology in Frankfurt, Germany. He finished his doctoral thesis in 2008 at the Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy Georg-Speyer-Haus and the Harvard Medical School in Boston, with the focus on retroviral-based T-cell gene therapy for HIV. Thereafter he worked as a postdoc and project leader at the Dr. Petra-Joh Haus until 2010 and started his career as a principal investigator in 2012 at the Dr. Senckenberg Institute for Pathology, Frankfurt in the research field of mature T-cell lymphoma. In 2016 Dr. Newrzela joined BioNTech Cell & Gene Therapies in Mainz, where he is heading the Immunoreceptor Validation department.  

Emanuela Previtali
- Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Quality Controls

 

Emanuela Previtali earned her Degree in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technologies at Milan University (BSc) in November 1987 and her Master’s Degree (MSc) "G. Benzi" in Regulatory Affairs in March 2012. From 1989 to 2009, she worked at Farma Resa Srl, gaining extensive experience in GMP with a focus on Investigational Medicinal Products (IMPs). She held roles in Quality Assurance (QA) and Qualified Person (QP), overseeing production, packaging, labeling, and release of oral dosage forms. Since 2010, she has been a GMP Quality Assurance consultant, auditor, and Regulatory Affairs advisor, specializing in IMP documentation. She is also a partner and co-owner at QOMNIA Srl, a service company supporting GxP needs in the pharmaceutical industry

Michel Alt
- Energy Management

 

Michel Alt holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering with a focus on Electrical Engineering from Aschaffenburg University of Applied Sciences. After working in design at a manufacturer for battery systems, he pursued a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering with a focus on Product and Process Management at the Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen Friedberg University of Applied Sciences. Since completing his Master’s in 2020, he has been working at the university, responsible for the practical content of courses in Electrical Engineering, Measurement and Control Technology, and Integrated Building Technology.

Second cohort of 48 BioMex students start their Certificate Programme

Second BioMex-Kick-off- Event

The second kick-off event for our second cohort of BioMex students took place on 24 September. A day full of lively exchanges, team-building challenges and initial introductions to the modules and competence clusters has come to an end.
We are delighted that you are part of our BioMex journey and wish you every success with your certificate!

BioMex at the Rwanda Day in the state chancellery of Mainz

We had the honour to present the Biomex Certificate Programme at the Rwanda Day in Mainz.

Thank you very much for the opportunity and the inspiring exchange!

First cohort of the BioMex Certificate Programme has started

Two-Day Kick-off Event took place

We welcomed our first students at the two-day kick-off event.
On the first day, we celebrated our opening at the Kigali Convention Centre to coincide with the eLearning Africa conference. In addition to an opening speech by the Minister of Education of Rwanda, Claudette Irere, and German Abassador to Rwanda Heike Uta Dettmann, the participants of our kickoff event took part in our panel discussion and subsequent Q&A session. The exchange was very stimulating and inspiring.
On the second day, we got to know our BioMex students better and shared some great moments with them during our team-building activities. 
We would like to thank GIZ for the organisation and all participants for enriching our event. 

Thank you for being part in our BioMex Journey!

BioMex honoured with "Study Project of the Year 2024", Category "Social Commitment"

We're thrilled to announce that we've been honoured with the prestigious "Study Project of the Year 2024" award in the category of "Social Commitment" by an expert jury of the Federal Association of Distance Learning Providers (Bundesverband der Fernstudienanbieter). 
The association has been awarding study prizes in several categories for over 35 years and we are taking part this year.

The study prize will be awarded on 6 June at the LEARNTEC trade fair in Karlsruhe. See you there!

BioMex at the 13th RPSA Congress in Kigali

We recently showcased our certificate programme at the 13th Congress of the Rwanda Pharmaceutical Students Association (RPSA) from March 1st to 3rd 2024. It was an amazing opportunity to connect with medical and pharmacy students, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals, researchers, and the healthcare industry.

First trip to Rwanda in 2023

Our Project has started. We went to Kigali in October 2023 and deepened our relations in a delegation trip organised by the GIZ (German Development Cooperation). Prof. Dr. Maik Lehmann (TH Bingen) as the designated head of the certificate programme and Marc Bludau, Managing Director of the zfh, took part.

You can see more impressions of the trip here...

Contact us

For business matters contact us via biomex@zfh.de    

For press inquiries contact us via press-biomex@zfh.de

For individual advice and personal requests, please contact us via coaching-biomex@zfh.de

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