Frontiers in Bioinformatics (Jun 2024)

Bioinformatics proficiency among African students

  • Ashraf Akintayo Akintola,
  • Ashraf Akintayo Akintola,
  • Abdullahi Tunde Aborode,
  • Abdullahi Tunde Aborode,
  • Muhammed Taofiq Hamza,
  • Muhammed Taofiq Hamza,
  • Augustine Amakiri,
  • Augustine Amakiri,
  • Benjamin Moore,
  • Suliat Abdulai,
  • Suliat Abdulai,
  • Oluyinka Ajibola Iyiola,
  • Lateef Adegboyega Sulaimon,
  • Lateef Adegboyega Sulaimon,
  • Effiong Effiong,
  • Effiong Effiong,
  • Adedeji Ogunyemi,
  • Boluwatife Dosunmu,
  • Abdulkadir Yusif Maigoro,
  • Abdulkadir Yusif Maigoro,
  • Opeyemi Lawal,
  • Kayode Raheem,
  • Kayode Raheem,
  • Ui Wook Hwang,
  • Ui Wook Hwang,
  • Ui Wook Hwang

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fbinf.2024.1328714
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 4

Abstract

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Bioinformatics, the interdisciplinary field that combines biology, computer science, and data analysis, plays a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of life sciences. In the African context, where the diversity of biological resources and healthcare challenges is substantial, fostering bioinformatics literacy and proficiency among students is important. This perspective provides an overview of the state of bioinformatics literacy among African students, highlighting the significance, challenges, and potential solutions in addressing this critical educational gap. It proposes various strategies to enhance bioinformatics literacy among African students. These include expanding educational resources, fostering collaboration between institutions, and engaging students in research projects. By addressing the current challenges and implementing comprehensive strategies, African students can harness the power of bioinformatics to contribute to innovative solutions in healthcare, agriculture, and biodiversity conservation, ultimately advancing the continent’s scientific capabilities and improving the quality of life for her people. In conclusion, promoting bioinformatics literacy among African students is imperative for the continent’s scientific development and advancing frontiers of biological research.

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