The National Polio Containment Verification Committee (NPCVC), conducted a comprehensive assessment of the Alupe University’s laboratories to ensure compliance with national and global biosafety standards.
The visit is part of Kenya’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a polio-free status and adhering to the World Health Organization (WHO) requirements for handling polio virus related specimens within medical laboratories in the country.
Photo: National Polio Containment Verification Committee team inspects the microbiology & Chemistry Laboratory at Alupe University, on Tuesday 2nd, 2025
The NPCVC team aimed at inspecting the laboratories for any stored materials that might contain polio viruses including clinical, environmental, or research specimens and to evaluate procedures for their safe management and disposal.
Photo: NPCVC delegation at the Human Pathology lab that also houses the Alupe University Funeral Parlor
Speaking during the visit, Prof Patrick Kenya the committee representatives for the national task force for ministry of health verification commission on polio containment emphasized that all institutions handling biological materials have a critical role in mitigating any risk of polio virus re-introduction.
The verification team was received by the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics, Research and Student’s Affair_ Prof Margret Orina, Deans of Schools, heads of laboratories, and technical staff from the School of Health Sciences.
The team noted that Kenya continues to strengthen its surveillance and containment measures following global guidelines, especially as the world moves closer to complete eradication of the virus.
The thorough inspection covered; specimen storage systems, biosafety cabinets, record keeping processes, waste management protocols, and overall laboratory infrastructure. They also evaluated the university’s readiness to classify, transport, and dispose of specimens that may pose a risk, in line with the National Polio virus Containment Plan.
The University laboratory personnel were taken through key procedures for identifying polio virus-associated materials and guided on proper disposal measures. Technical aspects about inactivation, secure transportation to designated disposal facilities, and strict documentation for traceability were emphasized. The committee also provided recommendations to further strengthen biosafety practices and ensure ongoing compliance.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (ARSA), Prof Margret Orina expressed appreciation for the national team’s visit, noting that Alupe University remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of public health safety. “As a research and training institution, we take biosafety seriously. This verification exercise helps us uphold global health standards while protecting our students, staff, and the wider community,” she said.
The visit concluded with a feedback session where the committee highlighted areas of strength and outlined action points for continuous improvement. The university affirmed its commitment to implementing all recommendations and supporting Kenya’s polio eradication and containment goals.
By Victoria Magar & Savai Sabwa,
Alupe University Media