The missions of Biologie Sans Frontières (BSF)

Abstract

«Biologie sans Frontières» (BSF) is a non-governmental organisation whose mission is to develop medical biology where it is most needed, particularly in French-speaking Africa. In Guinea Conakry, with Fondation Mérieux and the Guinean Ministry of Health, BSF is in charge of training "trainers/teachers" of technicians. This training will take place at the National Health School of Kindia, a school that has been completely rehabilitated and re-equipped thanks to the support of Fondation Mérieux. This project is supported by the French Development Agency. BSF has an in-depth knowledge of the local needs in medical biology training. After an audit carried out by two BSF members, the findings were alarming: these trainers had no experience in medical biology and their theoretical knowledge was still of low level. Three training courses were then provided by BSF, the first in biochemistry, sero-immunology and immuno-hematology, the second in cyto-hematology and the last one in bacteriology-parasitology. The basic techniques have been acquired, the "student trainers" have shown great assiduity, but the level remains fragile and will require new training, which is essential to help these future teachers to provide structured, functional and above all useful practical work adapted to local practices and needs.