Promoting Neuroscience Research and Education in Limited-resource Settings: Neuroscience-in-view at the University of Rwanda

This study aimed to enhance awareness of neuroscience research and education among postgraduate and undergraduate students at the University of Rwanda. Twenty-five participants were split into five groups (n=5) and underwent a one-day training that included neurobehavior, neurohistology, methods of drug administration (intraperitoneal, intramuscular, subcutaneous, and oral), animal euthanasia via cervical dislocation, dissection, transcardiac brain perfusion, brain harvesting, and fixation. Animals were sourced with permission from NIRDA, and all participants consented to the study. Data were collected through a Google feedback form, stored in Microsoft Excel, and analyzed descriptively. Results showed that participants comprised 80% males and 20% females. Most participants (84%) were satisfied with the workshop, 64% gained animal handling skills, 56% showed increased interest in neuroscience, and 48% acknowledged the significance of routine hematoxylin and eosin staining.