Benin trains first drug quality control specialists
12 graduates from the University of Abomey-Calavi are now equipped to ensure the safety of medicines.
Benin has trained its first 12 specialists in drug quality control, graduating on Monday, October 26, 2026. This Master's program, the first of its kind in Benin, aims to protect citizens from risks associated with unsafe medicines and health products. The graduates, with backgrounds in biology, chemistry, and pharmacy, will verify the quality of products to prevent deaths from substandard items.
Professor Archille YEMOA, the Master's Coordinator, stated that the program was created due to a recognized need for quality control specialists in Benin and the wider sub-region. The graduates are prepared to work in pharmaceutical, agri-food, and cosmetic industries, as well as regulatory agencies. The University of Abomey-Calavi's Faculty of Health Sciences developed the program to strengthen national capacity.
The Minister of Health, Professor Benjamin HOUNKPATIN, who was the patron of the graduating class, urged the new specialists to uphold ethics, rigor, and empathy in their work. The Rector of the University, Professor Charlemagne IGUE, reminded them of their duty to serve humanity and protect public health. This initiative enhances Benin's ability to ensure product quality and safeguard its population.
Why it mattersBenin's population will be better protected from unsafe medicines and health products.