International Virtual Course of Vaccine Development – How are vaccines developed and how do they work?

After the success of International Virtual Course (IVC) in 2020, School of Pharmacy held 3 (IVC) in 2021. One of it is IVC – Vaccine Development, this program had been running from 28 June-9 July 2021.

As the world faces the greatest global pandemic of our lifetimes, the critical importance of vaccine development has come to the forefront of scientific and public audiences alike. However, few of us understand what this means, beyond understanding it is a possible barrier against infection or pandemic. How are vaccines developed and how do they work? Will all the type of vaccines be the same? How will we know if the vaccine is safe and effective? This course comprehensively discussed, starting with the basics: immune system and vaccine mechanism of action. Further, the production, formulation, and the manufacturing process of vaccines in the industry, along with the updates in vaccine development. One important aspect that caught the attention of public, its halal issue, also be a part of the explanation during the course.

The IVC opened by Vice Dean of Academics, Dr. Elfahmi then continued with presentation from speakers, one speaker for one day. For this year, the guest lecturers came from the Germany, Japan, UK, and Indonesia. They are from researchers, academics, research institute, industry, and government.

While done in the online method, many students and professional (non student) are still interested in joining this program, not only from Indonesia but also international participant. This fact can be seen from the various student countries of origin, Australia, China, Japan, Laos, Libya, Malaysia, Nepal, Philippines, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Thailand.

Although implemented virtually, the IVC – Vaccine Development program was finished well. Since the students came from several countries and did not know one another before. To increase the engagement between participant so they can know each other, at the end of the IVC, committee held Cultural Session. From beginning, participant divided into several group then they worked together to present about the culture from their country. After cultural session, the IVC was closed by Dean of School of Pharmacy, Prof. I Ketut Adnyana Ph.D.