"It was a once in lifetime opportunity to showcase my potential and to represent my country."

I completed my internship in the laboratory at Klinikum Bayreuth, a hospital in Bavaria. My main activities included manual and automated sampling of culturing system, automated bacteria identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing using agar diffusion, serial dilution and automated methods. Furthermore, I did molecular diagnostic analyses in infection diagnostic and gained insights into special aspects of sepsis diagnostics. I also familiarized myself with the current European standards in microbiological diagnostics, the German hygiene guidelines and aspects of infection prevention in hospital operations.

I learnt many laboratory diagnostic techniques that are necessary for the African continent, ranging from manual to automated systems as well as the laboratory information management system.

I was impressed by the teamworking spirit of the staff and how most of the laboratory tests are automated, which reduces human error and speeds up health decision making.

I also engaged in scientific discussions with the laboratory experts, shared cultural insights and discussed about education, research, laboratory and health system in Rwanda. It was a unique opportunity. I'm looking forward to sharing the skills and getting involved as progress is made in my home country of Rwanda.

I chose Team works! to get the exposure to and involvement in the skills that are less likely to be found in Africa, particularly in Rwanda. Germany is renowned for its outstanding contribution to many aspects of life around the world, especially in the health sector and education. Moreover, getting involved in AGYO program was a once in lifetime opportunity to showcase my potential and to represent my country Rwanda while sharing new perspectives and ideas.

I was very impressed by the fully automated systems in the laboratory as well as the work ethic and team spirit: everybody respects the regulations perfectly! The idea of how all people think of and plan for their future life was new to me, but I think it’s very beneficial. I also think the medical insurance scheme is great. Lastly, the German language surprised me!

My assigned senior expert, Dr. Dieter Kunz, helped me settling well in Bayreuth, Germany. In my leisure time we visited different places, and he taught me a lot about German history. It was nice to exchange perspectives on both our nations!

I would say he also enhanced my learning capabilities and supported me mentally which was elementary to the successful execution of my assignment. Lastly, he helped me create new networks. I think we were able to build a lasting connection!

1. I’d say it’s useful to learn some German beforehand.
2. Research about Germany and be culturally aware.
3. Ensure punctuality, plan ahead.
4. Germans are friendly and always willing to help if you ask them to.
5. VISA application may take some time, plan as soon as possible but don’t worry as the SES team is always ready to help!

1. Advanced microbiology laboratory test and EUCAST.
2. Teamwork.
3. German hygiene guidelines.