A visit to the PCR lab at the Fatima Jinnah Institute of Chest Diseases, Quetta, was organized for 7th-semester Biotechnology students from BUITEMS, Quetta. The visit, coordinated by Dr. Haleema Sadia from BUITEMS and PTP/PRL Balochistan, aimed to provide students with hands-on insight into the diagnostic procedures conducted at the hospital and expose them to the machinery used in testing. A group of 22 students participated, arriving at the hospital at 10:30 AM after departing from the university at 10:00 AM.
Upon arrival, the students were warmly welcomed by Mr. Rauf, a senior microbiologist and PhD candidate, who provided an introduction about himself and the lab. After a brief refreshment break, the students were divided into three groups of seven, and masks were distributed for safety.
The visit began at the reception area, where students observed the receptionist collecting samples and completing patient forms. The instructor explained the types of samples collected and different forms of TB, which the students found highly informative. After a brief Q&A session, the group entered the BSL-2 lab. Safety gear was provided before entry to protect against airborne diseases like TB. Inside, students observed the process of culturing samples and mixing them with media and chemicals to prepare for further testing.
Next, the students were introduced to the GeneXpert PCR machine used for testing samples. They observed how the results, indicating the presence or absence of TB, were generated and displayed on a computer screen. The computer operator explained the operation of the machine and the types of outputs it produced.
The visit continued to the conventional PCR lab and the Line Probe Assay area, where students learned about additional testing methods. Mr. Rauf's detailed knowledge of these procedures greatly enhanced the students' learning experience.
Overall, the visit was regarded as highly informative and engaging. The students gained valuable knowledge about TB testing, which will aid their future studies. It was recommended that such visits be integrated into the curriculum to enhance learning through practical exposure, and the students expressed enthusiasm for more opportunities like this in the future.