In advancing the course of its establishment, the University for Development Studies (UDS) identified a yawning gap in the availability of equipment and facilities for training, research and community outreach in Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology within its catchment area. The University therefore approved the inclusion, within its academic curriculum, of a Diagnostic Imaging Research Centre (DIRC) to oversee the operationalization of a proposal for the establishment of a DIRC Facility for training of various cadre of professionals in imaging sciences, to support research in diagnostic imaging sciences, and to provide clinical imaging services to the general public.

The DIRC, in collaboration with various units of the University, went through a rigorous process of identifying a private investor to invest in a DIRC Facility to be situated on the Dungu Campus of the University. Subsequently, the University accepted an expression of interest to invest in the Facility submitted by Skamed Company Limited (SCL), a medical engineering company.

On August 25, 2023, the two Parties signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to legally authorize SCL to construct and manage an ultra-modern diagnostic imaging and radiology facility as an independent unit of the DIRC on the Dungu Campus of the University. The first phase of the project is expected to begin operations within eighteen (18) months from the date of the MOA.

When completed, the Facility will provide diagnostic imaging and radiology, training, research, and clinical services in the areas of X-ray, computed tomography (CT), mammography, dental X-ray, fluoroscopy, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 

(Story by UDS Media team)