Eaitsam Akram, a Chemical Engineer, Certified Safety Professional (CSP), and NEBOSH-certified safety specialist, leads the health and occupational safety cell at the Syed Babar Ali School of Science and Engineering LUMS. His responsibility encompasses ensuring the safety of all research and development facilities, fostering a secure environment for faculty, staff, students, and researchers.
To strengthen the school's safety management systems, Eaitsam was encouraged by Dr. Shaper Mirza, Associate Professor in the Department of Life Sciences, to attend a specialized training course at the Center for International Health at the University of Bergen, Norway. The course, titled "Occupational Health (INTC310B)," was a rigorous month-long program designed to enhance expertise in occupational health and safety.
Eaitsam arrived in Norway on January 6, 2025, and dedicated himself to intensive learning until January 31, 2025. The program provided an in-depth exploration of occupational health in various industries, including petroleum, textiles, agriculture, and healthcare. Course topics ranged from occupational toxicology, health surveillance, musculoskeletal disorders, workplace vibrations, noise-induced hearing loss, occupational cancer, and heat stress.

A key component of the program was field visits to leading occupational health and safety facilities, including Equinor Refinery at Sandsliveien 90, Fire brigade station, the Department of Occupational Health at Arstadhuset, and Arsana Occupational Health Service at Strandgaten 14. These visits provided practical insights into the implementation of safety protocols and risk management strategies in different workplaces. The training was led by Dr. Bente Elisabeth Moen, with supporting faculty H. Mwanga and SHD Mamuya from Tanzania.

Beyond academics, Eaitsam embraced the cultural diversity of his experience. Staying at the Montana Hostel near the University of Bergen, he found joy in the company of his fellow participants, sharing meals and exchanging ideas in a global learning environment. The experience enriched not just his professional knowledge but also his appreciation for international collaboration.

This opportunity was made possible due to the unwavering support of Dr. Shaper Mirza, who identified and facilitated the opportunity, Dr. Walther Schwarzacher, Dean of SBASSE, who provided his full backing, and Dr. Tehmina Mustafa, a professor at the University of Bergen, whose coordination efforts ensured a seamless experience.
Eaitsam extends his sincere gratitude to his colleagues in the Safety Committee and the Safety Cell at SBASSE, who managed operations in his absence, allowing him to focus on his training. Their support reflects the collective commitment towards fostering a safer and more progressive research environment at SBASSE. Armed with enhanced knowledge and expertise, Eaitsam is now better equipped to implement advanced safety protocols and risk mitigation strategies, ensuring that SBASSE remains at the forefront of occupational health and safety excellence.