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Kasprowicz VO, Waddilove KD, Chopera D, Khumalo S, Harilall S, Wong EB, Karita E, Sanders EJ, Kilembe W, Gaseitsiwe S, Ndung’u T. Developing a diversity, equity and inclusion compass to guide scientific capacity strengthening efforts in Africa. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002339. [PMID: 38117812 PMCID: PMC10732426 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in science is vital to improve the scientific process and ensure societal uptake and application of scientific results. DEI challenges include a full spectrum of issues from the lack of, and promotion of, women in science, to the numerous barriers in place that limit representation of African scientists in global scientific efforts. DEI principles in African science remain relatively underdeveloped, with limited engagement and discussion among all stakeholders to ensure that initiatives are relevant to local environments. The Sub-Saharan African Network for TB/HIV research Excellence (SANTHE) is a network of African-led research in HIV, tuberculosis (TB), associated co-morbidities, and emerging pathogens, now based in eight African countries. Our aim, as a scientific capacity strengthening network, was to collaboratively produce a set of DEI guidelines and to represent them visually as a DEI compass. We implemented a consortium-wide survey, focus group discussions and a workshop where we were able to identify the key DEI challenges as viewed by scientists and support staff within the SANTHE network. Three thematic areas were identified: 1. Conquering Biases, 2. Respecting the Needs of a Diverse Workforce (including mental health challenges, physical disability, career stability issues, demands of parenthood, and female-specific challenges), and 3. Promotion of African Science. From this we constructed a compass that included proposed steps to start addressing these issues. The use of the compass metaphor allows 're-adjustment/re-positioning' making this a dynamic output. The compass can become a tool to establish an institution's DEI priorities and then to progress towards them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria O. Kasprowicz
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Denis Chopera
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | - Sipho Khumalo
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | - Sashin Harilall
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Emily B. Wong
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
| | - Etienne Karita
- Rwanda Zambia Health Research Group, Lusaka and Ndola, Zambia, Kigali, Rwanda
- Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Eduard J. Sanders
- Kenyan Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Centre for Clinical Vaccinology and Tropical Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, United Kingdom
- The Aurum Institute, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - William Kilembe
- Rwanda Zambia Health Research Group, Lusaka and Ndola, Zambia, Kigali, Rwanda
- Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
| | - Simani Gaseitsiwe
- Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Thumbi Ndung’u
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
- HIV Pathogenesis Programme, The Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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2
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Halpern BS, Boettiger C, Dietze MC, Gephart JA, Gonzalez P, Grimm NB, Groffman PM, Gurevitch J, Hobbie SE, Komatsu KJ, Kroeker KJ, Lahr HJ, Lodge DM, Lortie CJ, Lowndes JSS, Micheli F, Possingham HP, Ruckelshaus MH, Scarborough C, Wood CL, Wu GC, Aoyama L, Arroyo EE, Bahlai CA, Beller EE, Blake RE, Bork KS, Branch TA, Brown NEM, Brun J, Bruna EM, Buckley LB, Burnett JL, Castorani MCN, Cheng SH, Cohen SC, Couture JL, Crowder LB, Dee LE, Dias AS, Diaz‐Maroto IJ, Downs MR, Dudney JC, Ellis EC, Emery KA, Eurich JG, Ferriss BE, Fredston A, Furukawa H, Gagné SA, Garlick SR, Garroway CJ, Gaynor KM, González AL, Grames EM, Guy‐Haim T, Hackett E, Hallett LM, Harms TK, Haulsee DE, Haynes KJ, Hazen EL, Jarvis RM, Jones K, Kandlikar GS, Kincaid DW, Knope ML, Koirala A, Kolasa J, Kominoski JS, Koricheva J, Lancaster LT, Lawlor JA, Lowman HE, Muller‐Karger FE, Norman KEA, Nourn N, O'Hara CC, Ou SX, Padilla‐Gamino JL, Pappalardo P, Peek RA, Pelletier D, Plont S, Ponisio LC, Portales‐Reyes C, Provete DB, Raes EJ, Ramirez‐Reyes C, Ramos I, Record S, Richardson AJ, Salguero‐Gómez R, Satterthwaite EV, Schmidt C, Schwartz AJ, See CR, Shea BD, Smith RS, Sokol ER, Solomon CT, Spanbauer T, Stefanoudis PV, Sterner BW, Sudbrack V, Tonkin JD, Townes AR, Valle M, Walter JA, Wheeler KI, Wieder WR, Williams DR, Winter M, Winterova B, Woodall LC, Wymore AS, Youngflesh C. Priorities for synthesis research in ecology and environmental science. Ecosphere 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin S. Halpern
- National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis University of California Santa Barbara California USA
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management University of California Santa Barbara California USA
| | - Carl Boettiger
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management University of California Berkeley California USA
| | - Michael C. Dietze
- Department of Earth & Environment Boston University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Jessica A. Gephart
- Department of Environmental Science American University Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Patrick Gonzalez
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management University of California Berkeley California USA
- Institute for Parks, People, and Biodiversity University of California Berkeley California USA
| | - Nancy B. Grimm
- School of Life Sciences Arizona State University Tempe Arizona USA
| | - Peter M. Groffman
- City University of New York Advanced Science Research Center at the Graduate Center New York New York USA
- Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies Millbrook New York USA
| | - Jessica Gurevitch
- Department of Ecology and Evolution Stony Brook University Stony Brook New York USA
| | - Sarah E. Hobbie
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behavior University of Minnesota St. Paul Minnesota USA
| | | | - Kristy J. Kroeker
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Santa Cruz Santa Cruz California USA
| | - Heather J. Lahr
- National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis University of California Santa Barbara California USA
| | - David M. Lodge
- Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability Cornell University Ithaca New York USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Cornell University Ithaca New York USA
| | - Christopher J. Lortie
- National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis University of California Santa Barbara California USA
- Department of Biology York University Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Julie S. S. Lowndes
- National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis University of California Santa Barbara California USA
| | - Fiorenza Micheli
- Hopkins Marine Station, Oceans Department Stanford University Pacific Grove California USA
- Stanford Center for Ocean Solutions Pacific Grove California USA
| | - Hugh P. Possingham
- Centre for Biodiversity and Conservation Science (CBCS) The University of Queensland Brisbane Queensland Australia
| | | | - Courtney Scarborough
- National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis University of California Santa Barbara California USA
| | - Chelsea L. Wood
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
| | - Grace C. Wu
- Environmental Studies University of California Santa Barbara California USA
| | - Lina Aoyama
- Environmental Studies Program and Department of Biology University of Oregon Eugene Oregon USA
| | - Eva E. Arroyo
- Department of Ecology Evolution and Environmental Biology New York New York USA
| | | | - Erin E. Beller
- Real Estate and Workplace Services Sustainability Team Google Inc. Mountain View California USA
| | | | | | - Trevor A. Branch
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
| | - Norah E. M. Brown
- Department of Biology University of Victoria Victoria British Columbia Canada
| | - Julien Brun
- National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis University of California Santa Barbara California USA
| | - Emilio M. Bruna
- Department of Wildlife Ecology & Conservation University of Florida Gainesville Florida USA
| | - Lauren B. Buckley
- Department of Biology University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
| | - Jessica L. Burnett
- Core Science Systems Science Analytics and Synthesis U.S. Geological Survey, 8th and Kipling, Denver Federal Center Lakewood Colorado USA
| | - Max C. N. Castorani
- Department of Environmental Sciences University of Virginia Charlottesville Virginia USA
| | - Samantha H. Cheng
- Center for Biodiversity and Conservation American Museum of Natural History New York New York USA
| | - Sarah C. Cohen
- Estuary and Ocean Science Center, Biology Department San Francisco State University San Francisco California USA
| | | | - Larry B. Crowder
- Hopkins Marine Station, Oceans Department Stanford University Pacific Grove California USA
| | - Laura E. Dee
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of Colorado Boulder Colorado USA
| | - Arildo S. Dias
- Department of Physical Geography (IPG) Goethe‐Universität Frankfurt (Campus Riedberg) Frankfurt am Main Germany
| | | | - Martha R. Downs
- National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis University of California Santa Barbara California USA
| | - Joan C. Dudney
- Department of Plant Sciences UC Davis Davis California USA
| | - Erle C. Ellis
- Geography & Environmental Systems University of Maryland Baltimore Maryland USA
| | - Kyle A. Emery
- Department of Geography UC Los Angeles Los Angeles California USA
| | | | - Bridget E. Ferriss
- Resource Ecology and Fisheries Management Division Alaska Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA Seattle Washington USA
| | - Alexa Fredston
- Department of Ocean Sciences University of California Santa Cruz California USA
| | - Hikaru Furukawa
- School of Earth and Space Exploration Arizona State University Tempe Arizona USA
| | - Sara A. Gagné
- Department of Geography and Earth Sciences University of North Carolina at Charlotte Charlotte North Carolina USA
| | | | - Colin J. Garroway
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Manitoba Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
| | - Kaitlyn M. Gaynor
- Departments of Zoology and Botany University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Angélica L. González
- Department of Biology & Center for Computational and Integrative Biology Rutgers University Camden New Jersey USA
| | - Eliza M. Grames
- Department of Biology University of Nevada, Reno Reno Nevada USA
| | - Tamar Guy‐Haim
- National Institute of Oceanography Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research (IOLR) Haifa Israel
| | - Ed Hackett
- School of Human Evolution & Social Change Arizona State University Tempe Arizona USA
| | - Lauren M. Hallett
- Environmental Studies Program and Department of Biology University of Oregon Eugene Oregon USA
| | - Tamara K. Harms
- Institute of Arctic Biology and Department of Biology & Wildlife University of Alaska Fairbanks Fairbanks Alaska USA
| | - Danielle E. Haulsee
- Hopkins Marine Station, Oceans Department Stanford University Pacific Grove California USA
| | - Kyle J. Haynes
- Blandy Experimental Farm University of Virginia Boyce Virginia USA
| | - Elliott L. Hazen
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of California Santa Cruz Santa Cruz California USA
| | - Rebecca M. Jarvis
- School of Science Auckland University of Technology Auckland New Zealand
| | | | - Gaurav S. Kandlikar
- Division of Biological Sciences & Division of Plant Sciences University of Missouri Columbia Missouri USA
| | - Dustin W. Kincaid
- Vermont EPSCoR and Gund Institute for Environment University of Vermont Burlington Vermont USA
| | - Matthew L. Knope
- Department of Biology University of Hawai'i at Hilo Hilo Hawaii USA
| | - Anil Koirala
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources University of Georgia Athens Georgia USA
| | - Jurek Kolasa
- Department of Biology McMaster University Hamilton Ontario Canada
| | - John S. Kominoski
- Institute of Environment Florida International University Miami Florida USA
| | - Julia Koricheva
- Department of Biological Sciences Royal Holloway University of London Surrey UK
| | | | - Jake A. Lawlor
- Department of Biology McGill University Montreal Quebec Canada
| | - Heili E. Lowman
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science University of Nevada, Reno Reno Nevada USA
| | | | - Kari E. A. Norman
- Département de sciences biologiques Université de Montréal Montréal Québec Canada
| | - Nan Nourn
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Michigan State University East Lansing Michigan USA
| | - Casey C. O'Hara
- Bren School of Environmental Science and Management University of California Santa Barbara California USA
| | - Suzanne X. Ou
- Department of Biology Stanford University Stanford California USA
| | | | - Paula Pappalardo
- Marine Invasions Laboratory Smithsonian Environmental Research Center Tiburon California USA
| | - Ryan A. Peek
- Center for Watershed Sciences University of California Davis California USA
| | - Dominique Pelletier
- UMR DECOD, HALGO, Département Ressources Biologiques et Environnement Institut Français de Recherche pour l'Exploitation de la Mer Lorient France
| | - Stephen Plont
- Department of Biological Sciences Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg Virginia USA
| | - Lauren C. Ponisio
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology University of Oregon Eugene Oregon USA
| | | | - Diogo B. Provete
- Instituto de Biociências Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul Campo Grande Brazil
| | - Eric J. Raes
- Minderoo Foundation, Flourishing Oceans Nedlands Western Australia Australia
| | | | - Irene Ramos
- Comisión Nacional para el Conocimiento y Uso de la Biodiversidad (CONABIO) Mexico City Mexico
| | - Sydne Record
- Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Conservation Biology University of Maine Orono Maine USA
| | - Anthony J. Richardson
- School of Mathematics and Physics University of Queensland St Lucia Queensland Australia
| | | | - Erin V. Satterthwaite
- California Sea Grant Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego La Jolla California USA
| | - Chloé Schmidt
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Manitoba Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
| | - Aaron J. Schwartz
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology University of Colorado Boulder Colorado USA
| | - Craig R. See
- Center for Ecosystem Science and Society Northern Arizona University Flagstaff Arizona USA
| | - Brendan D. Shea
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation Virginia Tech Blacksburg Virginia USA
| | - Rachel S. Smith
- Department of Environmental Sciences University of Virginia Charlottesville Virginia USA
| | - Eric R. Sokol
- Battelle, National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) Boulder Colorado USA
| | | | - Trisha Spanbauer
- Department of Environmental Sciences/Lake Erie Center University of Toledo Toledo Ohio USA
| | | | | | - Vitor Sudbrack
- Department of Ecology and Evolution University of Lausanne Lausanne Switzerland
| | - Jonathan D. Tonkin
- School of Biological Sciences University of Canterbury Christchurch New Zealand
| | - Ashley R. Townes
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
| | - Mireia Valle
- AZTI, Marine Research, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA) Sukarrieta Spain
| | - Jonathan A. Walter
- Center for Watershed Sciences University of California Davis California USA
| | - Kathryn I. Wheeler
- Department of Earth & Environment Boston University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - William R. Wieder
- Climate and Global Dynamics Laboratory, Terrestrial Sciences Section National Center for Atmospheric Research Boulder Colorado USA
| | - David R. Williams
- Sustainability Research Institute, School of Earth and Environment University of Leeds Leeds UK
| | - Marten Winter
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle‐Jena‐Leipzig Leipzig Germany
| | - Barbora Winterova
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science Masaryk University Brno Czech Republic
| | - Lucy C. Woodall
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences University of Washington Seattle Washington USA
| | - Adam S. Wymore
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment University of New Hampshire Durham New Hampshire USA
| | - Casey Youngflesh
- Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior Program Michigan State University East Lansing Michigan USA
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3
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Time for African youth in science. Acta Trop 2022; 226:106270. [PMID: 34896325 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Africa is a continent with impressive human and natural resources. Astonishingly, its contribution to the current science is very limited. Here, after addressing impeding issues in research in Africa, we highlight some facts that will certainly encourage youth to engage in science and innovation.
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Balandya E, Hyuha G, Mtaya M, Otieno J, Sunguya B, Frumence G, Muganyizi P, Lyamuya E, Urassa D, Kamuhabwa A, Pembe A. Advances in training of the specialized human resources for health in Tanzania: the case of Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:55. [PMID: 35078466 PMCID: PMC8790923 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03102-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing the number of specialized human resources for health is paramount to attainment of the United Nations sustainable development goals. Higher learning institutions in low-and middle-income countries must address this necessity. Here, we describe the 5-years trends in accreditation of the clinical and non-clinical postgraduate (PG) programmes, student admission and graduation at the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) in Tanzania, highlighting successes, challenges and opportunities for improvement. METHODS This was a retrospective longitudinal study describing trends in PG training at MUHAS between 2015 and 2016 and 2019-2020. Major interventions in the reporting period included university-wide short course training programme to faculty on curricula development and initiation of online application system. Data were collected through a review of secondary data from various university records and was analyzed descriptively. Primary outcomes were the number of accredited PG programmes, number of PG applicants as well as proportions of applicants selected, applicants registered (enrolled) and students graduated, with a focus on gender and internationalization (students who are not from Tanzania). RESULTS The number of PG programmes increased from 60 in 2015-2016 to 77 in 2019-2020, including programmes in rare fields such as cardiothoracic surgery, cardiothoracic anesthesia and critical care. The number of PG applications, selected applicants, registered applicants and PG students graduating at the university over the past five academic years had steadily increased by 79, 81, 50 and 79%, respectively. The average proportions of PG students who applied, were selected and registered as well as graduated at the university over the past five years by gender and internationalization has remained stably at 60% vs. 40% (male vs. female) and 90% vs. 10% (Tanzanian vs. international), respectively. In total, the university graduated 1348 specialized healthcare workers in the five years period, including 45 super-specialists in critical fields, through a steady increase from 200 graduates in 2015-2016 to 357 graduates in 2019-2020. Major challenges encountered include inadequate sponsorship, limited number of academic staff and limited physical infrastructure for teaching. CONCLUSION Despite challenges encountered, MUHAS has made significant advances over the past five years in training of specialized and super-specialized healthcare workforce by increasing the number of programmes, enrollment and graduates whilst maintaining a narrow gender gap and international relevance. MUHAS will continue to be the pillar in training of the specialized human resources for health and is thus poised to contribute to timely attainment of the health-related United Nations sustainable development goals in Tanzania and beyond, particularly within the Sub-Saharan Africa region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Balandya
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
| | - Gimbo Hyuha
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Matilda Mtaya
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Joseph Otieno
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Bruno Sunguya
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Gasto Frumence
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Projestine Muganyizi
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Eligius Lyamuya
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - David Urassa
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Appolinary Kamuhabwa
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Andrea Pembe
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science, P.O. Box 65001, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Porter GJ, Owens S, Breckons M. A systematic review of qualitative literature on antimicrobial stewardship in Sub-Saharan Africa. Glob Health Res Policy 2021; 6:31. [PMID: 34412692 PMCID: PMC8377884 DOI: 10.1186/s41256-021-00216-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotic resistance is a major problem in every region of the globe and Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is no exception. Several systematic reviews have addressed the prevalence of resistant organisms but few have examined the underlying causes in this region. This systematic review of qualitative literature aims to highlight barriers and facilitators to antimicrobial stewardship in SSA. METHODS A literature search of Embase and MEDLINE(R) was carried out. Studies were included if they were in English, conducted in SSA, and reported qualitative data on the barriers and facilitators of antimicrobial stewardship or on attitudes towards resistance promoting behaviours. Studies were screened with a simple critical appraisal tool. Secondary constructs were extracted and coded into concepts, which were then reviewed and grouped into themes in light of the complete dataset. RESULTS The literature search yielded 169 results, of which 14 studies from 11 countries were included in the final analysis. No studies were excluded as a result of the critical appraisal. Eight concepts emerged from initial coding, which were consolidated into five major themes: ineffective regulation, health system factors, clinical governance, patient factors and lack of resources. The ineffective regulation theme highlighted the balance between tightening drugstore regulation, reducing over-the-counter sale of antibiotics, and maintaining access to medicines for rural communities. Meanwhile, health system factors explored the tension between antimicrobial stewardship and the need of pharmacy workers to maintain profitable businesses. Additionally, a lack of resources, actions by patients and the day-to-day challenges of providing healthcare were shown to directly impede antimicrobial stewardship and exacerbate other factors which promote resistance. CONCLUSION Antibiotic resistance in SSA is a multi-faceted issue and while limited resources contribute to the problem they should be viewed in the context of other factors. We identify several contextual factors that affect resistance and stewardship that should be considered by policy makers when planning interventions. This literature base is also incomplete, with only 11 nations accounted for and many studies being confined to regions within countries, so more research is needed. Specifically, further studies on implementing stewardship interventions, successful or not, would be beneficial to inform future efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- George James Porter
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Stephen Owens
- Department of Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Great North Children's Hospital, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Matthew Breckons
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
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Liani ML, Nyamongo IK, Pulford J, Tolhurst R. Institutional-level drivers of gender-inequitable scientific career progression in sub-Saharan Africa. Health Res Policy Syst 2021; 19:117. [PMID: 34404432 PMCID: PMC8369615 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-021-00767-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study sought to determine how institutional environments, including values, policies, and their implementation, shape inequities in scientific career progression for women and men, and their disadvantages in relation to their multiple social identities in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The findings are drawn from a wider research study that was aimed at gaining an in-depth understanding of the barriers and enablers of gender-equitable scientific career progression for researchers in SSA. This was nested within the context of the Developing Excellence in Leadership, Training and Science in Africa (DELTAS Africa) programme-a health-based scientific research capacity-strengthening initiative. METHODS The study adopted an exploratory qualitative cross-sectional study design. In-depth interviews (IDIs) with trainees/research fellows at various career stages supported and/or affiliated to three purposively selected DELTAS Africa Research Consortia were the main method of data collection. In addition, key informant interviews (KIIs) with consortia research leaders/directors, co-investigators, and the consortia management team were also conducted to corroborate information gathered from the IDIs, and also to provide additional insights on the drivers of intersectional gender-inequitable career progression. In total, 58 IDIs (32 female and 26 male) and 20 KIIs (4 female and 16 male) were conducted. The interviews were carried out in English between May and December 2018. The data were analysed inductively based on emergent themes. RESULTS Three interrelated themes were identified: first, characterization of the institutional environment as highly complex and competitive with regard to advancement opportunities and funding structure; second, inequitable access to support systems within institutions; third, informal rules-everyday experiences of negative practices and culture at the workplace, characterized by negative stereotypical attitudes, gender biases, sexual harassment, and bullying and intimidation. CONCLUSIONS We contend that understanding and addressing the social power relations at the meso-institutional environment and macro-level contexts could benefit career progression of both female and male researchers by improving work culture and practices, resource allocation, and better rules and policies, thus fostering positive avenues for systemic and structural policy changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Millicent L Liani
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L35QA, United Kingdom.
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3BX, United Kingdom.
| | - Isaac K Nyamongo
- Division of Research and Innovation, The Cooperative University of Kenya, Karen, P.O. BOX 24814-00502, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Justin Pulford
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L35QA, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Tolhurst
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L35QA, United Kingdom
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Liani ML, Nyamongo IK, Pulford J, Tolhurst R. An intersectional gender analysis of familial and socio-cultural drivers of inequitable scientific career progression of researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa. Glob Health Res Policy 2021; 6:30. [PMID: 34404492 PMCID: PMC8367762 DOI: 10.1186/s41256-021-00213-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) suffers from a dearth of concrete information on the causes of women's under-representation in scientific research workforce particularly at higher levels compared with the wealth of information that exists in the global north. The goal of this study was to illuminate familial and socio-cultural drivers that contribute to intersectional gender inequities in scientific career progression in SSA to inform strategies that could promote career equity for African scientific researchers. METHODS This study was nested within the context of 'Developing Excellence in Leadership, Training and Science in Africa' (DELTAS Africa)-a health-based scientific research capacity strengthening initiative. It adopted an exploratory qualitative cross-sectional study design. In-depth interviews were conducted among 58 (32 Female and 26 Male) trainees/research fellows at various career stages, affiliated to three purposively selected African Research Consortia. The interviews were conducted between May and December 2018 in English. The data were analysed inductively based on emergent themes. RESULTS The study participants were nationals of thirteen SSA countries. More female than male participants had young children. Four themes were identified. They illustrate women's and men's characterisation of the normative career pathway and progression requirements which calls for significant 'time' commitments (theme 1), and how social power relations of gender within the family and wider society shapes their participation in scientific research activities (theme 2). This culminates in researchers'' differential experiences of navigating between the 'two different lives'-family and career, and the resultant implications for their career progression and personal well-being (theme 3). Women researchers made different and conscious trade-offs for navigating the 'two different lives' by utilising various metaphors such as the 'biological clock and career clock', the 'glass ball and rubber ball', and the concept of 'sacrifice' (theme 4). CONCLUSIONS This study is the first of its kind to demonstrate how intersectional gender analysis through use of qualitative research methods may provide novel insights into the hidden familial and socio-cultural drivers of gender inequitable scientific research career progression. It offers important policy and practice measures and approaches for fostering career equity for women and men scientists within research capacity strengthening initiatives in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Millicent L Liani
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK.
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK.
| | - Isaac K Nyamongo
- Division of Research and Innovation, The Cooperative University of Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Justin Pulford
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Rachel Tolhurst
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
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8
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Liani ML, Nyamongo IK, Pulford J, Tolhurst R. Enablers of gender equitable scientific career progression in Sub-Saharan Africa: Insights from the DELTAS Africa Initiative. AAS Open Res 2021. [DOI: 10.12688/aasopenres.13243.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This paper present findings on current strategies utilised within selected Developing Excellence in Leadership, Training and Science in Africa’ (DELTAS Africa) consortia to promote gender equitable scientific career progression for researchers, as well as participants’ recommendations for change. Findings are drawn from a wider research study nested within this health-based scientific research capacity strengthening initiative that was aimed at gaining an in-depth understanding of the barriers and enablers of gender equitable scientific career progression for researchers in Sub-Saharan Africa. Methods: We adopted an exploratory qualitative cross-sectional study design. The main method of data collection was in-depth interviews (IDIs) with trainees/research fellows at various career stages affiliated to three purposively selected DELTAS Africa Research Consortia. In addition, key informant interviews (KIIs) with consortia research leaders/directors, co-investigators, and management team were also conducted to corroborate information gathered from the IDIs, and to provide additional insights on the enabling factors/actions and policy processes that were currently in place or proposed to enhance gender equitable career progression. In total, fifty-eight IDIs (32 female and 26 male) and twenty KIIs (4 female and 16 male) were conducted. Interviews were carried out between May and December 2018 in English. Data were analysed inductively based on emergent themes, and aligned to the developed integrated conceptual framework. Results: Three overarching themes were identified. First: micro level efforts - individual coping mechanisms and familial level support. Second: Meso level efforts -existing enabling mechanisms at the institutional level. Third: proposed solutions for positive change towards enhancing gender equitable career progression at micro, meso and macro levels. Conclusions: These findings have implications for future research capacity strengthening programming, including DELTAS Africa II initiative (2021-2025); they provide valuable insights on potential strategies and actions aiming to narrow gender inequities in scientific career progression in the context of sub-Saharan African research institutions.
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9
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Imaging Africa: a strategic approach to optical microscopy training in Africa. Nat Methods 2021; 18:847-855. [PMID: 34354292 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-021-01227-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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10
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Maina MB, Ahmad U, Ibrahim HA, Hamidu SK, Nasr FE, Salihu AT, Abushouk AI, Abdurrazak M, Awadelkareem MA, Amin A, Imam A, Akinrinade ID, Yakubu AH, Azeez IA, Mohammed YG, Adamu AA, Ibrahim HB, Bukar AM, Yaro AU, Goni BW, Prieto-Godino LL, Baden T. Two decades of neuroscience publication trends in Africa. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3429. [PMID: 34103514 PMCID: PMC8187719 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23784-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroscience research in Africa remains sparse. Devising new policies to boost Africa's neuroscience landscape is imperative, but these must be based on accurate data on research outputs which is largely lacking. Such data must reflect the heterogeneity of research environments across the continent's 54 countries. Here, we analyse neuroscience publications affiliated with African institutions between 1996 and 2017. Of 12,326 PubMed indexed publications, 5,219 show clear evidence that the work was performed in Africa and led by African-based researchers - on average ~5 per country and year. From here, we extract information on journals and citations, funding, international coauthorships and techniques used. For reference, we also extract the same metrics from 220 randomly selected publications each from the UK, USA, Australia, Japan and Brazil. Our dataset provides insights into the current state of African neuroscience research in a global context.
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Affiliation(s)
- M B Maina
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK.
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, College of Medical Sciences, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Nigeria.
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK.
| | - U Ahmad
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Bauchi State University, PMB 65, Gadau, Nigeria
| | - H A Ibrahim
- College of Medicine, Misr University for Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - S K Hamidu
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Gombe State University, Gombe, Nigeria
| | - F E Nasr
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - A T Salihu
- Non-invasive Brain Stimulation and Neuroplasticity Laboratory, Department of Physiotherapy, School of Primary and Allied Healthcare, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Physiotherapy, Hasiya Bayero Paediatric Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - A I Abushouk
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - M Abdurrazak
- Sheka Primary Health Care Kumbotso, Kano, Nigeria
| | - M A Awadelkareem
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Al-Neelain University, Khartoum, Sudan
- UK Dementia Research Institute and Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Neuroscience Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - A Amin
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - A Imam
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - I D Akinrinade
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - A H Yakubu
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - I A Azeez
- Department of Neuroscience Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Y G Mohammed
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Gombe State University, Gombe, Nigeria
- Department of Biology, Neurobiology group, University of Konstanz, Baden Wurttemberg, Germany
| | - A A Adamu
- Department of Physiotherapy, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - H B Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal Medical Centre, Katsina, Nigeria
| | - A M Bukar
- Centre for Visual Computing, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - A U Yaro
- College of Medical Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | - B W Goni
- Department of Medicine, Yobe State University Teaching Hospital Damaturu PMB 1072, Damaturu, Yobe State, Nigeria
| | - L L Prieto-Godino
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK.
- Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.
| | - T Baden
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK.
- TReND in Africa (www.TReNDinAfrica.org), Brighton, UK.
- Institute of Ophthalmic Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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11
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12
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Making it to the PhD: Gender and student performance in sub-Saharan Africa. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241915. [PMID: 33315871 PMCID: PMC7735565 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Women’s underrepresentation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) impedes progress in solving Africa’s complex development problems. As in other regions, women’s participation in STEM drops progressively moving up the education and career ladder, with women currently constituting 30% of Africa’s STEM researchers. This study elucidates gender-based differences in PhD performance using new survey data from 227 alumni of STEM PhD programs in 17 African countries. We find that, compared to their male counterparts, sampled women had about one less paper accepted for publication during their doctoral studies and took about half a year longer to finish their PhD training. Negative binomial regression models provide insights on the observed differences in women’s and men’s PhD performance. Results indicate that the correlates of publication productivity and time to PhD completion are very similar for women and men, but some gender-based differences are observed. For publication output, we find that good supervision had a stronger impact for men than women; and getting married during the PhD reduced women’s publication productivity but increased that of men. Becoming a parent during the PhD training was a key reason that women took longer to complete the PhD, according to our results. Findings suggest that having a female supervisor, attending an institution with gender policies in place, and pursuing the PhD in a department where sexual harassment by faculty was perceived as uncommon were enabling factors for women’s timely completion of their doctoral studies. Two priority interventions emerge from this study: (1) family-friendly policies and facilities that are supportive of women’s roles as wives and mothers and (2) fostering broader linkages and networks for women in STEM, including ensuring mentoring and supervisory support that is tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
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13
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Osier FHA, Mwandumba HC, Gray CM. Turning Discoveries into Treatments: Immunology in Africa. Trends Immunol 2020; 41:1051-1053. [PMID: 33160840 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2020.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
An exemplar outcome of an immunology-based intervention is vaccine development; the current COVID-19 pandemic is a case in point. Can we build an immunology research ecosystem in Africa that nurtures discovery and enables translation? We see African immunologists as key agents of change and discuss obstacles and opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith H A Osier
- Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research-Coast, Kilifi, Kenya.
| | - Henry C Mwandumba
- Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Clive M Gray
- Division of Immunology, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine and Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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14
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Abstract
The human body is an ecosystem that is home to a complex array of microbes known as the microbiome or microbiota. This ecosystem plays an important role in human health, but as a result of recent lifestyle changes occurring around the planet, whole populations are seeing a major shift in their gut microbiota. Measures meant to kill or limit exposure to pathogenic microbes, such as antibiotics and sanitation, combined with other factors such as processed food, have had unintended consequences for the human microbial ecosystem, including changes that may be difficult to reverse. Microbiota alteration and the accompanying loss of certain functional attributes might result in the microbial communities of people living in industrialized societies being suboptimal for human health. As macroecologists, conservationists, and climate scientists race to document, understand, predict, and delay global changes in our wider environment, microbiota scientists may benefit by using analogous approaches to study and protect our intimate microbial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Sonnenburg
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Center for Human Microbiome Studies, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA. .,Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Erica D Sonnenburg
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Center for Human Microbiome Studies, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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15
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Khisa AM, Ngure P, Gitau E, Musasiah J, Kilonzo E, Otukpa E, Vicente-Crespo M, Kyobutungi C, Ezeh A, Fonn S. Gender responsive multidisciplinary doctoral training program: the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA) experience. Glob Health Action 2020; 12:1670002. [PMID: 31570070 PMCID: PMC6781179 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2019.1670002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Doctoral training has increasingly become the requirement for faculty in institutions of higher learning in Africa. Africa, however, still lacks sufficient capacity to conduct research, with just 1.4% of all published research authored by African researchers. Similarly, women in Sub-Saharan Africa only constitute 30% of the continent’s researchers, and correspondingly publish little research. Challenging these gendered inequities requires a gender responsive doctoral program that caters for women’s gender roles that likely affect their enrollment in, and completion of, doctoral programs. In this article, we describe a public and population health multidisciplinary doctoral training program – CARTA and its approach to supporting women. This has resulted in women’s enrollment in the program equaling men’s and similar throughput rates. CARTA has achieved this by meeting women’s practical needs around childbearing and childrearing and we argue that this has produced some outcomes that challenge gender norms, such as fathers being child minders in support of their wives and creating visible female role models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Khisa
- Research Capacity Strengthening, African Population and Health Research Center , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Peter Ngure
- Department of Applied and Technical Biology, Technical University of Kenya , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Evelyn Gitau
- Research Capacity Strengthening, African Population and Health Research Center , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Justus Musasiah
- Research Capacity Strengthening, African Population and Health Research Center , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Eunice Kilonzo
- Research Capacity Strengthening, African Population and Health Research Center , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Emmanuel Otukpa
- Research Capacity Strengthening, African Population and Health Research Center , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Marta Vicente-Crespo
- Research Capacity Strengthening, African Population and Health Research Center , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Catherine Kyobutungi
- Research Capacity Strengthening, African Population and Health Research Center , Nairobi , Kenya
| | - Alex Ezeh
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University, Philadelphia & School of Public Health, University of Witwatersrand , Johannesburg , South Africa
| | - Sharon Fonn
- School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand , Johannesburg , South Africa
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16
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Okeke IN. Extending the breadth of African laboratory medicine. Afr J Lab Med 2019; 8:1128. [PMID: 31850161 PMCID: PMC6909414 DOI: 10.4102/ajlm.v8i1.1128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Iruka N Okeke
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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17
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Vuong Q. The harsh world of publishing in emerging regions and implications for editors and publishers: The case of Vietnam. LEARNED PUBLISHING 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/leap.1255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Quan‐Hoang Vuong
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Social ResearchPhenikaa University Hanoi Vietnam
- The European Association of Science Editors – Vietnam Regional Chapter Hanoi Vietnam
- NAFOSTED Scientific Council on Basic Research in the Social Sciences and Humanities Hanoi Vietnam
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18
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Maina MB, Mohammed YG, Bukar AM, Ahmad U, Tijjani Salihu A, Ibrahim HA, Abdurrazak M, Hamidu SK, Yaro AU, Awadelkareem MA, Nasr FE, Baden T. African neuroscience on the global stage: Nigeria as a model. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 49:1544-1551. [PMID: 30758873 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Of the 572 neuroscience-related studies published in Nigerian from 1996 to 2017, <5% used state-of-the-art techniques, none used transgenic models, and only one study was published in a top-tier journal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Bukar Maina
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK.,College of Medical Sciences, Gombe State University, Gombe, Nigeria
| | - Yunusa Garba Mohammed
- College of Medical Sciences, Gombe State University, Gombe, Nigeria.,International Max Planck Research School, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Ali Maina Bukar
- Centre for Visual Computing, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - Umar Ahmad
- Medical Genetics Laboratory, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.,Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Bauchi State University, Bauchi, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | - Aisha Umar Yaro
- College of Medical Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria
| | | | - Fayza Eid Nasr
- Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Tom Baden
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
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19
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Yakubu A, Tindana P, Matimba A, Littler K, Munung NS, Madden E, Staunton C, De Vries J. Model framework for governance of genomic research and biobanking in Africa - a content description. AAS Open Res 2018; 1:13. [PMID: 30714023 PMCID: PMC6354903 DOI: 10.12688/aasopenres.12844.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic research and biobanking are expanding globally, with a promise to fast-track the research needed to improve approaches to disease treatment and prevention through scientific collaborations such as the Human Heredity and Health in Africa (H3Africa) initiative. Integral to this type of research is the availability of samples and data for research. The need for broad access brings along a host of ethical concerns, including those related to privacy and confidentiality, as well as fairness and equity in access and capacity to utilise these samples between scientists from the high income and low income countries. Addressing these concerns while promoting genomic research, especially in Africa, requires the implementation of a sound governance framework. In this paper, we describe the contents of a Framework for Best Practice for Genomics Research and biobanking in Africa that was developed, under the auspices of the H3Africa initiative. This framework is broad enough to be used and adapted by African countries to facilitate the development of country-specific guidelines and to help improve the conduct and governance of genomics research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aminu Yakubu
- Department of Health Planning, Research & Statistics, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Paulina Tindana
- Navrongo Health Research Centre, Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Ghana
| | - Alice Matimba
- Wellcome Genome Campus Advanced Courses and Scientific Conferences, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Ebony Madden
- Division of Genomic Medicine, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | | | - Jantina De Vries
- Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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20
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Yakubu A, Tindana P, Matimba A, Littler K, Munung NS, Madden E, Staunton C, De Vries J. Model framework for governance of genomic research and biobanking in Africa - a content description. AAS Open Res 2018; 1:13. [PMID: 30714023 DOI: 10.12688/aasopenres.12844.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic research and biobanking are expanding globally, with a promise to fast-track the research needed to improve approaches to disease treatment and prevention through scientific collaborations such as the Human Heredity and Health in Africa (H3Africa) initiative. Integral to this type of research is the availability of samples and data for research. The need for broad access brings along a host of ethical concerns, including those related to privacy and confidentiality, as well as fairness and equity in access and capacity to utilise these samples between scientists from the high income and low income countries. Addressing these concerns while promoting genomic research, especially in Africa, requires the implementation of a sound governance framework. In this paper, we describe the contents of a Framework for Best Practice for Genomics Research and biobanking in Africa that was developed, under the auspices of the H3Africa initiative. This framework is broad enough to be used and adapted by African countries to facilitate the development of country-specific guidelines and to help improve the conduct and governance of genomics research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aminu Yakubu
- Department of Health Planning, Research & Statistics, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Paulina Tindana
- Navrongo Health Research Centre, Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Ghana
| | - Alice Matimba
- Wellcome Genome Campus Advanced Courses and Scientific Conferences, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Ebony Madden
- Division of Genomic Medicine, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | | | - Jantina De Vries
- Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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21
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Cornetta K, Patel K, Wanjiku CM, Busakhala N. Equitable Access to Gene Therapy: A Call to Action for the American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy. Mol Ther 2018; 26:2715-2716. [PMID: 30454956 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Cornetta
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
| | - Kirtika Patel
- Department of Immunology, Moi University School of Medicine, Eldoret, Kenya
| | | | - Naftali Busakhala
- Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya; Moi University School of Medicine, Eldoret, Kenya
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22
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Balogun WG, Cobham AE, Amin A, Seeni A. Using invertebrate model organisms for neuroscience research and training: an opportunity for Africa. Metab Brain Dis 2018; 33:1431-1441. [PMID: 29797116 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-018-0250-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Africa is faced with an increasing underrepresentation of her research progress in many fields of science including neuroscience. This underrepresentation stems from the very low investments directed towards research by African governments as these are thought to be high-priced. Scientists and researchers within the continent are left to compete highly for the very limited research grants or choose to fund research from their personal purse. Therefore, presenting a need for all possible strategies to make science and research approaches more affordable in Africa. This paper presents one of such strategy, which advocates the use of invertebrate animal models for neuroscience research in place of the commonly used vertebrate models. Invertebrates are cheaper, more available and easy to handle options and their use is on the rise, even in the developed societies of the world. Here, we investigate the current state of invertebrate neuroscience research in Africa looking at countries and institutions conducting neuroscience research with invertebrates and their publication output. We discuss the factors which impede invertebrate neuroscience research in Africa like lack of research infrastructure and adequate expert scientists and conclude by suggesting solutions to these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wasiu Gbolahan Balogun
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 13200, Bertam, Penang, Malaysia.
| | - Ansa Emmanuel Cobham
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Abdulbasit Amin
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua. da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Azman Seeni
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 13200, Bertam, Penang, Malaysia
- Malaysian Institute of Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals, National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia, Bukit Gambir, 11700, Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
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Balogun WG, Cobham AE, Amin A, Seeni A. Advancing Neuroscience Research in Africa: Invertebrate Species to the Rescue. Neuroscience 2018; 374:323-325. [PMID: 29427653 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.01.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neuroscience research and training in many African countries are difficult due to funding and infrastructure deficit. This has resulted in few neuroscientists within Africa. However, invertebrates such as Drosophila and Caenorhabditis elegans could provide the perfect answer to these difficulties. These organisms are cheap, easy to handle and offer a comparable advantage over vertebrates in neuroscience research modeling because they have a simple nervous system and exhibit well-defined behaviors. Studies using invertebrates have helped to understand neurosciences and the complexes associated with it. If Africa wants to catch up with the rest of the world in neuroscience research, it needs to employ this innovative cost-effective approach in its research. To improve invertebrate neuroscience within the Africa continent, the authors advocated the establishment of invertebrate research centers either at regional or national level across Africa. Finally, there is also a need to provide public funding to consolidate the gains that have been made by not-for-profit international organizations over the years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wasiu Gbolahan Balogun
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 13200 Bertam, Penang, Malaysia.
| | - Ansa Emmanuel Cobham
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria; School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia.
| | - Abdulbasit Amin
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria; Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua. da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156 Oeiras, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Azman Seeni
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 13200 Bertam, Penang, Malaysia; Malaysian Institute of Pharmaceuticals and Nutraceuticals, National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia, Bukit Gambir, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
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Martín-Bermudo MD, Gebel L, Palacios IM. DrosAfrica: Building an African biomedical research community using Drosophila. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2017; 70:58-64. [PMID: 28860103 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.08.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The impact that research has on shaping the future of societies is perhaps as significant as never before. One of the problems for most regions in Africa is poor quality and quantity of research-based education, as well as low level of funding. Hence, African researchers produce only around one percent of the world's research. We believe that research with Drosophila melanogaster can contribute to changing that. As seen before in other places, Drosophila can be used as a powerful and cost-effective model system to scale-up and improve both academia and research output. The DrosAfrica project was founded to train and establish a connected community of researchers using Drosophila as a model system to investigate biomedical problems in Africa. Since founding, the project has trained eighty scientists from numerous African countries, and continues to grow. Here, we describe the DrosAfrica project, its conception and its mission. We also give detailed insights into DrosAfrica's approaches to achieve its aims, as well as future perspectives, and opportunities beyond Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- María D Martín-Bermudo
- Centro Andaluz de Biología del Desarrollo (CSIC-Univ. Pablo de Olavide), Sevilla, 41013, Spain.
| | - Luka Gebel
- Milner Therapeutics Institute, Capella Building - Biomedical Campus, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Isabel M Palacios
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK, and School of Biological and Chemical Sciences Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK.
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