Challenges and Opportunities for Research in Africa

The workshop aims to promote debate and exchange of views on the challenges and opportunities of carrying out research in Africa and in collaboration with Africa. Two fellows awarded by the Women for Africa Foundation will tell their stories about their research experience in Africa. Cristina Pujades will explain her involvement in training activities in Kenia in collaboration with “TReND in Africa” (Teaching and Research in (Neuro)science for Development in Africa), a non-profit organization run entirely by volunteer scientists at universities worldwide. Marcelo Gutierrez from Novartis will present the Next Generation Scientist Programme and the contribution of their fellows upon return to their home institutions in Africa. María Teresa Fernández de la Vega will describe key activities at the Women for Africa Foundation to support and increase the scientific and technological capacities of African women. Afterwards, the moderator will trigger discussion among the speakers and the public. Research in Africa is challenging for several historical, political, economic and cultural reasons but it also offers unprecedented opportunities. We want to know more about it from actors who are directly involved in Africa research and training, and explore new ways of collaboration and support.

Speakers

• Elizabeth Balyejusa Kizito, Department of Agricultural Sciences, Uganda Christian University
• Elizabeth Kaase-Bwanga, Lecturer at Makerere University, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, School of Women and Gender Studies, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
• Cristina Pujades, Department Experimental Sciences and Health, University Pompeu Fabra
• Marcelo Gutierrez, Head, Global Scientific Development, Global Health Office at Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research
• María Teresa Fernández de la Vega, President of Women for Africa Foundation

Moderator

• Juan Valcárcel, Coordinator of the Gene Regulation, Stem Cells and Cancer Programme, CRG

Organizer

• Michela Bertero, Head of International and Scientific Affairs, CRG