Health sciences research encompasses basic, clinical, and applied science on human health and well-being, including the factors, prevention, detection, treatment, and management of diseases.
Historically, most health sciences research has been conducted in the Global North. However, there is a growing global interest in Africa’s potential for hosting and conducting clinical trials. In recent years, several international organisations, including the African Union, WHO, and the World Bank, have advocated for increased political and economic investment in health sciences research across Africa.
From a developmental perspective, investing in health sciences research in Africa is crucial for two key reasons:
- Strategic Health Investments. Promoting a strong health science industry can significantly contribute to global development efforts. In 1990, the Commission on Health Research and Development highlighted that strengthening research capacity in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is ‘one of the most powerful, cost-effective and sustainable means of advancing health and development’.
- Health, Social Welfare, and Poverty Reduction. Health sciences research can contribute to significant improvements in health and social welfare, and help reduce poverty by applying research findings domestically. The 2013 World Health Report emphasised that all nations should be both producers, users, and consumers of health sciences research.
Despite significant advancements in health sciences research over the past three decades, only a small fraction of global health research focuses on diseases which primarily affect LMICs. Many LMICs still lack the capacity to develop their own evidence base to inform policy and improve public health. The clinical research sector has been rapid expansion, with increasingly complex protocols and an increase in the number of regulations, creating a demand for a more qualified workforce within the clinical research industry.
Numerous studies indicate a strong need to strengthen clinical research capacity and invest in staff training globally across the board, particularly in Western countries as well as in LMICs. Improving the quality, impact, and efficiency of clinical research through training and education is crucial. The Pharmalys Academy of Clinical research Excellence (PACE) apprenticeship programme was established to meet this need by developing well-trained clinical research professionals.
The PACE apprenticeship programme offers a unique curriculum developed in collaboration with clinical research experts. It is designed to elevate skills, knowledge, and practical experience in the clinical research field. The programme is 100% digital and live, conducted in English, and requires learners to dedicate one week per month for twelve consecutive months, enabling them to balance their studies with full-time employment. Read more: https://pace-cr.com/pace-live-the-learning-experience/#apprenticeship
We encourage organisations that recognise PACE as a valuable resource for nurturing and developing the growth and expertise of their clinical research teams to consider sponsoring their employees for this training programme. Read more: https://pace-cr.com/corporate-partnerships/
We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with you. Contact us now! https://pace-cr.com/contact/