On 10 October, UP hosted the Spanish-South African Universities Symposium on Global Health, an event that united experts from various fields to address pressing global health challenges. Held at the Faculty of Health Sciences, the symposium emphasised interdisciplinary collaboration and cross-cultural partnerships in advancing health research.
Speakers from UP and four Spanish universities shared insights on diverse topics. Prof. Llewellyn Padayachy, head of neurosurgery at UP, discussed brain tumours and translational neuroscience, while Dr Rafael Molina of Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona highlighted the One Health approach, which focuses on the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Preventative healthcare was covered by Prof. Nenene Qekwana, the head of Paraclinical Sciences at UP, where she stressed the importance of holistic health strategies.
The symposium also explored key themes like health system strengthening and research on communicable and non-communicable diseases. Researchers from Spain and UP presented on how AI and engineering could contribute to healthcare innovation.
In an exclusive interview with PDBY, programme director Dr Emmanuel Matsebatlela reflected on the significance of the symposium. “Bringing together four Spanish universities with UP fosters cross-cultural and interdisciplinary collaborations that are vital for solving global health problems.” He emphasised how the One Health framework encourages a broader understanding of the environmental and health impacts on humanity.
Prof. Tivani Mashamba-Thompson, deputy dean of Research and Postgraduate Studies at UP’s Faculty of Health Sciences, shared her excitement about the event. She said, “The highlight for me is bringing together researchers from different fields, AI, engineering, veterinary sciences, all working towards a common goal: improving global health.” She also looked forward to showcasing UP’s cutting-edge facilities during the tour, particularly the state-of-the-art simulation labs and the NuMeRI nuclear medicine facility.
Spanish ambassador HE Raimundo Robredo Rubio made closing remarks that highlighted the event’s success in fostering international academic collaboration. The symposium laid the groundwork for future joint research efforts aimed at addressing the world’s most pressing health issues.
