July 16, 2026 by Chinyere Okoroafor
Scientists call for shift in training to strengthen Africa’s health research
Scientists have called for a shift in how Africa prepares its next generation of researchers, arguing that laboratory expertise alone is no longer sufficient to address the continent’s growing public health challenges, including malaria.
Ahead of World Youth Skills Day, young researchers with Target Malaria Uganda said effective scientific research now requires communication, leadership, collaboration and community engagement alongside technical competence.
Speaking from the Ugandan Virus Research Institute in Kampala, the scientists said researchers must increasingly work with communities, policymakers and international partners to ensure scientific innovations translate into practical solutions for Africa’s health challenges.
Laboratory scientist with Target Malaria Uganda, Ashley Birungi, said the traditional image of scientists working in isolation no longer reflects the realities of modern scientific research.
“Science is very collaborative. People often imagine scientists working alone in laboratories, but today’s science involves teamwork, communication, engagement with communities, and learning from experts across different fields,” Birungi said.
She noted that researchers are expected to contribute not only through scientific discoveries but also by building public trust and working across disciplines to solve complex health problems.
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Statistics and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Officer with the organisation, Rita Mwima, identified science communication as one of the most important skills young researchers must acquire.
“The one skill people don’t expect us to have is explaining deep science simply, so even a layperson can follow it and care about the work,” she said.
“I’m intentional about being a scientist who makes science easy to understand.”
Mwima explained that simplifying scientific concepts has become increasingly important as researchers engage communities and multiple stakeholders in programmes targeting diseases such as malaria.
She added that working with experienced researchers had also strengthened her confidence to contribute ideas and participate actively in scientific collaborations.
Birungi also said the discipline and attention to detail required in laboratory work have improved her problem-solving abilities beyond scientific research.
Similarly, Insectary Assistant Aisha Nakitende Nanfuka urged young Africans to embrace science with curiosity and determination, saying the continent needs innovative researchers capable of developing home-grown solutions to local challenges.
“Africa needs passionate, innovative young scientists to develop solutions to the challenges facing our communities,” Nanfuka said.
The scientists said the future of African research lies in building professionals who can combine technical excellence with leadership, effective communication and public engagement.
They argued that as African countries continue to strengthen scientific research capacity, researchers must be equipped to move confidently between laboratories, communities and policymaking spaces while contributing to global scientific knowledge.
The call comes as efforts intensify across the continent to strengthen research institutions and develop locally driven solutions to persistent public health challenges, including malaria, which continues to claim hundreds of thousands of lives globally each year, with Africa accounting for the overwhelming majority of cases and deaths.
Target Malaria, a non-profit international research consortium, is developing genetic technologies aimed at reducing malaria transmission and says it is investing in training young African scientists to lead future research and innovation on the continent.
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