The recent Immuno-Zambia 2.0 course, held in Lusaka, Zambia, brought together 65 participants and leaders in the field of immunology to explore ‘New Advances in the Immunology of Infectious Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa.’
Co-organised by the Immunological Societies of Zambia and Malawi and funded by the Africa Health Research Institute’s Centre of Excellence for Spatial Omics Research in Africa (CESORA), SANTHE, IAVI, and the Ragon Institute – the course offered postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows a unique opportunity to deepen their immunology expertise and connect with potential mentors.
Over three days, participants explored the latest advances in HIV prevention and cure research, respiratory diseases, tuberculosis, and innovations in spatial omics and virology. The workshop featured sessions led by distinguished speakers, including Prof Thumbi Ndung’u (AHRI director for basic & translational science), Dr Bruce Walker (executive director of Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard), Dr Alex Shalek (director of the Institute for Medical Engineering & Science at MIT), and Dr Daniel Lingwood (faculty at the Ragon Institute). These experts offered valuable insights on vaccine design, omics research, and infectious disease immunology. Additionally, CESORA leaders at AHRI, Prof Zaza Ndhlovu and Dr Bongiwe Mahlobo, shared significant advancements in tissue biology and multi-omics, highlighting how new technologies are reshaping scientific approaches across low- and middle-income countries.
The event concluded with a closing ceremony and awards presentation, recognising outstanding contributions. Congratulations to Uvedhna Padia, an AHRI masters student, who won the award for best oral presentation.
“The Immuno-Zambia 2.0 course has provided an invaluable opportunity for emerging scientists across Africa to engage with groundbreaking advancements in immunology,” said Professor Ndhlovu. “As we navigate complex challenges in infectious diseases, particularly in resource-limited settings, building local capacity and fostering collaboration remain essential. It is inspiring to see the innovative research presented here, which underscores the transformative potential of African science to address global public health priorities.”