Page 133 - SAMRC Annual Report 2023-24

PERFORMANCE INFORMATION

to experience the laboratory environment and collaborative efforts and dedication to research, we
to perform molecular experiments. In addition, have made significant contributions to disentangling
several GBD-affiliated postgraduate students the complexities of neuropsychiatric disorders,
participated as judges in the Eskom Expo for particularly in African individuals. However, we
Young Scientists Cape Town Regional Expo. Prof need to be cognisant of the current challenges,
Hemmings was invited to present to a cohort of including disparities in access to mental health
IEB teachers on the Gut Microbiome and Mental services, shortage of mental health professionals,
Health. The audience comprised approximately and ongoing stigma surrounding mental illness.
30-40 IEB Life Sciences teachers. Prof Hemmings Continued research is needed to address these
was also invited as a key speaker at the launch of gaps and ensure equitable mental health support
Enbiosis, a new product that integrates gut health for all South Africans.
into everyday health. The audience here comprised
many healthcare practitioners, including dieticians,
psychologists, GPs, as well as individuals in the
Medical Aid industry. This has resulted in a potential
collaboration between Rx Group of Companies and
Profs Hemmings and Seedat. Through the Wellcome
Trust, Galenos project (https://www.galenos.org.
uk/) – a paradigm (and practice) shift toward the
generation of translational mental health evidence
to drive innovation in diagnosis and treatment –
we are involved in an extensive global network of
stakeholders to co-produce research, including with Laboratory manager, Ms Kayleigh Filton,
people with lived experience.
preparing the Hamilton Starlet liquid
In celebration of 30 years of handler for use.
democracy in South Africa

Over the past 30 years of democracy in South Africa,
mental health research has seen notable
advancements with increased recognition of the
importance of addressing mental health issues.
Societal attitudes towards mental health have
also shifted, resulting in increased awareness and
reduced stigma surrounding mental illness. Research
initiatives in mental health have also improved, with
increased investment by government and academic
institutions in mental health research over the years,
including investment in research integrating mental
health and other non-communicable disease. This
investment has led to a deeper understanding of
the prevalence, risk factors, and impacts of mental
health disorders within South African communities.

It has been encouraging to witness the growing
emphasis on community-based mental health
interventions tailored to the unique socio-cultural
context of South Africa and the inclusion of people
with lived experience in all stages of the research life
cycle. These programmes aim to improve access to An Msc Neuroscience student Ms van Royen
mental health services, particularly in underserved viewing an agarose gel and preparing
and marginalised populations. Whilst there is still samples in the biosafety cabinet.
much work to be done, we believe that, through

SAMRC ANNUAL REPOR T 2023-24 131