Page 77 - SAMRC Annual Report 2023-24

PERFORMANCE INFORMATION

(1) Participation in several World TB Day community
events hosted by the Western Cape Department of
Health in Saldanha Bay, and local clinics including
Kraaifontein Community Health Centre, Bloekombos
and Phola Park Clinic, serving as a mass TB screening
drive and creating disease awareness. (2) The
ArcelorMittal Foundation Saldanha Science Centre
West Coast Careers Expo, hosted in collaboration
with various organisations, aimed at promoting
career opportunities and science education. (3) The
Biomedical Research Institute Public Open Day and
#MatiesBCAI23 Breast Cancer Awareness Initiative
hosted in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine
and Health Sciences, focused on showcasing
biomedical research, creating awareness and
engaging with the public. (4) Participation in the Dr Lucinda Baatjies' promotion to
Eskom Expo for Young Scientists Cape Town Regional Senior Scientist.
Fair 2023, emphasising the Centre's commitment
to fostering young scientific talent in the region,
and (5) Presenting the Generation Science (GenS)
programme in collaboration with the SAMRC for
South African youth (Grade 10-12) from previously
disadvantaged schools. This initiative provided an
interactive job shadow programme, offering a first-
hand experience of life as a scientist.

In celebration of 30 years of
democracy in South Africa

As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy,
the SAMRC CTR proudly reaffirms its unwavering
commitment to conducting world-class TB research.
The Centre's dedication lies in generating knowledge
that can be translated into new tests, diagnostics, Appointment of Prof. Desiree Petersen
and vaccines, poised to have a transformative as Associate Professor.
impact on health policies. By harnessing the power
of innovative research, we aim to drive actual
change that will ultimately benefit our societies. In
honouring this milestone, we pledge to persist in our
pursuit of breakthroughs, pushing the boundaries of
scientific understanding to combat the prevalence
of tuberculosis, a disease that has long plagued our
nation. Through our sustained efforts, we aspire to
contribute to the advancement of essential health
policies, ensuring that our research resonates
throughout our communities, uplifts the broader
society, and aids in the universal fight against TB.

As we reflect on the strides made over the past three
decades, we are resolute in our mission to elevate
the global standard of TB care, and we remain Prof Vuyo Mavumengwana appointed as
fervently committed to pioneering research that will Associate Professor.
echo through the annals of healthcare history.

SAMRC ANNUAL REPOR T 2023-24 75