Impact
Through its Division of Research Capacity Development (RCD), the SAMRC continues to support the long-term sustainability of health research in South Africa. Through RCDs support programmes and platforms, the SAMRC contributes to developing a generation of young scientists to help respond to the disease burden and pandemics such as COVID-19.The COVID-19 pandemic has reminded the entire world of the high social value of medical and public health research, and the importance of investing in capacity development to provide better solutions to various health problems.
Over the years, the RCD has provided a platform for many emerging researchers in different areas of health research and institutions across the country to develop their research skills and showcase their talent. In just the last five years, the Division has supported over 300 PhD candidates (including a few MScs) – 60% African black, 12% Coloured and 10% Indian which is a significant contribution to research transformation.
Overall, 73% of the beneficiaries are female – this is in line with the SAMRC’s commitment to the advancement of women scientists in order to bring a gender-edge to science and research.
In 2020 alone, the SAMRC, through its Division of RCD, is investing about R40 million to ensure that young scientists who wish to undertake their PhD studies, receive support through scholarships to do so. New beneficiaries will soon be joining an exciting and vibrant 2020 family of more than 60 young scientists who are already enjoying prestigious support from the RCD towards completion of their PhDs.
SAMRC President and CEO, Prof Glenda Gray, reiterated the message of building our human capital in health care. “The SAMRC is invested in developing the limited critical mass of medical and health scientists and supporting our next generation across various health professions,” said Gray.