Young African Policy Research Hub Takes Center Stage at Inaugural International Pandemic Sciences Conference at the University of Oxford
July 2023 – The Young African Policy Research Hub (YAPORH) made its mark on the global stage by actively participating in the first-ever International Pandemic Sciences Conference held at the prestigious University of Oxford. Judith Murungi, a Global Health Research Associate under the auspices of the International Pandemic Science Institute Oxford University, proudly represented Young African Policy Research Hub in person during the groundbreaking event.
About the Conference
Hosted by the esteemed Pandemic Sciences Institute at the University of Oxford from 10th to 11th July, 2023, the conference served as a platform dedicated to the urgent acceleration of discovery, creation, and equitable application of practical solutions to combat epidemic and pandemic threats on a global scale.
With the theme “Making the Exceptional Routine,” the International Pandemic Sciences Conference 2023 aimed to explore innovative ways to transform the exceptional efforts witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic into regular practices within the field of pandemic sciences.
The International Pandemic Sciences Conference 2023 brought together prominent scientists, policymakers, public health experts, and representatives from various sectors including Young African Policy Research Network, to deliberate on actionable strategies that can transform exceptional responses into routine practices. By learning from the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic, the conference participants sought to create a sustainable framework for pandemic preparedness and response.
The event also underscored the need for increased investment in research and development, especially in regions like Africa, which face unique challenges in healthcare infrastructure and access to medical innovations.
Young African Policy Research Hub Representative at the Conference
YAPORH’s presence at the conference was a testament to the growing recognition of the crucial roles of the Young African Researchers in shaping the global health landscape. Representing the continent’s emerging young leaders in policy research and advocacy, Judith Murungi expressed the organization’s commitment to fostering multidisciplinary and multisectoral collaborations in pandemic research. She emphasized that YAPORH is dedicated to ensuring equitable access to life-saving solutions, particularly for vulnerable communities across Africa. Her research work during the conference, was was on pandemic-related issue which attracted commendation from the participants.
At the International Pandemic Sciences Conference 2023, the discussions revolved around four main topics, Real-world intervention, Pathogen biology and new threats, Ethics, social science and policy and Epidemiology, data and analytics. Each playing a crucial role in shaping the world’s response to pandemics. During the conference, Judith Murungi, representing the Young African Policy Research Hub (YAPORH), delivered a presentation that focused on the critical intersection of ethics, social science, and policy in pandemic management. Her insights and analysis shed light on the importance of incorporating ethical considerations into public health policies, understanding the social dynamics that influence community responses during pandemics, and devising effective policies to mitigate the impact of future outbreaks.
As Judith Murungi continues to champion global health law and policy, her participation in the International Pandemic Sciences Conference 2023 at the University of Oxford takes on even greater significance. Through her representation of YAPORH at this esteemed event, Judith showcased Africa’s potential in shaping global health initiatives and strengthening international partnerships to tackle pandemics effectively.
Appreciation to the Pandemic Sciences Institute of the University of Oxford
During the International Pandemic Sciences Conference 2023, the Young African Policy Research Hub (YAPORH) expressed profound gratitude to the University of Oxford for the invaluable opportunity to participate in such a prestigious event. YAPORH acknowledged that being a part of this global gathering was a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of Africa’s role in shaping the future of pandemic sciences and global health.
In a statement delivered by Judith Murungi, YAPORH’s Global Health Research Associate, the organization extended its appreciation to the Pandemic Sciences Institute at the University of Oxford for hosting an exceptional conference that brought together experts and stakeholders from around the world. YAPORH emphasized that this experience has not only enriched its understanding of pandemic research but has also provided a platform for meaningful engagement and collaboration with international peers.
Through joint efforts and knowledge exchange, YAPORH aims to enhance Africa’s resilience to future health crises while promoting inclusivity and equitable access to healthcare solutions for all its communities. By investing in the next generation of African researchers and policy professionals, YAPORH aspires to play an integral role in shaping health policies that reflect the unique needs and aspirations of the continent.
As the conference concluded, Judith Murungi, representative of YAPORH, left Oxford with a sense of renewed purpose and strengthened resolve to fulfill YAPORH’s mission of advocating evidence-based policy research and contributing to a healthier, safer, and more prosperous Africa. With the support of esteemed institutions like the University of Oxford, YAPORH is poised to make a lasting impact in the field of pandemic sciences and policy development, paving the way for a brighter future for the continent and the world.
About Judith Murungi
Judith Murungi is a Global Health Research Associate of the Young African Policy Research Hub. She is a passionate and dedicated advocate for reshaping the global health system through well-informed health policies and research. As a Global Health Research Associate of the Young African Policy Research Hub (YAPORH), Judith’s focus revolves around policy and research matters concerning public health in Africa. Her commitment lies in generating and promoting research that strengthens public health interventions and drives sustainable health solutions across the continent.
She holds a Master of Laws Degree from the prestigious University of Nairobi, and her academic achievements underscore her expertise in the legal aspects of global health. Additionally, she has expanded her knowledge by completing a course on International Human Rights from Florida State University and the International Bar Association. As an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a legal researcher, Judith brings a unique perspective to the intersection of law and public health.
Throughout her career, Judith has collaborated with renowned organizations, each contributing to her diverse experience in the field of global health. Her involvement with the Centre for Justice Law and Society (CJLS) in India, The O’Neill Institution for National and Global Health Law in Washington DC, and Data Science for Health Discovery and Innovation in Africa (DSI) has enriched her understanding of international health issues and global health law.
Notably, Judith Murungi has been an instrumental Research Associate for International Human Rights and Global Health Law with YAPORH, further highlighting her commitment to making a difference in the realm of global health policy.
With her expertise and dedication, Judith Murungi serves as a beacon of hope for the future of global health policy, and her contributions are set to shape a healthier, more resilient, and equitable world for generations to come.
Commitment of the Young African Policy Research Hub to building the capacity of Young Africans as future poliy leaders and researchers.
YAPORH reiterated its unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of young researchers and policy professionals in Africa. The organization expressed its dedication to building capacity and fostering the necessary skills to tackle complex health challenges on the continent and beyond. YAPORH reaffirmed its vision of empowering young Africans with the knowledge and tools needed to actively contribute to evidence-based policymaking, which is critical in addressing not only pandemics but a range of pressing societal issues.
