{"id":17143,"date":"2025-07-21T11:59:20","date_gmt":"2025-07-21T09:59:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=17143"},"modified":"2026-03-12T10:13:14","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T08:13:14","slug":"post-covid-progress","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/post-covid-progress\/","title":{"rendered":"Post-Covid Progress: SA Builds Skills to Tackle Future Health Crises"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>South Africa is not hiding from the lessons of Covid-19. Instead, the nation is turning crisis into opportunity. By combining training, technology, and teamwork, South Africa aims to lead Africa\u2019s fight against infectious diseases. Every sector from health to science to government now plays a part in this national effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>ALSO READ: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/the-impact-of-covid-19-on-gambling-in-gauteng-recovery-and-industry-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Impact of COVID-19 on Gambling in Gauteng: Recovery and Industry Trends<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"a-bold-new-chapter-in-pandemic-preparedness\">A Bold New Chapter in Pandemic Preparedness<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThe Covid-19 pandemic taught us that we needed to do more to build skills in clinical and molecular testing to improve the resilience of our health system against the diseases of today and tomorrow,\u201d says Professor Ntobeko Ntusi, President and CEO of the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC). This statement captures the urgency behind South Africa\u2019s new action plan. In fact, in just a few years, the country has launched major initiatives to boost its pandemic response. For instance, the official opening of the Centre for Advanced Training and Innovative Research (CATIR) in Pretoria marks a key step forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-4092614618\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"building-skills-for-the-next-generation\">Building Skills for the Next Generation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>CATIR, a partnership between Thermo Fisher Scientific, the SAMRC, and the Department of Science and Innovation, will train scientists in advanced molecular science and laboratory management. \u201cThe centre will bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application, equipping future scientists with the skills to lead research and healthcare advancements relevant to local needs,\u201d explains Deputy Minister of Science and Innovation, Ms Nomalungelo Gina. The first group of 20 students starts training this year. By 2026, the centre aims to train 160 students every year in five-week courses. This rapid upskilling is vital for South Africa\u2019s health security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"investing-in-people-pays-off\">Investing in People Pays Off<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>South Africa now understands that skilled scientists and health workers are its best defense. Therefore, the government and partners invest heavily in education and hands-on training. \u201cThe opening of this important new educational facility is a landmark moment in our journey to achieving this important goal,\u201d adds Professor Ntusi. These efforts ensure that South Africa has enough experts to handle future outbreaks. Moreover, local training means less reliance on foreign support. This is critical for timely, effective responses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1178104320\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"technology-and-innovation-take-centre-stage\">Technology and Innovation Take Centre Stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Technology is another cornerstone of South Africa\u2019s progress. Modern labs and digital tools now help track disease spread and speed up testing. For example, CATIR uses cutting-edge equipment and teaching methods. As a result, students can practice real-world lab skills. \u201cThe centre reflects the SAMRC\u2019s belief in the value of investing in the infrastructure and expertise that will help our country address local gaps in critical areas of science,\u201d says Professor Ntusi. This investment helps South Africa stay ahead of new health threats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"from-research-to-real-world-impact\">From Research to Real-World Impact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>South Africa\u2019s research is not just for academic papers. It drives real change in clinics and communities. For instance, new training programs teach scientists to set up mobile labs and run rapid tests. These skills proved vital during Covid-19, and they will be even more important in the future. In addition, research now focuses on diseases specific to South Africa and Africa. This ensures that solutions fit local needs and are ready for use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1487627612\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"collaboration-is-key-to-success\">Collaboration Is Key to Success<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>No single group can fight a pandemic alone. As a result, South Africa brings together government, universities, private companies, and global partners. The CATIR project is a perfect example Thermo Fisher, SAMRC, and the government all work as one team. Similarly, other projects connect health workers, veterinarians, and environmental experts. This teamwork makes surveillance stronger and responses faster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"community-health-workers-gain-new-tools\">Community Health Workers Gain New Tools<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>South Africa\u2019s health system reaches even remote areas, thanks to trained community workers. These men and women are the eyes and ears of the health network. Now, with better training, they can spot outbreaks early and report them quickly. Furthermore, digital tools let them share information in real time. This<a href=\"https:\/\/www.dsti.gov.za\/index.php\/media-room\/media-room-speeches\/minister\/4518-minister-nzimande-emphasises-the-centrality-of-science-and-innovation-for-the-development-of-pandemic-preparedness-capacity-in-south-africa-and-africa-31-january-2025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> early<\/a> warning system is vital for stopping diseases before they spread.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-884594512\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"the-role-of-leadership-and-policy\">The Role of Leadership and Policy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Leadership at the highest levels shapes South Africa\u2019s pandemic response. The government supports research and training with clear policies and funding. For instance, the National Department of Health works closely with science and education leaders. This makes sure that new skills and technologies reach those who need them most. In addition, South Africa pushes for fair access to medicines and vaccines at global meetings. This advocacy helps protect not just South Africans, but people across Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>CHECK OUT: <a href=\"https:\/\/gauteng.news\/2025\/06\/13\/new-covid-variant-vaccine-access\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New COVID Variant Sparks Concerns Over Vaccine Access in South Africa as Global Spread Continues<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"looking-ahead-a-resilient-future\">A Resilient Future<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>South Africa\u2019s journey since Covid-19 shows what is possible with focus and unity. Today, more young scientists are training in world-class labs. Health workers have better tools and information. Communities are more aware and ready to act. As Professor Ntusi puts it, this is truly \u201ca landmark moment\u201d for the nation\u2019s health. No one can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.za\/news\/media-advisories\/health-hosts-4th-g20-health-working-group-meeting-10-13-jun-05-jun-2025\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">predict<\/a> the next pandemic. But South Africa is now much better prepared to face it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1885478808\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conclusion-building-on-progress\">Building on Progress<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>South Africa\u2019s post-Covid story is one of transformation. The country invests in people, technology, and teamwork. As a result, it stands as a model for pandemic readiness in Africa. \u201cWe are building the skills and systems needed to tackle future health crises,\u201d says Professor Ntusi. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.citizen.co.za\/news\/good-news-in-south-africas-fight-against-future-pandemics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The goal is clear<\/a>: protect South Africans today, and set an example for the world tomorrow. This is the legacy of Covid-19 a healthier, stronger, and more resilient nation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Covid-19 pandemic showed South Africa\u2019s need for a stronger health workforce. As a result, the country launched the Centre for Advanced Training and Innovative Research (CATIR) in Pretoria. This facility trains the next generation in advanced molecular science and lab management.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":16,"featured_media":17199,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"The Covid-19 pandemic showed South Africa\u2019s need for a stronger health workforce. As a result, the country launched the Centre for Advanced Training and Innovative Research (CATIR) in Pretoria. This facility trains the next generation in advanced molecular science and lab management.","footnotes":""},"categories":[47],"tags":[3028,1392,341,3073],"class_list":{"0":"post-17143","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-news","8":"tag-covid-19","9":"tag-health","10":"tag-south-africa","11":"tag-technology"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17143","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/16"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17143"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17143\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17154,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17143\/revisions\/17154"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17199"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17143"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17143"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17143"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}