Matlagolo Mosa Moshabela is a South African medical doctor, academic, and researcher specializing in public health and primary health care. He is recognized for his contributions to health systems research, particularly in the areas of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and COVID-19. He has held key academic administrative roles and began his appointment as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town on 1 August 2024. [2] [3]
Mosa Moshabela was born and raised in South Africa. He pursued his medical degree at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where he developed a strong interest in public health and primary care. Following his undergraduate studies, Moshabela completed a training in Family Medicine from MEDUNSA and subsequently earned a PhD in Public Health from the University of the Witwatersrand. He obtained a master's degree in Demography and Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. [4] [5]
Moshabela has held various academic positions throughout his career. This includes being Dean [6] of the School of Nursing and Public Health at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and subsequently Deputy Vice-Chancellor for research and Innovation. His academic work is characterized by a commitment to improving health care delivery and addressing the social determinants of health, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. [7]
Mosa Moshabela's research spans several critical areas in public health, including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and health care delivery in resource-limited settings. He has led and participated in numerous research projects aimed at enhancing the understanding and management of these diseases. His work often involves interdisciplinary approaches, combining insights from medicine, public health, and social sciences. [8]
Moshabela has published in peer-reviewed journals and has presented his research findings at various international conferences. His research has significantly influenced health policies and practices in South Africa and other parts of Africa. [9]
In addition to his academic and research roles, Moshabela is actively involved in health advocacy. He works closely with various governmental and non-governmental organizations to improve health care access and quality. His leadership extends to several professional associations and health committees, where he contributes to shaping health policy and practice. He is the chair person of the National Research Foundation Board. [10] [11] He is a member of the Academy of Science of South Africa. [12]
Moshabela has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to public health and medical research. These accolades highlight his impact on improving health outcomes and his dedication to advancing health equity. [13] [14]
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a public land-grant research university in San Francisco, California. It is part of the University of California system and is dedicated entirely to health science and life science. It conducts research and teaching in medical and biological sciences.
The University of Cape Town (UCT) is a public research university in Cape Town, South Africa. Established in 1829 as the South African College, it was granted full university status in 1918, making it the oldest university in South Africa and the oldest university in Sub-Saharan Africa in continuous operation.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is a university with five campuses in the province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. It was formed on 1 January 2004 after the merger between the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville.
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Salim S. Abdool Karim, MBChB, MMed, MS(Epi), FFPHM, FFPath (Virol), DipData, PhD, DSc(hc), FRS is a South African public health physician, epidemiologist and virologist who has played a leading role in the AIDS and COVID-19 pandemic. His scientific contributions have impacted the landscape of HIV prevention and treatment, saving thousands of lives.
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