Written by Welile Dube
Three ambitious students from the Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics (MBHG) embarked on a transformative academic journey at the Education and Research-Oriented Training in Health Sciences (EARTHS) 2024 Summer School. The summer school was hosted by Prof. Amena Ahmad of Hamburg University of Applied Sciences at the Faculty of Life Sciences. This intensive program brought together aspiring health researchers to the vibrant city of Hamburg, Germany.
The summer school offered a comprehensive learning experience with a rich tapestry of essential research skills and knowledge in diverse subject areas, which included biostatistics, presentation skills, conducting epidemiological studies, public health research, scientific publication writing, and grant applications. Attendees were also offered experiences that surpassed traditional lectures by combining theory with simultaneous practical applications. In addition, students were given the chance to connect with other researchers and well-known professors from around the world in a useful way, laying the groundwork for future international collaborations in health sciences research. A couple of students were willing to give us their point-of-view of the summer school, and this is what they had to say!
Student experiences:
Motunrayo Badejo (PhD student – Vuyo lab): “The 2024 EARTHS Summer School was an unforgettable experience, blending academic rigor with cultural exploration. The connections made with people from diverse backgrounds and the knowledge gained will remain with me forever. I am immensely grateful to everyone who contributed to making the trip a success, including the organizing committee and DAAD, the funding body, for their support and commitment to fostering research and development in Africa. This experience has been one I will cherish, and I look forward to applying the skills and knowledge gained to my future work and collaborations”.
Damilola Ayeni (PhD student – GabLab): “I had an interesting experience at EARTH Summer school. I also had the opportunity to interact with DAAD scholars from 13 different countries in Africa and Yemen which was an amazing experience. I was exposed to German history and culture, I visited reputable institutes in Germany (Robert Koch, Charite, BNITM). I met and listened to established world-class scientisst. I received lectures on project management, writing, statistics, and presentation skills which are crucial for my career development. Overall, I am glad I took the opportunity to participate in the EARTHs summer school 2024 int Hamburg. One of my several take-home messages is to act on my thoughts because that’s where inventions originate, and not to sleep on any opportunity”.
Robinah Nakawunde (MSc student – CLIME): “My overall experience was exceptional. I had an amazing stay because of the academic opportunities, the country’s fascinating history and architecture, and the vibrant culture. My highlight was two of my most significant contributions: “The Person Behind the Science” in which I discussed my experience, my work, my collaborators, and the importance of my work, and a spontaneous speech entitled “Why Feminism is Good for the Economy.”
