SANAC CONGRATULATES DR THEMBISILE XULU ON HER APPOINTMENT AS A MEMBER OF THE CAPRISA SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD
- Karabo Makgato
The South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) extends heartfelt congratulations to its CEO, Dr. Thembisile Xulu, on her appointment as a member of the prestigious Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) Scientific Advisory Board. Dr Xulu has been appointed on a three-year term starting from 01 September 2024 to 31 December 2027.
CAPRISA, a leading AIDS research organisation, was established in 2002 as a not-for-profit organisation with a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) by five major institutions, namely the University of Natal (now the University of KwaZulu Natal), University of Cape Town, University of Western Cape, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, and Columbia University. The Organisation has evolved and now holds many other grants with the NIH still being one of CAPRISA’s main funders. CAPRISA is a designated UNAIDS Collaborating Centre for HIV Research and Policy; and is the South African Department of Science and Innovation and the National Research Foundation designated Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention.
CAPRISA undertakes high-impact globally relevant and locally responsive research to research on HIV, TB and SARS-CoV-2 epidemiology, pathogenesis, prevention and treatment. To achieve this goal, CAPRISA conducts research mainly in four scientific programmes: 10 HIV and SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and vaccines, 20 HIV and TB treatment, 3) HIV epidemiology and prevention and 4) Pandemic preparedness and epidemic intelligence.
Dr. Xulu’s appointment is a testament to her unwavering dedication to advancing public health, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) in South Africa. Her extensive experience in healthcare leadership, coupled with her deep commitment to strengthening the country’s response to these critical health challenges, makes her an invaluable addition to CAPRISA’s Scientific Advisory Board.
“I am deeply honoured to join the CAPRISA Scientific Advisory Board. This opportunity will allow me to work alongside some of the most brilliant minds in the field, and together, we can make further significant strides in response to HIV, TB and STIs in our country”, said Dr. Xulu.
As the CEO embarks on this new chapter with CAPRISA, SANAC hopes that her insights and leadership will be invaluable in shaping the future of HIV/AIDS research and policy. Her commitment to public health and her passion for making a difference in the lives of others continue to inspire all who work alongside her. SANAC congratulates Dr. Xulu and looks forward to the impact she will bring to CAPRISA and the broader public health community.