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Combating Malaria with Future Gene Drive Technologies
Join our bootcamp to unpack innovative malaria control strategies across Africa.
START DATE
November 1, 2023
TIME COMMITMENT
4 weeks
2 hours / week
POWERED BY
COST
Free of charge
About this bootcamp
Welcome to ‘Combating Malaria with Gene Drive Technologies’ – a Target Malaria and AMA Academy joint initiative designed to elucidate the potential future role of gene drive technologies in stopping malaria transmission.
Our program covers essential training from understanding the distinct concepts of malaria transmission to the application of gene drive mosquitoes in controlling malaria in Africa.
Modules
Understanding malaria and the innovations in prevention and control
Facilitated by
Despite great progress in the last twenty years, malaria is making a come-back because of a series of threats: resistance of mosquitoes to the insecticides, resistance of the parasite to drugs, changing mosquito behaviours, invasive mosquito species. Africa harbours 95% of malaria cases and 96% of malaria deaths. In this context, an understanding of the disease’s lifecycle, symptoms, prevention, and current and innovative control methods is fundamental to accurate and effective reporting.
Genetics and gene drive technology
Facilitated by
The module provides an introduction to the basic principles of genetics that underpin the concepts and applications of gene drive technologies. Gene drives represent a game-changing innovation in malaria control. These technologies have the potential to drastically reduce malaria transmitting mosquito populations. For journalists, understanding these technologies is critical in order to accurately communicate their potential, benefits, and challenges to the public and encourage informed discourse.
Regulatory environment, pathway, benefits and risks
Facilitated by
This module focuses on the critical considerations and implications of applying gene drive technologies. It emphasises the importance of understanding the regulatory frameworks governing their use, from research principles and application guidelines to regulatory pathways. The module ensures learners appreciate both the potential benefits and risks.
Stakeholder Engagement and Community Agreement Models
Facilitated by
Stakeholder engagement is imperative for ethically researching genetically modified mosquitoes, as recognized by the WHO. Co-development and engagement with potentially impacted communities, alongside regulatory authorities, is crucial. This process ensures a honest conveyance of technology and research.
Are you ready to contribute positively to your community's health and support a malaria-free Africa?
About AMA Academy
AMA Academy is an instritution that helps build highly demanded skillsets for those pursuing a career in the media industry.
academy(at)africanmediaagency.com
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