WSU RESEARCHER TAKES SEAT AT GLOBAL HEALTH TABLE

Selected from a competitive pool of 12 international candidates representing 11 countries, WSU leading researcher and rheumatologist Prof Ajesh Maharaj is now one of six professionals globally to serve on Steering Committee of the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA).

This historic achievement for South African academia and healthcare is a first for WSU and the Eastern Cape region.

“Being elected to GRAPPA’s Steering Committee is a significant personal milestone for me. It symbolises recognition by my peers and a validation of my commitment to advancing the field of psoriatic disease. Personally, it strengthens my sense of belonging and responsibility in shaping innovative approaches to research and practice within our field,” said Maharaj.

Maharaj’s election brings African healthcare challenges and solutions into a global dialogue on psoriatic arthritis and related diseases.

“One of my primary goals is to ensure that the unique healthcare challenges and cultural contexts of African patients are acknowledged in global rheumatology discussions. By actively participating in committee meetings and working groups, I can bring forth specific issues faced by African populations related to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of rheumatological conditions,” said Maharaj.

He added that there is a relative dearth of published literature from the African continent relative to the rest of the world and his role at GRAPPA will advocate for and promote research initiatives that focus on rheumatology in African contexts.

“By highlighting the importance of studying the prevalence, treatment efficacy, and patient outcomes specific to our populations, I can help drive research efforts that yield data relevant to the unique challenges faced by African patients. This research can then inform global guidelines and ensure they are aligned with the realities of treating rheumatological diseases in Africa.,” said Maharaj.

This appointment aligns strongly with WSU Vision 2030, which prioritizes innovation, impactful research, and social responsiveness.

“My role allows me to advocate for the establishment of fellowship programmes and scholarships for WSU medical students and researchers interested in pursuing advanced training or research in rheumatology. These opportunities can provide vital financial support and resources for students to engage in international conferences, workshops, or specialised training, enhancing their educational experience and expertise in the field,” he added.

He concluded that this culture of inquiry will not only enhance academic excellence but also position WSU as a leader in rheumatology research in the region.

By Anita Roji