The collaborative African genomics network training program: a trainee perspective on training the next generation of African scientists

Abstract

Purpose The Collaborative African Genomics Network (CAfGEN) aims to establish sustainable genomics research programs in Botswana and Uganda through long-term training of Ph.D. students from these countries at Baylor College of Medicine. Here we present an overview of the CAfGEN Ph.D. training program alongside trainees’ perspectives on their involvement. Background Historically, collaborations between High Income Countries (HICs) and Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs), or North-South collaborations, have been criticized for the lack of a mutually beneficial distribution of resources and research findings, often undermining LMICs. CAfGEN purposes to address this imbalance in the genomics field through a program of technology and expertise transfer to the participating LMICs. Methods An overview of the training program is presented. Trainees from the CAfGEN project summarized their experiences, looking specifically at the training model, benefits of the program, challenges encountered relating to the cultural transition, and program outcomes after the first two years. Conclusion Collaborative training programs like CAfGEN will not only help establish sustainable long-term research initiatives in LMICs, but foster stronger North-South and South-South networks. The CAfGEN model offers a framework for the development of training programs aimed at genomics education for those for whom genomics is not their “first language.”

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