New partnership: boosting Africa’s HIV Cure research capacity

For the first time in its 11-year history, SANTHE has partnered with the International AIDS Society (IAS), Geneva, Switzerland, and the HIV Pathogenesis Unit at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), Johannesburg, South Africa, to deliver a Research-for-Cure Academy – an annual event focused on building HIV cure research capacity in Africa. Held at the Wits Rural Facility in Bushbuckridge, Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa, from 4 to 6 June, the 2026 Research-for-Cure Academy brought together 15 early- to mid-career HIV investigators and clinical scientists from across Africa for an intensive programme focused on the latest advances in HIV cure research.

Selected through a competitive fellowship process, participants received full travel support and took part in interactive workshops led by internationally recognised scientists and advocates in the HIV cure field. The academy aimed to provide state-of-the-art training in HIV cure research, strengthen practical research skills and methodologies, including grant writing, and create opportunities for collaboration with global leaders working towards an HIV cure.

By equipping the next generation of African researchers with knowledge, skills and networks, the Research-for-Cure Academy is helping to strengthen the continent’s contribution to the global search for an HIV cure.