Visit coincides with launch of Phase 2 of the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTPII) programme

On World AIDS Day 1st December, the Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor and the European Union Commissioner
for Research, Innovation and Science, Carlos Moedas, visited two clinical research sites involved in HIV research. The visits to the
Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation (DTHF) Youth Centre in Masiphumelele and the Clinical Infectious Diseases Initiative (CIDRI)
clinical research site in Khayelitsha coincided with the launch of Phase 2 of the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials
Partnership (EDCTPII).

EU Commissioner for Research, Innovation and Science, Carlos Moedas

Launched on the 2nd of December, EDCTPII is a €630 million program of European investment in Clinical trials and associated
capacity development against HIV, Malaria, tuberculosis and other neglected diseases. The DTHF used the opportunity to exhibit its
groundbreaking contribution to HIV research. Prof Linda-Gail Bekker, Chief of Operations at the DTHF, showcased how a previous
grant from the EDCTP (SASHA study in 2009-2012) initiated a program in adolescent health and HIV prevention at the University
of Cape Town’s Desmond Tutu HIV Centre.

She spoke of the highly successful SASHA study that has provided critical data in preparation for biomedical prevention options. The study contributed to knowledge on the involvement and retention of adolescents in prevention research. More importantly, it
underscored the value of research among adolescents, in both clinical and socio-behavioural research.

Amidst a lively day filled with games and entertainment, Minister Pandor took the opportunity to speak directly to the youth, kindly
but firmly telling them that they have the choice to become an HIV free generation. Driving the message home in isiXhosa and English she reiterated the mantra of the Youth Centre: that youth must take responsibility for their health and make healthy choices.

Prof Graeme Meintjes and Prof Robert Wilkinson at the CIDRI site

In a more formal affair, Robert Wilkinson, Graeme Meintjes and members of the CIDRI team hosted the high-level delegation at
CIDRI’s clinical research site in Khayelitsha. Along with Commissioner Moedas, the event welcomed approximately 200 delegates, including African and European government representatives, major research funders, scientists, industry representatives and other experts in the field.

Delegates had an opportunity to see first-hand the important work that CIDRI is doing to tackle HIV-associated TB. CIDRI supports
extensive research in Infectious Diseases, and one of its objectives is to improve clinical and laboratory research facilities. In addition to operating as a site for clinical research, the Khayelitsha Site B Community Health Clinic is one of the first in South Africa to successfully integrate HIV and TB healthcare services.

The event also provided an opportunity to discuss the role and strategic vision of the second EDCTP programme as well as explore
possibilities for synergies with other international initiatives. EDCTPII will continue to promote the integration of national programmes of EDCTP European Member States and the development of a genuine partnership with African counterparts.

It was a day where research, science and innovation came together with young people who are collaborating to be the beneficiaries of these endeavours; building a healthier South Africa.