Prosper Magara, PhD researcher of the Telemedicine and Connected Care (TCC) research group within the Division of Biomedical Engineering at UCT’s Faculty of Health Sciences was awarded a Google PhD Fellowship Award.

Under the mentorship of Dr. Bessie Malila, head of the TCC and Dr Lamees Ras from UCT’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, as well as Professor Ahmed Biyabani form the Carnegie Mellon University Africa, Magara’s research focuses on developing an advanced telementoring system for laparoscopic surgery, also known as keyhole surgery because it is minimally invasive.

This system is designed to enhance surgical training for doctors in underserved regions, thereby improving patient access to quality surgical care. By integrating artificial intelligence for real-time decision support during surgery, the research aims to reduce perioperative risks and prevent postoperative complications, ultimately advancing safer and more accessible surgical practices.

“I am honoured to have been awarded the PhD Fellowship Award, a recognition that not only funds my research but also provides invaluable support for developing a telementoring system for laparoscopic surgery,” said Magara.  “This fellowship highlights the significance of advancing surgical training in underserved areas and equips me with both the financial resources and expert guidance needed to drive my research forward.”

A key benefit of this award is the opportunity to work with a mentor from Google, a leading tech innovator, whose insights bring a valuable perspective to the technical aspects of his work.

“Together with my supervisors and Google mentor I am excited to contribute to telemedicine and connected care,” he said. 

“Through this project, I aim to improve access to quality surgical care and help reduce perioperative complications, aligning my work with impactful, AI-driven solutions for healthcare worldwide.”