SAMRC President Lecture Highlighted Disability Inclusion and Health Equity

The SAMRC President Lecture featured Prof. Harsha Kathard, a leading scholar in disability studies and inclusive practices, who presented on the role of disability inclusion research in advancing health equity.

Titled “Strengthening Disability Inclusion Research as a Pathway to Health Equity: Challenging Ableism,” the lecture explored how systemic barriers continue to shape unequal health outcomes, and how research can support more inclusive and equitable practices. Prof. Kathard, Research Director of the Inclusive Practices Africa Research Unit at the University of Cape Town, focuses on advancing disability inclusion across health, education, and economic sectors. She has also held several leadership roles at UCT and contributed extensively to postgraduate training and research.

The lecture took place on Wednesday, 29 April 2026 at the SAMRC Cape Town Main Boardroom, with an online attendance option available, and provided a valuable platform for engaging with critical issues of inclusion, equity, and the future of healthcare systems.