Wafaa M Rashed: Celebrating Powerful Reflections From Future Science-Policy Leaders Across Africa – and Beyond

Wafaa M Rashed, Chair and Founder of Pan-African PGS Education and Research Initiative, shared a post on LinkedIn:

“Celebrating Powerful Reflections From Future Science-Policy Leaders Across Africa — and Beyond

As we approach the Debate Sessions of the 14th Cohort of the Policy Advocacy in Genetics and Genomics Course, we are honored to spotlight three outstanding reflections from participants who represent the diverse, brilliant, and committed community driving the future of genomics policy.

• Dr. Nibretu Tsegaye Guto (Ethiopia) – Lecturer, University of Gondar
  He reflects on the transformation of scientific evidence into meaningful policy, the value of ethical grounding, and the impact of engaging with peers across Africa.
• Ouedraogo Patousba Charlotte Dorothée (Burkina Faso) – Master’s Student, Joseph Ki-Zerbo University
  She highlights the power of collaboration, evidence-based influence, and accessible science communication in shaping responsible genomic policies.
• Dr Dolat Singh Shekhawat (India) – Postdoctoral Fellow, AIIMS Jodhpur
  He offers a global perspective on ethics, data governance, and the critical need for strong policy frameworks in the era of advanced molecular diagnostics.

Together, these reflections show something remarkable:

• A generation — African and non-African — fully aware of the importance of policy advocacy in genetics and genomics.
• Young scientists who understand that data, ethics, equity, and evidence shape public trust and national progress.
• Leaders aligned under one mission, one aim, one direction.

This is the vision of PAPERI:

To build a continent (and global network) of scientists who not only understand genomics — but can advocate, influence, and transform policy for the common good.

The future of genomics policy is in strong, thoughtful, and ethical hands.

And the reflections of these participants prove that the next generation is more prepared than ever to lead.

Stay tuned for more reflections as we build momentum toward a landmark debate session.”

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