Contemporary Bioethics in African Contexts

Applied Ethics for Research, Health, and Policy 

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A Sponsored Professional Development Initiative by the Africa Bioethics Network (ABN)

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Africa Bioethics Network (ABN) invites applications for our intensive, high-impact 2-
week training program in Contemporary Bioethics. This sponsored opportunity empowers
African professionals with cutting-edge ethical frameworks rooted in African philosophies
and global best practices.
Format: Virtual, interactive delivery
Duration: 10 working days (30 contact hours)
Dates: August 18-29, 2025
Language: English
Cohort Size: 40 participants maximum
This is not a conventional course-it is a sponsored leadership development track designed
for individuals with a strong commitment to bioethics advancement in Africa.

Valued at $1,000 USD per participant, this competitive, fully sponsored opportunity
includes:
• Interactive sessions with African and global bioethics experts
• Access to a rich digital library and training resources
• Tiered ABN certification (Participation, Competency, Excellence levels)
• Membership in ABN's exclusive alumni network
• Recognition within ABN's continental network
• Capstone project for immediate institutional application

This program targets African professionals and advanced students committed to ethical
leadership and institutional change:
Primary Candidates:
• Research Ethics Committee (REC/IRB) Members & Administrators
• Health Professionals & Clinical Researchers with ethics responsibilities
• Policy Makers & Regulators in health, research, and technology sectors
• Academic Faculty teaching or developing bioethics curricula
• Advanced Graduate Students (PhD level) in bioethics-related fields
• Early Career Researchers with ethics oversight roles
Sectors & Settings:
• Universities and research institutions
• Healthcare facilities and clinical research centers
• Government health and research departments
• NGOs and international development organizations
• Technology and digital health initiatives

Essential Requirements:
• African residence and professional/academic affiliation
• For Professionals: Minimum 3 years relevant experience in health, research, or policy
• For Students: Advanced degree (PhD/Master's) in progress with ethics component
• English proficiency for full participation in discussions and materials
• Institutional support for training participation and implementation
• Technology access: Reliable internet and device with camera/microphone
• Full commitment to attend all sessions and complete capstone project
Preferred Qualifications:
• Current or intended role in ethics oversight, research, or teaching
• Clear institutional implementation plan and support
• Experience working with underserved or vulnerable communities
• For Students: Strong academic record and research potential in bioethics-related areas
Institutional Documentation Required:
For Professionals: Line manager letter confirming support and availability
For Students: Academic supervisor endorsement letter
All Applicants: Institutional support confirmation for implementation

Context-Rooted Ethical Competence: Apply bioethics principles confidently across
African settings - combining international standards with Ubuntu, Islamic bioethics, and
indigenous traditions
Practical, Applied Skills: Build hands-on proficiency in REC operations, protocol review,
informed consent design, and community engagement through realistic case studies and
simulations
Leadership & Policy Influence: Position yourself to shape institutional, national, or
continental ethical governance by gaining tools to lead Research Ethics Committees and
advise policy
Specialization in Emerging Issues: Engage critically with AI ethics, genomics, digital
health, and environmental justice - equipped with frameworks adapted for African realities
Certification with Impact: Earn tiered ABN certification with options to join mentorship
networks and gain visibility as an ethical leader in Africa
Continental Peer Network: Join a select network of 40 ethics professionals across Africa
for research collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth
Capstone Output: Complete a practical project - institutional change brief, protocol
critique, ethics education design, or community engagement plan, for immediate
application 

Applications will be evaluated based on:
1. Implementation Potential (30%) - Institutional position, support level, and realistic
change plans
2. Professional Excellence (25%) - Experience depth and leadership potential
3. Commitment to African Bioethics (20%) - Vision for continental contribution and
network engagement
4. Geographic & Sectoral Diversity (15%) - Continental representation and sector balance
5. Application Quality (10%) - Completeness, professional presentation, and ethical
reasoning
Total Available Positions: 40 participants 

Submit the following through this link:
1. Online Application Form
Complete application covering professional background, ethics experience, and
implementation plans
2. Professional Statement (600-800 words)
Share your vision for ethical leadership and how this training will help you create meaningful
change in African bioethics. Template provided for guidance.
3. Curriculum Vitae (maximum 4 pages, PDF)
4. Institutional Support Letter
One letter from your line manager/supervisor confirming support for participation and
implementation
5. Two Professional References
Contact details for references (we will contact them directly with a brief form)

Applications Open           June 25, 2025
Application Deadline       July 20, 2025, 23:59 EAT
Notification of Selection  August 01, 2025
Confirmation Deadline    August 08, 2025
Training Program            August 18-29, 2025

During Training:
• Full participation in all 30 contact hours over 10 days
• Active engagement in case studies, simulations, and collaborative exercises
• Professional conduct and peer collaboration
• Completion of assessments and capstone project planning
After Training:
• Complete a capstone project within 6 months
• Participate in ABN alumni network and follow-up activities
• Contribute to ABN's knowledge platform (blogs, webinars, mentorship)
• Apply training to create institutional or policy change 

Upon successful completion:
• ABN Certificate of Professional Competence in Bioethics
Digital credential badge for professional profiles
Alumni status in ABN professional network
Continuing education credits (where applicable)
Potential progression to Excellence certification and mentorship roles

🌐 Submit your application here: APPLICATION PORTAL LINK
📧 For questions, contact: secretariat@africabioethicsnetwork.org
🌐 Learn more: www.africabioethicsnetwork.org

ABN is Africa's leading network for bioethics education, policy, and practice. With 1,200+
members in 40+ countries, ABN builds ethical leadership through training, research,
publications, and partnerships with international and regional institutions.
Our Impact:
800+ professionals trained across the continent
Africa's first bioethics journal - African Journal of Bioethics
Continental policy influence in research ethics and health governance
Active networks in 40+ African countries