University of KwaZulu-Natal Professor Kaymarlin Govender has been appointed to the Scientific and Technical Advisory Group of the WHO-led Human Reproduction Programme for a three-year term from 2027 to 2029. This appointment recognises Govender's over two decades of work in behavioural science, health systems, health policy, HIV and AIDS, and sexual and reproductive health research. Govender is the Research Director at UKZN's Health Economics and HIV/AIDS Research Division.
Govender's work has extensively covered sub-Saharan Africa, providing research and technical support to governments, non-governmental organisations, multilateral agencies, and advocacy organisations. His research focuses on whether health interventions work and whether they are affordable, cost-effective, sustainable, and capable of being implemented through existing health systems. Govender's expertise will give UKZN an opportunity to contribute to international discussions on research priorities affecting health policy, health systems, and communities worldwide.
As a member of the advisory group, Govender will help review the HRP's scientific and technical work, advise on research priorities and approaches, and assess the quality, relevance, and potential impact of the programme's activities. Govender aims to ensure global research priorities remain connected to the realities of communities in low- and middle-income countries, particularly those in Africa. He wants research priorities to account for the lived experiences of people affected by poverty, gender inequality, stigma, violence, and limited resources.
UKZN Executive Director: Corporate Relations Dr. Normah Zondo congratulated Govender on his appointment, saying it reflected the depth and international relevance of research being produced by the university. Zondo added that Govender's expertise would create another avenue for UKZN's research expertise to contribute to global health priorities. Govender's international experience includes work with organisations such as Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, UNFPA, UNICEF, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Global Fund, and the Wellcome Trust.
Govender also wants to strengthen recognition of evidence generated in low- and middle-income countries, arguing that African researchers and communities have valuable knowledge and experience to contribute to global health research. His appointment brings distinction to UKZN while showcasing the university's research capabilities. Govender's work has significant implications for global health research, particularly in addressing the unique challenges faced by low- and middle-income countries.
The HRP is a Special Programme of Research, Development, and Research Training in Human Reproduction, led by the World Health Organization, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme, United Nations Population Fund, United Nations Children's Fund, World Bank, and other partners. The programme aims to improve human reproduction and sexual health by generating and disseminating knowledge, and promoting the implementation of effective interventions.
Govender's three-year term on the Scientific and Technical Advisory Group will enable him to contribute to shaping research priorities in human reproduction and sexual health. His expertise and experience will inform the development of research agendas and ensure that global health research is responsive to the needs of communities in low- and middle-income countries.
Key points
- Govender's appointment recognises his over two decades of work in behavioural science, health systems, health policy, HIV and AIDS, and sexual and reproductive health research.
- Govender aims to ensure global research priorities remain connected to the realities of communities in low- and middle-income countries, particularly those in Africa.
- The appointment brings distinction to UKZN while creating another avenue for the university's research expertise to contribute to global health priorities.
