Laboratory diagnostics and patient care are evolving rapidly, driven by new technologies and the advent of artificial intelligence to address pandemic threats. Keeping pace with future diagnostics requires strategic bilateral and multilateral partnerships. In response, the African Society for Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) and the Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub (Wits-DIH) have committed to collaborate closely on pioneering advancements in diagnostics.

Last week, the ASLM team, including Dr Talkmore Maruta (Acting Director of Programs), Anafi Mataka (Portfolio Lead), and Nelly Rwenji (Senior Brand and Communications Manager), visited the Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub in South Africa to discuss new areas of laboratory innovation and opportunities they present for the partnership. Prof Wendy Stevens, Executive Director of the Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub, emphasised the importance of this partnership. “I see great learning opportunities, lab innovations, and diverse avenues to explore ways to ensure affordable diagnostics with autonomy for Africa. ASLM and Wits DIH should create simplified actions related to pandemic preparedness,” she stated.

Dr Maruta echoed this sentiment, highlighting the centrality of innovation within ASLM’s science portfolio. “We must think and act with both the present and future in mind to support the changing nature of diagnostics,” he said.

Prof Stevens challenged the ASLM and Wits-DIH teams to bring the most pressing problems in diagnostics to the hub for resolution, noting, “The labs here are equipped, and the staff are capable of providing solutions to African public health challenges.”

In line with the evolving diagnostic space, it is also crucial to train and prepare lab professionals for the future. Earlier this week, ASLM convened stakeholders to develop a five-year strategic plan for the ASLM Academy. This plan focuses on workforce development in collaboration with the Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub and other partners. Anafi Mataka remarked that Wits DIH will support the ASLM Academy through collaborative training programmes, ensuring the accessibility of diagnostics across countries via their expertise and innovation.

Prof Stevens expressed confidence in the partnership, stating, “ASLM and Wits DIH are clear on what needs to be done and how it shall be done. We have the experts, and success breeds success. We must leverage the small steps we have taken towards a promising future.” Mr Mataka added that the ASLM internship programme is pivotal for workforce development and proper deployment post-internship. He emphasised the opportunity to create learning journeys towards developing ideal professionals for the future. Additionally, he stressed the importance of developing a learners’ fund to ensure sustainability and prevent lack of funds from being a barrier to laboratory innovation.

The partnership between ASLM and the Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub is set to revolutionise diagnostics in Africa. This collaboration promises to foster innovation, enhance accessibility, and prepare for future health challenges through strategic planning and shared expertise.