Ramsuran Lab Represented Among Africa’s Emerging Research Leaders
29 October 2026
Dr Anmol Gokul reflects on a year with the James Gita Hakim Scholarship Programme
The James Gita Hakim Scholarship Programme, part of the Sub-Saharan African Network for TB/HIV Research Excellence (SANTHE), is a mentorship and professional development initiative that brings together early career scientists from across Africa. Through interactive workshops, collaborative activities and individual mentorship sessions, the programme provides opportunities for emerging researchers to develop their skills, expand their professional networks and strengthen scientific collaboration across the continent.
Representing the Ramsuran Lab, Dr Anmol Gokul was selected as a scholar for the James Gita Hakim Scholarship Programme, joining a network of emerging scientists from different African countries, institutions and research disciplines. Over the course of a year, he participated in online workshops, interactive group activities and one-on-one mentorship sessions aimed at supporting professional and personal development. The programme culminated in an in-person conference held in Johannesburg, South Africa, where Dr Gokul joined fellow scholars and mentors to exchange knowledge, share experiences and strengthen connections established throughout the programme.
More Than a Scholarship: Opportunities for African Researchers
Beyond professional development, the programme offers researchers an opportunity to become part of a wider African scientific community. Through mentorship, collaborative discussions and engagement with scientists from different backgrounds, participants can gain new perspectives, strengthen their professional networks and develop valuable skills for navigating a career in scientific research.
For Dr Gokul, these opportunities extended beyond the virtual sessions. Attending the conference in Johannesburg allowed him to meet fellow scholars and mentors after a year of online engagement, strengthening professional relationships and creating opportunities for continued collaboration.
Dr Gokul Shares His Experience
In His Own Words
“Being selected for the James Gita Hakim Scholarship Programme was both an honour and a privilege. As an early career scientist, I have come to understand that scientific research is not only about generating knowledge, but also about building connections, sharing experiences and recognising the challenges we face as researchers, particularly in an African context.
Through online workshops, interactive group activities and one-on-one mentorship sessions, I had the opportunity to engage with scientists from different backgrounds and areas of expertise across Africa. These interactions exposed me to diverse research perspectives while highlighting the common challenges we face, despite working in different countries and institutions.
One of the most valuable aspects of the programme was the mentorship. The sessions encouraged me to reflect on my professional development, challenge my perspectives and appreciate the experiences of others. They reinforced the importance of collaboration, self-reflection and supporting one another throughout our scientific journeys.
Attending the final gathering in Johannesburg was particularly special. After a year of virtual engagement, meeting fellow scholars and mentors face-to-face strengthened the connections we had built and reminded me of our shared aspiration to advance scientific research across Africa.
I am sincerely grateful to have been selected for this programme and for the opportunity to learn from such an inspiring network of mentors and researchers. I leave with new connections, a deeper appreciation of my journey as a scientist and a renewed commitment to supporting and empowering the next generation of African researchers.”
— Dr Anmol Gokul
Interested in Future Opportunities?
For early career scientists looking to expand their professional networks, develop their research careers and connect with fellow researchers across Africa, the James Gita Hakim Scholarship Programme highlights the importance of mentorship, collaboration and scientific exchange.
Researchers interested in future opportunities are encouraged to visit the SANTHE website for information on available scholarships, fellowships and professional development opportunities, as well as future application announcements.
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