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STRENGTHENING EPIDEMIC MODELLING CAPACITY IN SSA THROUGH THE INTERNATIONAL CLINICS ON INFECTIOUS DISEASE DYNAMICS AND DATA (ICI3D) PROGRAMME

Grant number: 101249130

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Key facts

  • Disease

    N/A

  • Start & end year

    2026
    2029

  • Known Financial Commitments (USD)

    $1,518,297.64

  • Funder

    European Commission

  • Principal Investigator

    N/A

  • Research Location

    Belgium

  • Lead Research Institution

    EUROPEAN & DEVELOPING COUNTRIES CLINICAL TRIALS PARTNERSHIP

  • Research Priority Alignment

    N/A

  • Research Category

    Epidemiological studies

  • Research Subcategory

    N/A

  • Special Interest Tags

    N/A

  • Study Type

    Not applicable

  • Clinical Trial Details

    N/A

  • Broad Policy Alignment

    Pending

  • Age Group

    Not Applicable

  • Vulnerable Population

    Not applicable

  • Occupations of Interest

    Not applicable

Abstract

The International Clinics on Infectious Disease Dynamics & Data (ICI3D) program has trained 750+ SSA-based public health workers and researchers. This interdisciplinary, project-oriented, and inclusive training pipeline equips participants to address real-world challenges: our alums have played key roles in responses to Ebola, COVID-19, and mpox among other threats. ICI3D is based in the South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA) at Stellenbosch University, a key hub actively contributing to HIV, TB, and pandemic research and response. ICI3D alums founded the Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (CEMA) at the University of Nairobi, which led COVID-19 modelling efforts in Kenya. Today, CEMA is a key ICI3D implementing partner, strengthening regional capacity in infectious disease modelling. ICI3D has historically been US funded, but now urgently needs to diversify support networks for ongoing activities. Led by Dr. Cari van Schalkwyk (SACEMA) and Prof. Thumbi Mwangi (CEMA), ICI3D seeks Horizon Europe support to run two clinics and launch two strategic programs, ensuring continued capacity building and alumni engagement, while amplifying our impact by cultivating new training courses: • Dynamical Approaches to Infectious Disease Data, an introduction to modelling and evidence-based policymaking for public health professionals • Meaningful Modelling of Epidemiological Data, an advanced modelling course organized around collaborative projects on real world data and research questions • Regional Alumni Forum & Symposia, an initiative to connect ICI3D alumni to new opportunities and collaborations, organized around bi-monthly seminars and associated forum discussions; and • Modelling Clinic Accelerator, an initiative to support new courses via bi-directional faculty exchanges, co-developed materials and expert advice. Funding would also support updating and expanding materials, and incubate a sustainable open-source community.