Strengthening the next generation of African scientists in brain and mental health research is critical to addressing the continent’s growing burden of neurological and psychiatric conditions. In response to this need, we hosted the third cohort of the Neuropsychopharmacology Training Programme for Early- and Mid-Career African Researchers, in collaboration with the African College of Neuropsychopharmacology and the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, from June 7–12, 2026, in Nairobi.
The programme brought together 25 early- and mid-career researchers from 15 African countries, spanning neuroscience, psychiatry, neurology, psychology, pharmacology and related disciplines. It reinforced the importance of strengthening early-career research capacity to generate locally relevant evidence and develop sustainable solutions for brain and mental health challenges across Africa.
Speaking on the focus of this year’s programme, Prof Lukoye Atwoli, Deputy Director of the Brain and Mind Institute and Dean of the Medical College, emphasized the importance of precision approaches and holistic training for emerging researchers. “This year’s school focused on precision neuropsychopharmacology, advancing personalized care for brain and mental health. Training programmes such as this are essential because they provide not only technical skills, but also mentorship, collaboration and exposure to diverse perspectives that shape impactful research,” he said.
Building Africa’s Research Capacity Through Collaborative Training
Over the five days, participants engaged in expert-led lectures, interactive discussions, mentorship sessions and peer-learning activities designed to strengthen scientific skills, encourage cross-disciplinary thinking, and build long-term professional networks. Participants described the programme as highly impactful, noting its role in broadening perspectives and strengthening research capacity.
“This session exceeded my expectations, reinforcing focused and interdisciplinary learning while highlighting Africa’s significant and often under-recognized scientific progress,” noted Dr Precious Timothy Makiyi, a Medical Doctor and Doctoral student at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Malawi.
The programme continues to serve as a key platform for strengthening research capacity, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and advancing precision approaches in neuropsychopharmacology to address Africa’s evolving brain and mental health needs.
“As early-career researchers, we must push boundaries and embrace collaboration to advance brain health and improve patient care in Africa,” said Alinaitwe Racheal, a Psychiatrist and Doctoral student at Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Uganda.
Faculty Highlight Growing Continental Impact
Faculty members reflected on the programme’s growing contribution to building an integrated and collaborative approach to brain health research across Africa.
“I am proud that in our third year, we continue to build a multidisciplinary approach to brain health, breaking silos in research and capacity building across Africa, and having already trained over 75 participants as we expand our impact,” said Prof Amadi Ogonda Ihunwo of Wits University, Johannesburg, South Africa.
The third cohort of the Neuropsychopharmacology Training Programme reaffirmed the importance of sustained investment in early-career researchers as a foundation for advancing brain and mental health research in Africa. The programme continues to play a vital role in equipping the next generation of researchers with the skills, mentorship, and networks needed to generate impactful, context-relevant solutions to the continent’s mental health challenges.
