The Pathology Research and Development Congress (PathReD) presents a thrilling opportunity for medical laboratory professionals, Public Health specialists, and researchers to collaboratively enhance and innovate within the realm of pathology and laboratory medicine. Brought to you by the NHLS which is the largest public health laboratory in South Africa. PathReD has grown in magnitude to become the largest congregation of pathology experts in South Africa, serving as a pivotal platform for knowledge exchange and the exhibition of cutting-edge research.
The congress facilitates networking and collaboration opportunities, fostering an increasingly expansive professional network with each successive congress. The 2023 edition saw over 1000 delegates in attendance, solidifying PathReD’s reputation as a premier event. Aligned with the NHLS mandate of teaching, training, and research, PathReD offers educational avenues through workshops designed to elevate the skills of students, trainees and emerging researchers in various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes spanning pathology, occupational health, and public health disciplines.
The 5th PathReD Congress, held in a hybrid format from August 31st to September 3rd, 2023, seamlessly blended onsite activities at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre, Johannesburg, O.R. Tambo, Estate 154, Corner 3rd & 6th Avenue, Bredell, Kempton Park, Johannesburg. Themed "Next Generation Pathology," the congress underscored the industry's adaptability, successfully navigating hybrid events while adhering to safety protocols and incorporating advanced technologies.
Consistent with tradition, the Congress achieved resounding success, earning praise from attendees, sponsors, and the NHLS Board. The high standard of organization, coupled with engaging content and an excellent line-up of speakers, contributed to PathReD’s overall acclaim.
Best Oral Presentation in Anatomical Pathology
Registrar, SMU, NHLS
Best Oral Presentation in Chemical Pathology
Registrar, UCT, NHLS
Best Oral Presentation in Haematology
Pathologist, NHLS
Best Oral Presentation in Human Genetics
Intern Medical Scientist, NHLS
Best Oral Presentation in Immunology
Student, UL
Best Oral Presentation in Medical Microbiology
Medical Scientist, WITS
Best Oral Presentation in Public Health
Student, NICD
Best Oral Presentation in Medical Virology
Student, SMU
Best Poster in Anatomical Pathology
Student, SMU
Best Poster in Chemical Pathology
Medical Scientist, NHLS
Best Poster in Human Genetics
Medical Scientist, WITS, NHLS
Best Poster in Immunology
Medical Scientist, SMU, NHLS
Best Poster in Public Health
Lecturer, TUT
Best Poster in Medical Virology
Pathologist, UP, NHLS
1st Place Active Participation on PathRed Gamification
Student, UL
2nd Place Active Participation on PathRed Gamification
Student, UL
3rd Place Active Participation on PathRed Gamification
Student, UL
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the NHLS Board and Executive members for their unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and continued support in making PathReD a world-class platform for research and innovation in pathology.
Prof. Jeffrey Mphahlele
Chairperson:NHLS Board
Prof. Andrian Puren
Executive Director: NICD
Dr. Babatyi Malope-Kgokong
National Manager AAR
Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi
Honourable Minister of Health
Prof. Adrian Egli is Professor and Director at the Institute of Medical Microbiology at the University of Zurich. He received his MD in 2004 and his PhD in 2008 with summa cum laude from the University of Basel focusing on viral epitope mapping. He then did a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Alberta in Canada from 2011 to 2012, focusing on the immune responses against viruses. Back in Switzerland,
Dr Pakishe Aaron Motsoaledi qualified as a Medical Practitioner with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) in 1983 from the University of Natal and later practised in various hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo until April 1994. He served in leadership positions in various mass democratic movement
Professor Koleka Mlisana is the Chief Executive Officer of the NHLS. Before her appointment she served as the Executive Manager: Academic Affairs, Research & Quality Assurance at the NHLS, from July 2018 to April 2024. Prior to this, she was the Head of Dept of Medical Microbiology at UKZN/IALCH. Her over 20year period of research and academia was spent in clinical microbiology, infectious diseases, and public health.
Adrian Egli is Professor and Director at the Institute of Medical Microbiology at the University of Zurich. He received his MD in 2004 and his PhD in 2008 with summa cum laude from the University of Basel focusing on viral epitope mapping. He then did a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Alberta in Canada from 2011 to 2012, focusing on the immune responses against viruses. Back in Switzerland, he switched his research more to risk assessments of pathogens combining different -omics technologies. He is a co-founder of the Swiss Pathogen Surveillance Platform and the Personalized Swiss Sepsis Study, both networks of academic centers using large datasets of whole genome sequencing data to understand transmission and pathogenicity.
Dr Pakishe Aaron Motsoaledi qualified as a Medical Practitioner with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) in 1983 from the University of Natal and later practised in various hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo until April 1994. He served in leadership positions in various mass democratic movement structures before the unbanning of the ANC in 1990. These include the NEC member of the United Democratic, Chairperson of the Sekhukhune Advice Office, Deputy Chairperson of the African National Congress (ANC) in the then Northern Transvaal, Head of the ANC Elections Commission for Limpopo Province, and the list goes on. Currently, Dr Motsoaledi is a member of the African National Congress (ANC) National Executive Committee. Dr Motsoaledi served as a Member of the Limpopo Provincial Executive Council (MEC) under various portfolios or departments, including Education, Transport, Agriculture, Land and Environment, between 1994 and 2009. He is the former and current Minister of Health of the Republic of South Africa. He is the longest-serving Health Minister since the dawn of democracy in South Africa. He was previously Minister of Home Affairs from 30 May 2019 to 19 June 2024. On the 3rd of July 2024, President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa appointed Dr Aaron Motsoaledi as the Minister of Health in South Africa.
Professor Koleka Mlisana is the Chief Executive Officer of the NHLS. Before her appointment she served as the Executive Manager: Academic Affairs, Research & Quality Assurance at the NHLS, from July 2018 to April 2024. Prior to this, she was the Head of Dept of Medical Microbiology at UKZN/IALCH. Her over 20year period of research and academia was spent in HIV pathogenesis and prevention research as well as sexually transmitted infections and genital inflammation research at the Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA); as Head of Microbiology, Prof Mlisana broadened her research to include TB diagnostics; drug resistant TB; antimicrobial resistance and recently COVID-19 related research. She has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and has mentored numerous young scientists. She has supervised many Master’s and PhD students and trained numerous registrars in medical microbiology. Prof Mlisana has been a member of various Boards including Medical and Dental Board of the HPCSA (current); SA MRC; SANAC and NHLS. She has served on the Ministerial Advisory Committee (MAC) on Antimicrobial Resistance and recently co-chaired the MAC on COVID-19. She is a member of the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf).
Dr Dewaldt Engelbrecht completed his undergraduate training at the University of Johannesburg in Biochemistry and Psychology, before moving to the University of the Witwatersrand for MSc and PhD studies in Molecular Medicine, examining programmed cell death in the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. He is an HPCSA-registered Medical Biological Scientist with experience in oncology clinical laboratory medicine. After a hiatus from academia to gain industry experience and specialised technical knowledge, he joined the Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub as Principal Scientist of the Molecular Oncology Laboratory, aimed at driving groundbreaking diagnostic techniques in oncology and delivering those services to patients.
Dr. Babatyi Innocentia Malope-Kgokong is a distinguished academic leader and researcher, serving as the Head of Academic Affairs and Research at the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). With a PhD in Community Health from the University of the Witwatersrand, a Postgraduate Diploma in Economic Policies from the University of London, and an MSc (Cum Laude) and BSc in Medical Laboratory Sciences from the University of Limpopo, she provides strategic leadership in academic and research endeavours, fostering collaborations and advancing the organization's research agenda.
As a renowned expert in her field, Dr. Malope-Kgokong has held lecturing positions at the University of Limpopo and University of Johannesburg and has research experience in epidemiology and data management at the Clinical HIV Research Unit and National Institute for Communicable Diseases. Her research profile boasts numerous peer-reviewed articles in reputable scientific journals, with over 1500 citations, an h-index of 15, and an i10 index of 18. In addition to her research expertise, she has a proven track record of bringing together stakeholders from diverse backgrounds to facilitate knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation.
Dr. Malope-Kgokong's academic service extends to her membership on the Executive Committee of the National Science and Technology Forum, the National Health Research Committee, the Health Professional Council of South Africa - Committee for Medical Scientists Task Team, and various other committees and task teams.
Prof. Craig Househam is a graduate of the University of Cape Town, having completed both undergraduate and postgraduate study at this university. He is a specialist paediatrician and holds an honorary professorship from the University of the Free State, where he headed the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health until January 1995. He became the head of the Free State Health Department in February 1995, a post which he held until 2001. In 2002, he was appointed as head of the Western Cape Department of Health, a post which he held until his retirement on 31st March 2015. As Head of Health in the Free State and the Western Cape, Prof Househam served various national and provincial bodies and management structures. Since his retirement, Professor Househam served on a national ministerial task team related to hospital performance from 2015 to 2017 and from December 2017 to April 2018 and was a member of the intervention task team appointed to assist the management of the Gauteng Department of Health. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Prof Househam was appointed with Prof Taole Mokoena to investigate Personal Protective Equipment PPE) availability in three major hospitals. Prof Househam was contracted from April 2021 to April 2022 by the National Treasury to review Public Financial Management (PFM) practice in the health sector in North-West Province. He is the author of two books, a contributor to two medical textbooks, and the author of scientific publications in the fields of paediatrics and healthcare. Prof Househam has served on the boards of the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), where he chaired the SAHPRA Board Audit Committee, and the Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC), where he was a member of the OHSC Board Finance and Risk Committee. He is currently Vice Chairperson of the St. Luke’s Hospice Operating Company Board and Chair of the Board Risk Committee and was appointed as Deputy Chairperson of the NHLS Board on 1 November 2024.
Prof. Jeffrey Mphahlele (BSc, BSc Med Hons, MSc, PhD), is the Chairperson of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) Board. He is the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation at the North-West University (NWU). He is a medical-biological scientist with a PhD in medical virology. Prior to joining the NWU, he was the Vice President for Research at the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) (October 2014 to June 2021). He was a full-time academic at MEDUNSA (later University of Limpopo MEDUNSA Campus) in various capacities: Professor and Academic Head of the Department of Virology and the NHLS (2005 to September 2014); Co-Director of the SAMRC/Diarrhoeal Pathogens Research Unit, which is a WHO Regional Reference Laboratory for Rotaviruses in Africa (2010 to March 2018); and Co-founder and Head of the South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre (SAVIC; www.savic.ac.za) hosted by Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (2005-2014). He trained, supervised, and mentored several post-doctoral, doctoral, and master students to contribute to developing the next generation of researchers. He was elected to the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) in 2016 and is a C1-rated researcher funded by the National Research Foundation (2017-2022). His research publications focus on epidemiology, vaccination control of infectious diseases, and strengthening immunisation services and policies. He has made numerous contributions to scientific and expert committees. Currently, he has been a member of the Polio Working Group of the WHO Scientific Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) since 2016 and chaired the South African National Task Force (NTF) for Laboratory Containment of Poliovirus (2006-2018). He is a former member of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on COVID-19 vaccines (2020-2022); the South African NITAG (National Advisory Group on Immunisation, i.e., NAGI) (2012-2021); the Committee for Medical Science of the Medical and Dental Professions Board of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (2012-2015); the Clinical Governance Committee of the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) (2009-2014); and the Biological Medicines Committee of the Medicines Control Council (2001-2010). His interest in governance began in 2004 when he joined the South African Veterinary Council [category of non-veterinary representative until 2010]. Since then, he served on various governance bodies. At the national level, he chairs the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF), a broad-based stakeholder body representing over 130 organisational members in six distinct sectors of science, engineering, technology (SET) and innovation in South Africa (November 2022 to date); has been Vice-Chairperson of the NHLS Board (June 2020-October 2024); Advisory Board member of the National Intellectual Property Management Office (NIPMO) (from April 2023); Founding Board member of the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) (2017-2021); and Board of Directors of the Poliomyelitis Research Foundation NPC (2018-2022). Internationally, he served as the Vice-Chair of the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership Association Board (2019 to 2022), Vice-Chair of the Global Research Collaboration for Infectious Disease Preparedness (2015 to 2020), Founding Board Member of the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (2016 to 2018), and Oversight Committee member of the Network for Education and Support in Immunisation at the University of Antwerp, Belgium (2014 to 2019)
Professor Wendy Stevens, MMed (Haem, Wits), FCPath (SA) (Haem, Wits) Executive Director: Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub Strategic Director: National Priority Programs, NHLS Director: ILEAD; Regional Innovation Hub Prior Head: Department of Molecular Medicine and Haematology, Specialist Haematologist H-index: Scopus – 57 / Google Scholar – 73 / ResearchGate - 65 Ranked 9 in microbiology in SA Professor Stevens is a medical doctor, specialist pathologist by profession, who has made significant contributions to the development of capacity for affordable, accessible HIV and TB diagnosis and monitoring in South Africa and over 60 centers in sub-Saharan Africa. Her research activities have included expanding early infant diagnosis of HIV, making HIV viral load and CD4 testing more affordable, and investigating HIV drug resistance. In 2006, she was honored with an award from the National Department of Science and Technology for her contributions to the development of laboratory capacity in Southern Africa, and in 2023 received the SAMRC Gold Scientific Achievement Merit Award in recognition of the excellence of research. Prof Stevens has served as an advisor to and investigator for various HIV research networks, including the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) in New York, the HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) in Seattle (NIH funded), the AIDS Clinical Trials Group (ACTG) (also NIH funded), the Microbicide Development Program (funded in the UK), and the ACTG Pharmacology Scientific Committee, among others. Additionally, she has held investigator status for several internationally funded projects, such as the CIPRA project in collaboration with Professor McIntyre and the team at the University of the Witwatersrand. Her research has received funding from various organizations including the Netherlands AIDS Fund, the Gates Foundation, Grand Challenges Canada, the Global Fund, PEPFAR, CDC, USAID, and the MRC. Prof Stevens has also served as a consultant for the World Health Organization in Geneva, the CDC in Atlanta, and the NIH in Bethesda, USA, on several different working groups. She participates in review committees for UNITAID (WHO) and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Grand Challenges. Since November 2010, Prof Stevens has held the role of Strategic Director of National Priority Programs at the National Health Laboratory Service, focusing on laboratory efforts related to priority diseases such as HIV, TB, and cervical cancer. Her current portfolio includes options for implementation at scale through the National Priority Programme and optimizing the clinic-laboratory chain through innovations for Africa via the African Innovation Network called iLEAD (three centres of excellence across South Africa, Mozambique and Senegal). During the more recent SARs-CoV-2 outbreak, Prof Stevens and her team were responsible for national assay validation of over 256 assays, including molecular, serology, and antigen, antibody-based testing. Prof Stevens founded the Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub in 2022, which encapsulates her foresight in bridging the gap between research and implementation science, aiming to foster innovation, and increasing the access to diagnostics to those that need it the most. Wits DIH provides a platform for innovators, organisations, and vendors to evaluate and validate these technologies, as well as offer guidance on regulatory and implementation frameworks within a real-world setting. The impact of Prof. Stevens's work is also evident in her significant contributions to the literature, with over 500 peer-reviewed manuscripts and book chapters, enriching the global knowledge base on molecular medicine haematology and infectious diseases. Prof. Stevens's distinguished career is not just a series of achievements but a testament to her unwaivering dedication to improving healthcare through innovation, research, implementation science and strong leadership. Her work has not only had a profound impact on the lives of patients in South Africa and beyond but also set a precedent for future generations in the healthcare and research communities. She recently received the SAMRC gold medal for her research.
Professor Elise Schapkaitz was appointed as the Academic affairs and quality assurance (AARQA) executive for the National Health Laboratory Service in April 2025. She previously served as a specialist haematologist at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital for over 20 years. In 2018, she was appointed Associate Professor in the Department of Haematology and Molecular Medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand She holds an MBBCh, MMed, and PhD from the University of the Witwatersrand along with a Fellowship of the College of Pathologists of South Africa in Haematology. Her research contributions are reflected in her publication record, with over 60 peer-reviewed journal articles. Prof. Schapkaitz is dedicated to advancing quality assurance and promoting academic excellence in the field of pathology.
Currently serving as Director: HIV & TB Delivery at the Gates Foundation, Yogan previously held the position of Country Director at Clinton Health Access Initiative in South Africa and Senior Director for universal health coverage. A former Deputy Director-General in the Department of Health, South Africa, responsible for health programs, Yogan obtained a PhD from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and has co-authored two textbooks on global health, co-edited books on mental health & on the South African health system. He has also authored and co-authored over 100 peer-reviewed journal articles. In 2018, Yogan was awarded the Karel Styblo Medallion in recognition of his contributions to TB control efforts, and a certificate of appreciation for leadership in the global fight against TB by KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation. In 2021 he was appointed extraordinary professor by Stellenbosch University’s Department of Health: Health Systems & Public Health.
Prof Tivani Mashamba-Thompson is an internationally trained Molecular Biology Medical Scientist registered by the HPCSA. An NRF C1 rated researcher holding the position of Professor of Diagnostics Research at University of Pretoria. She is also a Founding Director for the Centre for Development and Implementation of Point-of-Care Diagnostics at University of Pretoria.Mashamba-Thompson contributes to the governance of South Africa’s National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) as a non-executive board member, serving as a Chairperson of the NHLS Research and Innovation Committee. She also serves as a Deputy Chairperson of the National Health Research Committee of South Africa. She further extends her expertise as a scientific advisor to Abbott International. Additionally, she holds a position on the external advisory board for Cornell University's PORTENT centre.
I am pleased to invite you to the PathReD Congress 2025, a landmark event where key stakeholders in pathology, research, and diagnostics converge to redefine the future of healthcare. This year's theme is "Bridging the Gap." The NHLS's vision is to be a centre of excellence for innovative laboratory and clinical medicine, and its mission is to be an employee-centred organisation that strives to provide patient-centred services while fostering community health and well-being through innovation, collaboration, and equity. As a hybrid congress offering both in-person and virtual participation, this year's gathering promises to be more dynamic, interactive, and thought-provoking than ever before.
PathReD Congress 2025 is not just a gathering but a pivotal forum where all stakeholders in pathology, research, public health and diagnostics come together to shape the future of medical science. In an era of unprecedented research acceleration, this event is a crucial platform for sharing knowledge and expertise and driving the next frontier of medical science.
This Congress is more than just a meeting of professionals—it is a forge of innovation. Keynote presentations from world-renowned experts enrich the programme, and cutting-edge research showcases insightful workshops and exhibitions from leading institutions. Furthermore, PathReD Congress 2025 will explore topics key to redefining pathology and laboratory medicine today. Most importantly, we continue our unwavering commitment to developing the next generation of scientific leaders, ensuring that young and emerging researchers are equipped with the knowledge and networks to drive change and inspire the future of our field.
Whether you are a seasoned expert pushing the boundaries of discovery or an aspiring scientist eager to learn, PathReD Congress 2025 is where you need to be. It is not just an event but a unique opportunity for collaboration, where you can connect with peers, share knowledge, and witness the future of diagnostic medicine unfold.
Join us. Engage. Innovate. Lead.
Yours sincerely,
Prof. Adrian Puren
Chairperson: PathReD Congress 2025 Scientific Committee
Professor Komala Pillay is the Wernher and Beit Chair and Head of the Division of Anatomical Pathology at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS), Groote Schuur Hospital (GSH) and Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital (RCWMCH) since January 2020. In July 2022, she was appointed as the Head of Department of Pathology at UCT/NHLS comprising eight divisions.
Prof Pillay qualified as a pathologist in 2004 and has specialist qualifications in South Africa (CMSA) and the United Kingdom (RCPath). She was a consultant pathologist at UCT/NHLS since 2005 and practised as the only anatomical pathologist at RCWMCH from 2007-2019 also contributing significantly to research (more than 100 publications) and teaching (undergraduate and postgraduate).
She is the Chair of the Anatomical Pathology Expert Committee (APEC) for the NHLS, President of the College of Pathologists of South Africa (CMSA) and sub-Saharan country advisor for Royal College of Pathologists.
Zivanai Cuthbert Chapanduka MD (Zi) is currently associate professor and head of the division of haematological pathology at Stellenbosch University and National Health Laboratory Service department of haematology in Cape Town South Africa.
He obtained two diplomas in medical laboratory technology and the MBChB degrees from the University of Zimbabwe. He did his specialist haematology training at University of Natal Medical School, graduating FCPath(SA).Haematology in 1995. Zi then worked as a Transfusion Medicine Fellow and Deputy Medical Director at the Natal Blood Transfusion. After 4 years in private pathology practice, he worked abroad in clinical and laboratory haematology, and laboratory administration. He graduated, MBA(Liverpool) in 2008 and worked in the pharmaceutical industry as Medical and Regulatory Director, and Corporate Affairs for South and Sub-Saharan Africa then in Sales and Marketing in the UAE, Oman and Bahrain.
Zi has many research interests. Having started his research career in dietary iron overload, his current research portfolio includes the subjects: Leadership, Management and Administration, Artificial Intelligence in diagnostic pathology, Myeloproliferative Neoplasms, Multiple Myeloma and general laboratory haematology.
Prof Chapanduka is a Trustee and Senator of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa and President of the Federation of South African Societies of Pathology. He sits on several committees of Stellenbosch University and boards of directors of private companies.
Johnny Mahlangu is a full professor of Hematology and academic head of the Department of Molecular Medicine and Hematology in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand and the National Health Laboratory Service. He is also a consultant clinical haematologist in charge of Haematology at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital.
Johnny received his undergraduate and postgraduate training in science and medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand, earning haematology specialist and clinical haematology sub-specialist qualifications through the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa. His primary area of research focuses on novel therapies for bleeding disorders, where he has served as principal investigator for more than 100 international multicenter studies.
He has published over 250 peer-reviewed articles including articles in high-impact journals, such as NEJM, Lancet, Blood, and JTH. He has delivered 600 oral presentations and poster abstracts at both national and international scientific meetings. His academic citizenships include previous and current membership over 40 national and international scientific committees.
He is a recipient of over 30 awards and honours, including the American Society of Haematology Ernest Beutler Prize, European Allied and Haemophilia Disorders (EAHAD) Best Presentation Award, International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) Esteemed Career Award and Research & Practice in Thrombosis and Haemostasis Journal Distinguished Reviewer Award. Johnny is an elected member of the Academy of Science of South Africa and NRF B-rated scientist.
Prof. Wolfgang Preiser is a medical virologist who specialised in his home town Frankfurt, Germany, and at University College London. He received his second doctoral degree (Habilitation) in 2005 while working as a consultant virologist in Frankfurt. Since 2005 Wolfgang Preiser has been Professor and Head of the Division of Medical Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Stellenbosch / National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) Tygerberg.
His principal research interests cover three broad themes: (I) diagnosis of HIV infection and monitoring antiretroviral therapy, from antibody testing to resistance genotyping; (II) the epidemiology, diagnosis and monitoring of opportunistic viral infections, esp. hepatitis B and cytomegalovirus, in immunocompromised patients; and (III) emerging and potentially zoonotic viral diseases. He served as a temporary advisor to the World Health Organization on severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in China in 2003 and led the Frankfurt group who, together with colleagues from Hamburg, were among the first to isolate the SARS-associated coronavirus in spring 2003.
He is heavily involved in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, in charge of one of two public service laboratories for the Western Cape Province and through membership of the South African Ministerial Advisory Committee on COVID-19, the InterAcademy Partnership COVID-19 Expert Group, the COVID-19 Clinical Research Coalition, as well as several other bodies at institutional, provincial, national and international level.
Professor Bavesh Kana directs a research and innovation unit at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. He is a consultant for the Bill and Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute in Cambridge, USA. He obtained his PhD at Wits and has worked in several international institutions including the University of Pennsylvania, the Russian Academy of Sciences in Moscow, Texas A&M University, the Public Health Research Institute in New Jersey and Harvard Medical School. He directed the DSI/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis (TB) Research, a national centre with nodes at Wits, Stellenbosch University and UCT. He also represented South Africa on the BRICS TB Research Network and was an external consultant for the South African Medical Research Council.
He studies TB with a focus on developing new drugs, with a shorter treatment duration and fewer side effects. In this context, he has established several clinical cohorts dedicated to better understanding TB treatment response and TB transmission in the household. His laboratory also focuses on new vaccine development. He has translated his research into products that enable quality assurance and verification of TB and Covid diagnostic devices. This has led to spinout a biotech company and currently, these products are being used in over 50 countries around the world.
He has also translated his research into products that enable quality assurance and verification of tuberculosis diagnostic devices. This has led to spinout a Biotech company and currently, these products are being used in over 50 countries around the world. In 2020, he pivoted this technology to support national diagnosis of Covid-19, through supporting laboratories in the public sector. He created a new series of products that enabled mass testing in South Africa, these have now been rolled out to 34 countries. For these and related activities, his team was awarded the South African National Science and Technology Forum Innovation Award in 2021.
His outstanding contribution to science and the health of people suffering with TB is illustrated by numerous local and international accolades. In recognition for his pioneering approach to research, Prof. Kana was appointed as an Early Career Scientist of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute where he was selected from over 700 applicants from around the world and represented one of only two awards made to the African continent.
He was selected as one of the 200 top young South Africans by the Mail and Guardian newspaper and was also awarded the South African Medical Research Council Scientific Merit Award (Silver and Gold) for outstanding scientific contribution to health research. He received the CEO Titan Award, given to influential men who embody the spirit of excellence and have made meaningful contributions to shift the African landscape towards sustainable growth. For health innovations, his team was awarded the Vice Chancellor’s Innovation Award and the National Science and Technology Forum Innovation Award. Recently, he was awarded the South African National Research Foundation Societal Impact Award, given to a scientist whose work has positively impacted on communities in South Africa and globally.
Dear PathRed Delegate,
As the CEO of the NHLS and Patron of PathReD, I am delighted to welcome you to the 6th PathReD Congress, a flagship event of the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). This year, we proudly continue our overarching theme of Enriching Health Through Research, with a focused emphasis on Bridging the Gap: Pathology in resource-limited settings. This theme underscores our commitment to tackling healthcare inequities and advancing pathology and laboratory medicine in environments where resources are often scarce.
At the NHLS, we are driven by a clear vision: to be a leader in high-quality diagnostic and pathology services, fuelled by innovation, research, and a dedicated commitment to public health. Our mission is steadfast: to provide accessible, equitable, and efficient laboratory services that address the health needs of all South Africans.
As we align with the emerging National Health Insurance framework, we are committed to enhancing our role in ensuring that high-quality diagnostics and pathology services are accessible to all, regardless of their circumstances.
Having said that, one of the three NHLS pillars is research – the lifeblood of progress. The NHLS is wholeheartedly dedicated to cultivating an environment that inspires innovation and drives discovery. This makes PathReD 2025 an excellent opportunity for new researchers to present their work, collaborate with experienced experts, and significantly contribute to the advancement of pathology and laboratory medicine. The NHLS acknowledges the critical importance of fostering the development of the next generation of researchers. To this end, it actively promotes meaningful collaboration between emerging and established scientists, facilitating the creation of effective solutions to urgent public health challenges.
Lest we forget, PathReD is not merely a congress; it is a powerful celebration of the crucial role that pathology and laboratory medicine play in diagnostics, research, and public health. As we gather for this 6th edition, we proudly reflect on our significant strides and the vast opportunities that await us. This event also offers a unique chance for industry partners to engage with the NHLS, explore fruitful collaborations, and gain access to innovative technologies that can revolutionize healthcare delivery.
I am continually inspired by the passion and commitment of all those who contribute to this remarkable event. Together, we will bridge the gap, enrich health through research, and chart a course for a healthier, more equitable future. I invite you to join us in making PathReD 2025 an outstanding success.
We eagerly anticipate an inspiring and productive PathReD 2025!
Warm regards,
Prof Koleka Mlisana
NHLS Chief Executive Officer
Patron of PathReD
Professor Puren has been the Executive Director of the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) since January 2022 and continues as Head of the Centre for HIV and STIs. Prof Adrian Puren was trained and held a lectureship at the University of the Witwatersrand before taking on various positions at the NICD. Adrian was appointed Deputy Director and Head of Virology in 1999 and Head of the Centre for HIV and STIs in 2017.
As head of virology, he focused on developing and implementing various viral diagnostic platforms to support the NICD’s EPI surveillance programs and diagnostic support. Adrian receives various PEPFAR grants focusing on HIV surveillance, HIV case surveillance, and HIV quality assurance and serves as PI/co-Pi/investigator on various surveillance studies. Adrian’s primary interest is developing HIV surveillance programs focusing on HIV incidence and using “big data” to inform surveillance, monitoring, and evaluation.
Adrian heads the regional and national endpoint diagnostics laboratory for HVTN-supported vaccine and antibody-mediated prevention trials. He serves as the quality assurance technical manager for the NICD. In this capacity, he has supported the National Department of Health’s implementation and quality assurance of HIV rapid testing. Adrian serves on various expert bodies, and the most recent is the South African Lancet Commission on High-Quality Health in the era of Sustainable Development Goals.
Professor Puren has been the Executive Director of the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) since January 2022 and continues as Head of the Centre for HIV and STIs. Prof Adrian Puren was trained and held a lectureship at the University of the Witwatersrand before taking on various positions at the NICD. Adrian was appointed Deputy Director and Head of Virology in 1999 and Head of the Centre for HIV and STIs in 2017.
As head of virology, he focused on developing and implementing various viral diagnostic platforms to support the NICD’s EPI surveillance programs and diagnostic support. Adrian receives various PEPFAR grants focusing on HIV surveillance, HIV case surveillance, and HIV quality assurance and serves as PI/co-Pi/investigator on various surveillance studies. Adrian’s primary interest is developing HIV surveillance programs focusing on HIV incidence and using “big data” to inform surveillance, monitoring, and evaluation.
Adrian heads the regional and national endpoint diagnostics laboratory for HVTN-supported vaccine and antibody-mediated prevention trials. He serves as the quality assurance technical manager for the NICD. In this capacity, he has supported the National Department of Health’s implementation and quality assurance of HIV rapid testing. Adrian serves on various expert bodies, and the most recent is the South African Lancet Commission on High-Quality Health in the era of Sustainable Development Goals.
Professor Koleka Mlisana is the Chief Executive Officer of the NHLS. Before her appointment she served as the Executive Manager: Academic Affairs, Research & Quality Assurance at the NHLS, from July 2018 to April 2024. Prior to this, she was the Head of Dept of Medical Microbiology at UKZN/IALCH. Her over 20year period of research and academia was spent in HIV pathogenesis and prevention research as well as sexually transmitted infections and genital inflammation research at the Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA); as Head of Microbiology, Prof Mlisana broadened her research to include TB diagnostics; drug resistant TB; antimicrobial resistance and recently COVID-19 related research.
She has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and has mentored numerous young scientists. She has supervised many Master’s and PhD students and trained numerous registrars in medical microbiology.
Prof Mlisana has been a member of various Boards including Medical and Dental Board of the HPCSA (current); SA MRC; SANAC and NHLS. She has served on the Ministerial Advisory Committee (MAC) on Antimicrobial Resistance and recently co-chaired the MAC on COVID-19. She is a member of the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf).
Prof Nisha Naicker is the Head of Epidemiology and Surveillance at the National Institute for Occupational Health. She also holds the honorary positions of Associate Professor at the School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand and Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health at the Department of Environmental Health, University of Johannesburg.
At the NHLS, we are driven by a clear vision: to be a leader in high-quality diagnostic and pathology services, fuelled by innovation, research, and a dedicated commitment to public health. Our mission is steadfast: to provide accessible, equitable, and efficient laboratory services that address the health needs of all South Africans.
She is a medical doctor that has specialised in Public Health Medicine and received her PhD in public health from the University of Witwatersrand in 2012. Since then, her research has focused on Environmental and Occupational Health as well as surveillance systems for occupational exposures and health outcomes. She has authored and co-authored over 80 peer reviewed publications and supervised over 50 post graduate students. She has served as a reviewer for national and international journals and is an academic editor for public health journals such as BMC Public Health.
