High Engagement Among Participants in Second Global Gene Therapy Training

ASGCT partnered with Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) to run the second Global Gene Therapy Training course last fall. The free certificate-awarding course equipped faculty in sub-Saharan Africa with the necessary knowledge and skills to educate students on the advances in gene therapy. The course was offered as part of ASGCT’s goal to provide global audiences with accurate and up-to-date information through educational and training programs that increase awareness and understanding of gene and cell therapy innovations and applications. Most participants said that their main motivation to take this course was the opportunity to increase their knowledge.

At the conclusion of the course, certificates were awarded to 50 participants from 11 countries. Each of the eight classes included a formal presentation by a member of the ASGCT Global Outreach Committee followed by a moderated discussion where attendees were encouraged to ask questions. The course covered the following topics:

• Genetics of human disorders  

• Gene therapy overview parts 1&2 

• Methods for correcting genetic diseases  

• Current status of clinical gene therapy  

• Use of gene therapy in cancer treatment  

• Ethical issues, regulatory challenges, and the role of patient advocacy groups and international partnerships in implementing gene therapies.  

• How to initiate a clinical trial 

Participants overwhelmingly found the course educational, insightful, and well-delivered. Nearly 100% of participants surveyed said they would attend another course offered by ASGCT. Engagement with instructors and between participants was high, with an average of 12 questions asked in each class. ASGCT is proud to partner with local universities like MUHAS and plans to run the third annual online Global Gene Therapy Training in June 2024.  

Dr. Rao is chair of ASGCT's Global Outreach Committee.

Related Articles