LSE HE Blog Fellow Amy Paterson talks to two leading academics and surgeons from African medical schools about global health equity and the new generation of African medical education institutions
In this podcast I delve into the issue of health equity and the transformative potential of African medical education institutions. I’m joined by two prominent figures in the field: Professor Abebe Bekele, Dean of the School of Medicine at the University of Global Health Equity in Rwanda, and Professor Salome Maswime, Head of Global Surgery at the University of Cape Town in South Africa.
Together, we explore the evolving dynamics of global health partnerships, and the vital role of equitable, sustainable collaborations in addressing healthcare disparities. Listen in for an insightful discussion on the challenges and opportunities in advancing health equity through higher education and global cooperation.

This podcast features discussions on the following topics:
01:30 Guests’ motivations for working in the field of medical education
05:20 How power dynamics have changed since each guest started in the field and what still needs to change
09:27 The place of high-income institutions in achieving health equity in African contexts
18:34 The ideal balance between teaching and research in medical education institutions
26:53 Community engagement as a key pillar for universities
32:12 Opinions on graduates moving abroad for further training
41:43 The unique strengths of African-based medical institutions and what they are uniquely capable of contributing to global health for all
Listen to the podcast
Show notes
- Find out more details about the Paul Farmer collaborative mentioned in this episode
- Find out more about Professor Maswime and a Lancet profile feature on her influential leadership.
- Find out more about Professor Abebe Bekele and read about his recent recognition through the 2024 Consortium of Universities for Global Health’s Distinguished Leadership.
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This post is opinion-based and does not reflect the views of the London School of Economics and Political Science or any of its constituent departments and divisions.
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Main image: Anne Nygård on Unsplash