Zetech University’s Africa Centre for Data Analytics and Modelling (ACDAM) recently hosted a distinguished delegation from New York University (NYU) and Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital (MNTRTH), marking a significant step toward strengthening collaborative research in population health, mental health, and advanced data-driven innovation.
Among the honoured guests was Prof. Anna Bershteyn, Associate Professor in the Department of Population Health at the New York University Grossman School of Medicine and Director of the Policy Modelling Initiative. Prof. Bershteyn is globally recognised for her groundbreaking work in biodegradable systems with adaptable surface chemistry, innovations that have advanced vaccine immunology research, particularly in the context of HIV. She was accompanied by David Kaftan, a Research Assistant at New York University Grossman School of Medicine, and Dr. Peris Wambui from the Ministry of Health, Department of Mental Health, who leads the Research and Knowledge Management Department at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital.
The visit served as a platform for high-level engagement on shared priorities. Key highlights of the discussions included:
1. Exploring New Funding Pathways
The delegation examined ongoing and upcoming funding opportunities in HIV and mental health research. The teams identified targeted grant calls, strategic funding mechanisms, and potential joint applications that could drive impactful multi-institutional research projects.
2. Strengthening Mental Health Data Capacity
A core outcome of the meeting was the establishment of a strategic collaboration between Zetech University (ZU), NYU, and MNTRTH. This partnership will focus on building capacity in mental health data management, analysis, and the effective use of data to influence policy and clinical practice.
3. Advancing Mathematical Modelling Research
The teams explored opportunities to deepen research in mathematical modelling of HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This aligns with ACDAM’s mission to develop evidence-based insights that can guide public health interventions across Kenya and the broader African region.
4. Integrating Precision AI into Medical Training
The delegation also discussed the potential of Precision Artificial Intelligence in medicine, both as a research frontier and an academic innovation. A key area of interest was the incorporation of Precision AI concepts into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing curriculum, positioning Zetech University as a forward-thinking institution in health education.
The collaborative discussions held during the visit underscore Zetech University’s growing role as a hub for global research partnerships and innovation in data-driven health solutions. Strengthened ties with institutions like NYU and MNTRTH will accelerate impactful research, enhance academic training, and contribute to improved health outcomes locally and globally.
Zetech University remains committed to fostering transformative collaborations that shape the future of healthcare, research, and advanced data analytics. Did you know that Zetech University now offers Bachelor of Science in Nursing?
Explore the programme: https://www.zetech.ac.ke/index.php/academics/programmes/degree-programmes/ bachelor-of-science-in-nursing-bsc-n