The Ministry of Health has commenced a three-day orientation program aimed at equipping members of the newly appointed National Ethics Committee with essential knowledge and skills to effectively oversee research ethics in Botswana. The training, facilitated in collaboration with Leselo Consultancy, is being held to build capacity in the review and appraisal of research protocols and to familiarize members with both national and international ethical guidelines.
During the official opening of the program, Dr. Patrick Masokwane, Director of the Health Inspectorate and outgoing Chairman of the National Ethics Committee, highlighted the critical role the committee plays in upholding ethical standards in research. He emphasized that the orientation has been carefully structured to provide participants with the tools, knowledge, and contextual understanding necessary to fulfill their roles with integrity and responsibility.
Dr. Masokwane noted that decisions made by the committee will have a lasting impact on how research is conducted, not only within Botswana but potentially beyond its borders. He underscored the importance of ensuring that all research activities align with fundamental ethical principles, protect the rights and welfare of participants, and adhere to both national laws and international standards.
The training sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including ethical considerations in biomedical and social science research, informed consent, confidentiality, risk-benefit analysis, and the role of ethics committees in safeguarding human dignity. By the end of the program, committee members are expected to be well-prepared to review research proposals with a deep understanding of ethical frameworks and regulatory expectations.
This initiative is part of the Ministry of Health’s broader commitment to strengthening ethical governance in research, ensuring that Botswana continues to foster a research environment rooted in accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights.
