In the latest episode of Trailblazers with Garry, Garry Aslanyan visits Accra, Ghana, to speak with Professor John Owusu Gyapong, Secretary General of the African Research Universities Alliance.

Gyapong took on the role in 2024, leading efforts to strengthen research collaboration across African universities. His work focusses on building capacity within the continent and supporting locally driven research agendas.

Earlier in his career, when much of global health funding and attention centred on malaria, Gyapong chose to study neglected tropical diseases. These illnesses, he explains, had major social and economic consequences but received far less attention.

Now, as a researcher and educator, Gyapong continues to emphasise the importance of African-led solutions and long-term investment in young scientists. The conversation touches on leadership, research priorities, and why universities play a critical role in shaping Africa’s health future.

Watch the full episode:

Trailblazers with Garry is part of Global Health Matters. Listen to more Global Health Matters shows on Health Policy Watch.

Image Credits: Global Health Matters Podcast.