CoGSAYR Summit 2026 | Day 1 Highlights

Описание: Day 1 of the CoGSAYR Summit 2026 marked the opening of continental conversations on genomics, bioinformatics, health systems, and the role of students and early-career researchers in shaping Africa's genomic future.

From keynote reflections to high-level discussions, the first day set the tone for the summit, grounding ambitious ideas in lived realities and interdisciplinary thinking. Participants engaged with questions of capacity, collaboration, data, policy, preparedness and the need for equitable science.

This highlight video captures key moments from the opening day: the atmosphere, the ideas and the people driving the work forward.

About CoGSAYR
The Consortium of Genomics Students and Young Researchers in Africa (CoGSAYR) is an organization established to encourage enthusiasm and involvement among young medical professionals in genomic research. Recognizing the critical need to address the gap in African genomic data, CoGSAYR aims to create a collaborative platform that empowers the next generation of scientists and clinicians to significantly contribute to genomic research in the African context.

Sessions for Day 1
A. Opening address & Introduction to CoGSAYR
Dr Gladys Ibrahim (Executive Director, CoGSAYR Africa)
Dr Ridwanullah Abdullateef (Deputy Executive Director, CoGSAYR Africa)


B. Keynote address on "Empowering the Next Generation of Genomics Researchers in Africa" by
Prof Christian Happi, Distinguished Professor of Molecular Biology & Genomics, & Director, Institute of Genomics & Global Health, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Nigeria.

C. Panel discussion on "Building Genomic Competency in Africa: Role of Young Researchers and Important Stakeholders" with:
1. Prof. Azeez Butali, Professor, Iowa Institute of Human Genetics, & Gilbert Lily Endowed Professor of Diagnostic Sciences, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, USA
2. Prof. Oluyemi Akinloye, Professor of Clinical Chemistry & Director, Centre for Genomics of Non-Communicable Diseases and Personalised Healthcare, University of Lagos, Nigeria
3.

Prof. Onikepe Folarin, Professor of Molecular Biology & Genomics, Institute of Genomics and Global Health, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Nigeria

D. Spotlight talk on "Genomic Insights into Africa’s Most Prevalent Neurological Conditions: Where We Are and Where We Need to Be" by
Prof. Rufus Akinyemi, Professor of Geriatric Neurology & Translational Neuroscience; Director, Biomedical Research Centre, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.


E. Spotlight talk on "Genomic Insights into Africa’s Most Prevalent Cancers" by Prof. Solomon Rotimi, Professor & Head of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Nigeria.


F. Spotlight talk on "Diet, Nutrition, and Epigenetics in African Populations" by Prof. Olukemi Amodu, Professor of Genetics, Public Health, and Biotechnology; Director, Institute of Child Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.