Eman Elafef is a 31-year-old Sudanese pharmacist with postgraduate studies in public health. She has a strong interest in addressing diseases at a population level, particularly infectious diseases and their long-term complications. As someone who has experienced the effects of infectious diseases first-hand, having suffered from Acute Flaccid Paralysis due to polio, she aspires to play a significant role in preventing such diseases in the future.
1. Can you tell us a bit about your background and what attracted you to the MENA Migrant Health project?
As a pharmacist with a master’s degree in public health, I have developed a strong interest in research, particularly at the population level. The MENA Migrant Health project presents an exciting opportunity for me to further explore this area of interest. I am attracted to this project because it offers a platform to contribute to the improvement of migrant health, an issue that I am deeply passionate about.
2. Your research focuses on malaria and neglected tropical diseases among migrants. What sparked your interest in this area?
My interest in malaria and neglected tropical diseases among migrants stems from my background in public health and my experiences as a pharmacist. I have witnessed first-hand the impact of these diseases, especially among vulnerable populations such as migrants. This has sparked my passion to address these health disparities and work towards finding solutions to improve the health outcomes of migrant populations affected by these diseases. I am committed to contributing to research and initiatives that aim to alleviate the burden of malaria and neglected tropical diseases among migrants.
3. Pursuing a PhD in a country in conflict must be very demanding. Could you share with us some of the challenges you’ve encountered and the consequences this entailed on your academic journey?
We started our PhD with the MENA Migrants project in a stable situation. Unfortunately, after four months, conflict broke out and everything changed within days. We lost internet connection for several days, had no electricity, and were unable to continue our work at Gezira University. We lost the ability to communicate with our supervisor and post in weekly meetings. There were no opportunities to do fieldwork. However, the MENA Migrant Health project gave us another chance to continue, and we relocated to Egypt after a four-day journey to Cairo. We are now able to continue as refugees. I think we have become part of the migrant population, and we now understand the migrant situation and the importance of migrant health.
4. Could you explain to us how your research will contribute to the MENA Migrant Health project?
My research on malaria and neglected tropical diseases among migrants will contribute to the MENA Migrant Health project in several ways. Firstly, it will provide valuable insights into the prevalence, risk factors, and impact of these diseases within migrant populations in the MENA region. This data will help in developing targeted interventions and healthcare strategies to address the specific health needs of migrants. Additionally, my research aims to identify potential barriers to accessing healthcare and preventive measures for these diseases among migrants, which will inform policy recommendations and program implementation within the MENA Migrant Health project. Overall, my research will contribute to a better understanding of the health challenges faced by migrants in the region and support the development of evidence-based interventions to improve their health outcomes.
5. You are part of an early career researchers network called My-MENA EMCR-Network. What does it mean for you?
Being part of the My-MENA EMCR-Network holds significant value for me as an early career researcher. It provides a platform for networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange with fellow researchers. This network offers opportunities for mentorship, skill development, and access to resources that are crucial for advancing my research career. Additionally, being part of this network allows me to contribute to the research community in the region and stay updated on the latest developments in my field. Overall, it provides a supportive and enriching environment that empowers me to grow as a researcher and make meaningful contributions to the scientific community in the MENA region.
6. What do you hope to achieve personally and professionally through the completion of your PhD?
I hope to achieve several personal and professional goals. Personally, I aim to deepen my knowledge and expertise in my research area, gaining a thorough understanding of the subject matter. I also aspire to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and resilience, which are essential for conducting high-quality research.
Professionally, I aim to establish myself as an expert in my field, contributing valuable insights and making meaningful contributions to the academic community. I hope to pursue a career in research or academia, where I can continue to explore new ideas, mentor students, and advance the understanding of my research area. Additionally, I aim to contribute to the development of innovative solutions and strategies that can address real-world challenges in healthcare, ultimately making a positive impact on public health.
Overall, the completion of my PhD represents a significant step towards achieving my personal and professional aspirations, allowing me to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the improvement of healthcare practices.
7. How do you envision the future of the MENA Migrant Health project and its role in improving migrant health in the region?
The project can develop and implement tailored health interventions that address the specific needs of migrant populations, considering factors such as cultural backgrounds, language barriers, and socioeconomic circumstances. These interventions may focus on addressing prevalent diseases, providing mental health support, and promoting healthy lifestyles. The project can also advocate for policies that protect the health and rights of migrants, ensuring that they are not marginalized or excluded from essential healthcare services. This may involve collaborating with governmental and non-governmental organizations to influence policies related to migrant health, immigration, and social welfare.
