Hassan Edries, from Sudan, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and a Master’s degree in Integrated Control of Communicable Diseases. He has gained experience working with the Expanded Programme on Immunisation at the Ministry of Health and the KalaCORE Entomology Project, where he focused on visceral leishmaniasis vector control in East Africa. He has also contributed to capacity building and research in the Communicable Disease Control Directorate, particularly within the National Malaria Control Programme of the Federal Ministry of Health.
1. Can you tell us a bit about your background and what attracted you to the MENA Migrant Health project?
As a public health professional, I was attracted by the opportunity to contribute to improving the lives of migrants, increasing access to health care and reducing health inequalities in the MENA region. Through research, advocacy and policy recommendations, this project aims to improve health systems and ensure that the rights and well-being of migrants are respected.
2. Your research focuses on HIV and Viral hepatitis among migrants. What sparked your interest in this area? And how will it contribute to the project?
HIV and viral hepatitis are major health challenges for migrants. Understanding the prevalence of these infections among migrant populations is crucial to understanding their overall impact in the MENA region. By focusing on migrants, researchers can identify gaps in access to healthcare and propose effective strategies to address them. The different epidemiological profiles of migrants, influenced by differences in prevalence in their countries of origin, offer valuable insights. Understanding these differences can shape regional health policies and improve prevention efforts. In addition, such research helps to identify the challenges migrants face in accessing health care, enabling the development of interventions to provide equitable and culturally sensitive care.
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?
The main challenge is security. Conflict zones are volatile and dangerous, posing risks to personal safety and leading to violence, lack of infrastructure and barriers that limit access to educational resources and hinder research activities. In addition, the lack of internet has sometimes led to a lack of communication with my family.
4. You are part of an early career researchers network called My-MENA EMCR-Network. What does it mean for you?
The My-MENA EMCR-Network offers opportunities for professional development, research collaboration and mentorship. Early career researchers can benefit from workshops, conferences and seminars tailored to their needs to enhance their skills and expand their research networks, while peer support enables the exchange of experiences, advice and motivation. It also provides a regional perspective, offering insights into research trends, funding opportunities and career paths specific to the MENA region.
5. What do you hope to achieve personally and professionally through the completion of your PhD?
On a personal level, it would give me a sense of personal satisfaction and fulfilment. A PhD is a significant achievement, demonstrating perseverance, dedication, and a high level of academic achievement.
Professionally, a PhD can open doors to higher-level opportunities in academia, research, or leadership positions. It also allows individuals to contribute new knowledge and insights to their field through research, make valuable connections with other professionals, and enhance their professional reputation and credibility.
6. How do you envision the future of the MENA Migrant Health project and its role in improving migrant health in the region?
The MENA Migrant Health project can influence policy at the national level by advocating for the inclusion of migrant health in agendas and the implementation of specific policies to address the unique challenges faced by migrants. The project will promote collaboration between different health systems, sharing best practices and coordinating efforts to ensure that migrant populations receive appropriate care. In addition, it can empower migrant communities with knowledge and organise health campaigns and workshops.
