Training and Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE Malawi), Malawi

Introduction to TRUE Malawi

The Training and Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE) is Malawi’s premier independent research institution, specializing in high-quality research on health challenges such as infectious diseases, malaria, and nutrition. Established with the vision of generating innovative solutions for both local and regional health issues, TRUE aims to be the leading research institution in Malawi and throughout Southern Africa. TRUE focuses on advancing scientific knowledge, fostering innovation, and building a sustainable community of research scientists dedicated to improving global health.

History and Vision of TRUE Malawi

Founding and Vision

As one of the newest research entities in Malawi, TRUE was established to address priority health challenges—both current and emerging. The institution aims to lead the way in generating out-of-the-box solutions through rigorous and impactful research. Guided by a vision to become a regional leader in research excellence, TRUE’s mission is to foster knowledge through innovative approaches, addressing local and global health challenges, and nurturing a sustainable network of research scientists.

Developing a Sustainable Research Network

TRUE is not just an institution; it’s a community dedicated to knowledge-sharing and scientific advancement. The institution collaborates with local and international partners, contributing significantly to scientific progress in infectious diseases, malaria, and nutrition, while developing research capacities at both junior and senior levels.

Areas of Specialization and Research

Clinical and Biomedical Research

TRUE Malawi stands at the forefront of clinical and biomedical research, focusing on areas such as malaria, anemia, and other pressing health concerns in Malawi and beyond. The research center places a particular emphasis on vulnerable populations, including children and pregnant women, conducting studies that have the potential to influence health policies and practices both regionally and globally.

Key Research Areas

• Malaria Research: TRUE conducts cutting-edge research on malaria, covering topics such as prevention, treatment, and the long-term effects on populations at risk.
• Anemia Studies: Focused on children and pregnant women, TRUE aims to identify causes, develop interventions, and assess the outcomes of anemia to improve health outcomes.
• Nutritional Research: With a focus on both maternal and child health, TRUE conducts studies on the impact of nutrition on growth, development, and disease prevention.

Training and Capacity Building

In addition to research, TRUE offers short courses and programs on a regular basis, aimed at building the skills and knowledge of emerging and established scientists. These programs foster the development of research capabilities within Malawi and provide opportunities for continuous learning in various health and research topics.

Strategic Approach

Leveraging Experience and Leadership

TRUE Malawi’s strategic approach to research is founded on a combined experience of over 50 years in the fields of research, administration, and institutional leadership. This experience forms the foundation of TRUE’s strategy to become a key driver of health research and innovation in the region.

Key Strategic Elements

• Non-Profit Research Entity: TRUE operates as a legally established non-profit organization, dedicated to conducting impactful research without commercial influences.
• Robust Grant Management: The institution has developed a grant management structure designed to effectively handle all pre- and post-award obligations, ensuring the efficient and ethical implementation of research projects.
• Transparent Governance: TRUE is governed by a transparent and engaged system with independent oversight. This governance model guarantees research integrity, financial accountability, and ensures adherence to ethical standards.
• Geographic Presence and Partnerships: With five established research units across Southern Malawi, TRUE maintains an active presence in various health facilities. This enables the institution to conduct eight ongoing studies, with several more planned for the future.
• Collaborative Networks: TRUE has cultivated strategic, sustainable, and mutually beneficial relationships with local health facilities, as well as national and international policy stakeholders, to promote research uptake and policy influence.

Achievements and Impactful Studies

TRUE Malawi’s contributions to health research are exemplified through its key achievements in advancing knowledge on malaria, maternal health, and child development. Some of the impactful studies and projects led by TRUE include:

1. Majete Malaria Project

A community-based initiative, the Majete Malaria Project seeks to understand and control malaria transmission in the Majete region of Malawi. This project has played a significant role in enhancing local understanding of malaria dynamics and promoting effective malaria prevention strategies.

2. Post-Discharge Malaria Chemoprevention (PMC) Studies

The PMC Studies focus on developing strategies to prevent malaria in children who have been recently discharged from healthcare facilities. These studies are crucial in reducing the risk of recurrent malaria and improving child survival rates.

3. Malaria in Pregnancy Trials – IMPROVE

The IMPROVE trial investigates the impact of malaria on pregnant women and their babies. By focusing on malaria prevention and treatment during pregnancy, TRUE aims to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce the risk of complications related to malaria.

4. Iron Supplementation in Pregnancy – REVAMP Trial

The REVAMP trial addresses iron supplementation during pregnancy, assessing the benefits and potential risks associated with this common intervention. This research is critical for understanding how to best support the health of pregnant women and their developing babies.

5. Iron Supplementation in Infants & Child Development – IRMA Trial

The IRMA trial explores the effects of iron supplementation on infant development and health. The outcomes of this study have implications for nutrition policies and interventions aimed at supporting early childhood development and reducing anemia.

6. Malaria Chemoprevention in Sickle Cell Disease

TRUE’s research on malaria chemoprevention in children with sickle cell disease addresses the heightened vulnerability of this population to malaria. The study seeks to identify effective prevention strategies, improving the health outcomes for children with this genetic condition.

TRUE Malawi’s Collaborative Approach

Local and International Partnerships

TRUE is committed to fostering collaboration with both local and international partners, recognizing that the global health challenges require a cooperative approach. Partnerships with policy stakeholders, healthcare providers, and academic institutions ensure that TRUE’s research is not only scientifically sound but also has real-world applicability and impact.

Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing

TRUE is actively involved in building a network of researchers and practitioners who are equipped to tackle emerging health challenges. Through mentorship, training programs, and collaborations, TRUE invests in the development of both junior and senior researchers, enhancing Malawi’s capacity for health research and innovation.

Future Goals and Outlook

TRUE Malawi is dedicated to maintaining its leadership in health research, focusing on expanding its research portfolio and building stronger collaborative networks. The institution aims to:

• Expand Research Units: Establish additional research units across Malawi and the Southern Africa region to increase research capacity.
• Innovative Health Solutions: Generate innovative solutions to emerging health challenges, with a focus on interventions that are both effective and scalable.
• Nurture Research Talent: Continue to support the development of research talent in Malawi and beyond, creating a sustainable community of health researchers who are capable of addressing global health issues.

Conclusion

The Training and Research Unit of Excellence (TRUE) stands as a beacon of health research and innovation in Malawi and the broader region. By focusing on critical health challenges like malaria, anemia, and nutrition, and through its commitment to high-quality research, training, and capacity building, TRUE is shaping a future where health policies and interventions are informed by sound science and local expertise.

With its dedication to fostering partnerships, maintaining transparent governance, and nurturing a new generation of research scientists, TRUE Malawi is well-positioned to continue making significant contributions to global health and to uphold its vision of becoming a leading research institution in the region.

For more information about TRUE and its work, you can visit their official channels:

• Website: https://true.mw
• Twitter: @truecom1
• MESA Malaria: TRUE on MESA Malaria
• Nature Index Profile: Nature Index – TRUE Malawi
• LinkedIn: TRUE Malawi on LinkedIn