Ethics in Health Research

What We Cover

In accordance with the 2024 South African (SA) Ethics in Health Research Guidelines (3rd edition), it is mandatory for all researchers, including students, to complete theoretical training in research ethics. This training must be based on the National Department of Health (NDoH) 2024 3rd edition guidelines before beginning any research activities.

The Afrileadtech School of Clinical Research offers a comprehensive 8-hour training program designed to ensure that all clinical research professionals, academic researchers, and students conducting studies involving human data are fully compliant with ethical standards in health research. 

Learning process

All course content is delivered through an interactive Learning Management System (LMS), allowing learners to engage with materials at their own pace and convenience.In addition to online learning via the LMS, Afrileadtech also offers alternative formats for course delivery. Learners have the option to request face-to-face or virtual learning sessions, which can be arranged based on individual or organisational needs. These options ensure flexibility and accessibility, accommodating different learning preferences and schedules.

Course highlights:

Historical Foundations and Key Updates in Research Ethics

A series of important historical events have shaped the development of ethical guidelines in health research. These events highlighted the need for clear principles to protect research participants and promote responsible conduct in scientific studies. The lessons learned from the past continue to influence current standards and practices.

Ethical principles

The establishment of ethical guidelines was built upon foundational principles that emphasise respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. These principles serve as the cornerstone for responsible research, ensuring the rights, well-being, and dignity of participants are prioritized in all research activities.

Updated Declaration of Helsinki

The Declaration of Helsinki, a critical document in the history of research ethics, has been updated over time to address emerging ethical challenges and reflect contemporary standards. These updates ensure that the ethical review and conduct of research remain relevant and rigorous amid evolving medical and scientific advancements.

Updated NDoH Ethics in Health Research, 3rd Edition

The latest edition of the National Department of Health (NDoH) Ethics in Health Research Guidelines, now in its third edition, incorporates recent developments and best practices in research ethics. This update reinforces the commitment to ethical research in South Africa and provides comprehensive guidance for all researchers, including students, to ensure compliance and uphold high ethical standards.

Accreditation & Certification

Training cost

The cost of the training is R1,500.

Accreditation

Upon successful completion of the training, participants will earn 8 CPD ethics points accredited by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

Assessment

To receive certification, participants must achieve a minimum pass mark of 80% in the final assessment.

Registration

To secure a place in the training, participants must complete the order and registration process via the designated registration link

The training is delivered by Dr Nyeleti Bicky Mthombeni (PhD), an HPCSA-accredited trainer. Dr Mthombeni brings over 18 years of experience in clinical research and has more than ten years of expertise in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) content development and training.