SJD1501
ASSIGNMENT 6 (SEMESTER 1)
DUE DATE: 15 May 2024
Written Assignment Submission Guidelines:
Please ensure that your assignment is submitted electronically through the myUnisa platform no
later than 15 May 2024. Kindly note that fax or email submissions will not be accepted.
NB: Assignment submitted to the lecturer(s) through email will not be considered.
QUESTIONS:
1. What would you say to those who believe Africa lacks expertise in responding to pandemics?
(200 words) 5 Marks
ANSWER:
To those who believe Africa lacks expertise in responding to pandemics, I would emphasize the
significant strides that African countries have made in dealing with health crises and the
expertise that exists within the continent's healthcare systems.
Firstly, Africa has faced and successfully managed several pandemics and health emergencies in
the past, including Ebola, HIV/AIDS, and cholera outbreaks. These experiences have led to the
development of robust public health systems, trained healthcare professionals, and established
protocols for disease surveillance and response.
Secondly, African scientists and researchers have made substantial contributions to global
health research and innovation. Institutions and organizations across the continent are actively
engaged in vaccine development, epidemiological studies, and public health initiatives. For
example, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) plays a crucial role
ASSIGNMENT 6 (SEMESTER 1)
DUE DATE: 15 May 2024
Written Assignment Submission Guidelines:
Please ensure that your assignment is submitted electronically through the myUnisa platform no
later than 15 May 2024. Kindly note that fax or email submissions will not be accepted.
NB: Assignment submitted to the lecturer(s) through email will not be considered.
QUESTIONS:
1. What would you say to those who believe Africa lacks expertise in responding to pandemics?
(200 words) 5 Marks
ANSWER:
To those who believe Africa lacks expertise in responding to pandemics, I would emphasize the
significant strides that African countries have made in dealing with health crises and the
expertise that exists within the continent's healthcare systems.
Firstly, Africa has faced and successfully managed several pandemics and health emergencies in
the past, including Ebola, HIV/AIDS, and cholera outbreaks. These experiences have led to the
development of robust public health systems, trained healthcare professionals, and established
protocols for disease surveillance and response.
Secondly, African scientists and researchers have made substantial contributions to global
health research and innovation. Institutions and organizations across the continent are actively
engaged in vaccine development, epidemiological studies, and public health initiatives. For
example, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) plays a crucial role
