Healthcare and medical imaging in Uganda has faced significant challenges, particularly in accessing advanced technologies like MRI. This is mainly due to a combination of limited skilled labor to operate such technology and affordability issues associated with purchase and maintenance of these crucial devices. These challenges significantly impact the quality and scope of healthcare services available to the population. My name is Ssentamu Tonny, join me as I take you through my journey with SMART Africa Network.
Reflecting on my journey with the SMART Africa Network, I am filled with a surge of gratitude and inspiration for the transformative experiences it has offered me. My journey commenced after completing my undergraduate studies, a period marked by a deep thirst for knowledge and opportunity.
Figure 1: 1st Sub-Saharan SMART Africa Low-field Workshop
In September 2022, I learnt about an extraordinary opportunity—the 1st Sub-Saharan Low-field MRI workshop organized by Strengthening MRI Access, Research and Training in (SMART) Africa Network, funded by Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) and led by Prof Godwin Ogbole, to be held at Mbarara University in Uganda. This workshop was a beacon of hope for someone like me, who had been denied access to MRI technology despite a fervent passion for medical imaging. I was motivated to apply with the hope of unraveling the mysteries behind MRI's inaccessibility.
Attending the workshop was a pivotal moment in my life. Surrounded by experts and visionaries like Prof. Sairam Geethanath, I was introduced to the world of low-field MRI and its potential to revolutionize accessibility in healthcare. Prof. Geethanath's work, particularly his use of Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ML) to address MRI limitations, sparked a fire within me bringing a realization that research was my true calling.
With new-found determination, I, along with my colleagues, developed a research proposal to address Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) challenges associated with low-field MRI. We were fortunate to receive a seed grant from SMART Africa Network through the CZI initiative, propelling our research forward. Prof. Geethanath's mentorship was invaluable, guiding us to redefine our project and collaborate effectively.
Our project, "Denoising very low-field MR images using native noise modeling and deep learning," aim to enhance MRI accessibility by overcoming SNR limitations. With the generous support from SMART Africa Network, through their Mentor/mentee Pilot project Grant Program, I had the privilege to present our research at the Inaugural Conference of the Africa Chapter of the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM) in September 2023 at Accra, Ghana, providing a platform to showcase our work and engage with experts in the field. Subsequently, through the educational stipend provided by ISMRM, awarded upon acceptance of my submitted abstract, I was able to participate in the Accessible MR Workshop in India, where I immersed myself in the latest advancements and collaborated with like-minded individuals passionate about improving healthcare accessibility. Furthermore, recently through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation program courtesy of Anne-Maria Kahrovic, the Executive Director of ISMRM, I was given opportunity to attend the Unit meeting and ISMRM conference in Singapore. This opportunity enabled me present my digital poster at the conference and also availed me an opportunity to meet and interact with global key players in MR field. With all this exposure, insights and experiences gained from these conferences, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities afforded to me by SMART Africa Network, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and ISMRM.
Figure 2 my presentation at the ISMRM-African Chapter conference in Ghana.
Figure 3: My presentation at the 2nd workshop on Assessible MRI
Figure 4: Singapore experience and digital presentation
These experiences were not just about showcasing our work but also about learning and growth. Interacting with experts and open-minded people like Joshua Ametepe, Francesco Padormo, Derek Jones and Andrew Webb not only deepened my passion for MRI and affirmed my decision to pursue further academic research but also reinforced my commitment to driving positive change through MRI research
As I prepare to embark on the next phase of my journey, “Grad School,” I am filled with gratitude for the support and mentorship I received from Prof. Geethanath, Prof. Ogbole Godwin, and Dr. Johnes Obungoloch. The initiative to promote research in Africa, particularly in MRI, holds immense promise for improving healthcare outcomes.
My journey with SMART Africa Network has been nothing short of enlightenment and transformation. It has reinforced my belief in the power of research to drive meaningful change and opened doors to a future filled with endless possibilities. I am excited to continue this journey, fuelled by passion and purpose, as I strive to make a lasting impact in the field of medical imaging.
Looking ahead, One of my Wish-list for Uganda's healthcare, particularly the medical imaging sector, includes establishing specialized training programs and international partnerships to enhance professionals' skills in MRI and other imaging tools. Additionally, increased investment in research and development will encourage local innovation, addressing Uganda's unique healthcare challenges and improving overall outcomes.
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