03/06/2026
In describing the important role of the African Simulation Network, Dr Marvin Jansen sums up perfectly a key aspect of the founding rationale behind the African Paediatric Fellowship Programme at the University of Cape Town. So beautifully said, Marvin Jansen!
“Until the lion learns how to write, every story will glorify the hunter.”
This African proverb carries a powerful message for healthcare simulation in Africa.
For too long, many African institutions have existed on the receiving end of global healthcare simulation conversations. We have adopted models, frameworks, technologies, and narratives developed elsewhere, often within contexts vastly different from our own realities.
But Africa has a story to tell.
We understand resource constrained healthcare systems.
We understand innovation born from necessity.
We understand cultural complexity, multilingual learning environments, workforce shortages, and the realities of delivering healthcare education across diverse contexts.
African educators, clinicians, technicians, researchers, simulated patients, and students must not only participate in the healthcare simulation ecosystem as consumers. We must contribute as creators, researchers, leaders, innovators, and storytellers.
If we do not actively shape the discourse, others will continue to define Africa’s challenges, strengths, and possibilities on our behalf.
This is why African collaboration, African research, African simulation networks, and African-led scholarship matter so deeply.
Not because we reject global partnership, but because authentic partnership requires voice, agency, and contribution from all sides.
Africa does not simply need a seat at the table.
Africa must help build the table.
