Banda Forum

Africa Must Build, Not Beg

In conversation with Professor Christian Happi, the real subject is not recognition, but authorship: who gets to produce the knowledge, tools, and institutions that shape the future of health.

The best MPH in Africa?: Ensign University (Practicum, Scholarships, Career Paths)

Thinking about an MPH in Africa that meets global standards—without the confusion? In this episode of Ensign Scholars Table, we sit down with President Stephen Alder of Ensign Global University (Ghana) to unpack what makes Ensign’s Master of Public Health (MPH) stand out: a practice-first practicum, scholarship opportunities, and real career pathways across government, NGOs, global health organizations, and academia.

Global Health Is About Power: Seye Abimbola on Knowledge, Voice & Who Gets Heard

Global health isn’t just technical, it’s political. In this episode of The Scholars Table, we sit with Seye Abimbola to unpack how knowledge, power, and voice shape what gets funded, published, and implemented in global health. We discuss: * How power determines whose knowledge is seen as legitimate * Representation vs real shifts in power * What early-career researchers misunderstand about publishing & peer review * How peer review can be rigorous AND just * How to stay critical in global health without becoming cynical * Graduate study & academic opportunities in Australia (University of Sydney context)

Professor Ana Navas-Acien: PhD Mentorship, Academic Leadership & Building an Impactful Research Career

Discover what it really takes to stand out in PhD applications, excel in doctoral interviews, and build a meaningful, long-term academic research career. In this episode, Professor Ana Navas-Acien shares practical, experience-driven insights on PhD selection, mentorship, academic leadership, and how to create impactful research that lasts beyond publications. Whether you’re preparing for a PhD interview, choosing mentors, navigating academic culture, or aiming to become a future research leader, this conversation breaks down the hidden signals committees look for and the habits that sustain a successful academic career over decades.

The Future of Epidemiology: AI, Public Health & Global Talent at Harvard

In this wide-ranging conversation, we sit down with Dr. Albert Hofman, Chair of the Department of Epidemiology at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, to go beyond rankings, GPAs, and buzzwords. Dr. Hofman shares rare insight from decades of global academic leadership, covering PhD admissions, mentorship, funding cuts, and the future of epidemiology in an era shaped by AI, climate change, and widening inequities. This episode is essential viewing for PhD applicants, early-career researchers, faculty, and global health leaders, especially those navigating elite academic spaces from outside traditional pipelines.