
The Global Health Bioethics Network (GHBN) is hosting an annual Summer School, a small conference/workshop focused on global health bioethics, skills training, and emerging ethical issues. The 2025 GHBN Summer School will be held in Cape Town, South Africa, from September 15–18, covering themes like climate change and health ethics, justice and equity, mental health, and AI in healthcare. This fully funded program aims to enhance participants’ skills in addressing ethical issues in global health research, practice, and policy. Two fully funded spots are open for LMIC-based bioethics researchers.
The Global Health Bioethics Network (GHBN), established in 2012, is a partnership between Wellcome Africa & Asia Programmes, the University of Malaya, and the Ethox Centre at the University of Oxford, with collaborations across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. GHBN hosts. The application deadline is April 25, 2025.
Universities/Institution
- Host Country: South Africa
- Location: Cape Town
- Duration: 3 Days
- Dates: 14th-19th September 2025
Study Areas:
The GHBN Summer School 2025 will focus on key topics in global health bioethics, including:
- Ethics and Climate Change & Health
- Health Justice and Equity
- Ethics and Mental Health
- Ethics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Health
- Community Engagement and Informed Consent
- Pandemic Ethics and Public Health Policies
- Ethical Challenges in Antimicrobial Resistance

GHBN Summer School Benefits:
- Round-trip airfare to Cape Town
- Visa expenses
- Accommodation for 5 nights (September 14–18)
- Meals during the program
- Travel insurance
- Airport transfers and related incidentals
Benefits not included:
- Personal expenses outside the program’s provisions
Eligibility Criteria for GHBN Summer School:
- Open to early or mid-career researchers in global health bioethics.
- Must be from a Lower or Middle-Income Country (LMIC) (see list here).
- Priority given to applicants not from GHBN partner countries (Kenya, South Africa, Malawi, Ghana, Brazil, UK, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam).
- Must be available for in-person attendance in South Africa (no online option).
Required Documents:
- Completed application form
- Support letter from current supervisor
- Curriculum Vitae (2 pages)
GHBN Summer School Application Process:
- Complete the application form.
- Attach the required documents.
- Email the application to dinnah.rippon@ethox.ox.ac.uk, CCing michael.parker@ethox.ox.ac.uk
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Clearly articulate your motivation for attending.
- Highlight how the program aligns with your career goals.
- Provide a concise abstract of your proposed presentation.
- Ensure all required documents are included.
Estimated Monthly Living Expenses in Cape Town (for international students):
- Accommodation: $400 – $800 (shared/private apartment)
- Food & Groceries: $200 – $400
- Public Transport: $50 – $100
- Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet): $70 – $150
- Health Insurance: $30 – $80
- Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Mobile, Personal Expenses): $100 – $300
- Total Estimated Cost: $850 – $1,800 per month (depending on lifestyle and housing choice)
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Participating in the GHBN Summer School offers a unique platform to engage with global experts, enhance your understanding of pressing ethical issues in health, and expand your professional network.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is there an application fee? No, there is no application fee.
- Are English language proficiency tests required? No specific tests like IELTS are mentioned as requirements.
- Can I attend the program online? No, attendance is strictly in-person.
- How will I know if I’m selected? Successful applicants will be notified by May 16, 2025.
- What should the support letter include? A brief endorsement from your current supervisor supporting your application.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
For comprehensive information and application details, visit the official GHBN page: