On November 19, 2024, the Unit Vaccine Research Theme held a ‘Social Science Day’, a forum dedicated to exploring how the social aspects of research can address challenges in vaccine acceptance and adoption across East Africa. The event brought together researchers, health practitioners and community advisory boards (CABs) to discuss practical solutions for building trust and improving public engagement in vaccination programmes.

The event opened with remarks from Professor Alison Elliott, Head of the Vaccine Research Theme, who outlined the Unit’s approach to integrating social science in vaccine research. She emphasized the importance of understanding social and cultural factors that influence vaccine uptake and highlighted key milestones from ongoing studies.

Discussions covered insights from Ebola vaccine research, innovative community engagement strategies used in schistosomiasis studies, and the ethical complexities of consent processes in maternal vaccine trials. 

A keynote address by Associate Professor Tracey Chantler, Co-Director of the Vaccine Center at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), highlighted how social science can shape equitable vaccination programs. She noted that integrating community perspectives helps address vaccine disparities, improve trust and ensure interventions are tailored to local needs.

The day concluded with a strategic panel discussion chaired by Dr. David Mafigiri, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Social Work and Social Administration at Makerere University, focusing on the future of vaccine social science research in East Africa. Panelists including Hon. Joseph Ruyonga, Chairperson of Public and Community Health at the Parliament, alongside Vice Chairperson Hon. Samuel Opio, Sheikh Rashid Muyingo (Unit CAB Chairperson), and Mrs. Olivia Nakanwagi (CAB representative, Masaka research station) identified priorities such as formative research, community engagement strategies, and effective communication to address vaccine hesitancy and ensure sustainable impact.

In his remarks, Professor Moffatt Nyirenda, Unit Director, emphasized that successful vaccine implementation requires both scientific excellence and deep understanding of social contexts. He iterated the Unit’s commitment to leveraging social science to create inclusive, trusted and effective vaccination programmes. 

Learn more about vaccine research at the Unit.