Khulani Siphile Siphuhle Training Program in South Africa (KiSS-TP)

Desmond Tutu Hiv Foundation, Cape Town

Investigators

Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract Sexual and gender minorities are marginalized in South Africa with limited access to health care or opportunities to take part in research especially concerning their health disparities. This supplemental research training program aims to build on the parent award, the Khulani Siphile Siphuhle Training Program (KiSS-TP), to improve the research capacity of young HIV researchers, with a focus on sexual and gender minorities. Improving the skills and experience of sexual and gender minorities in research will enable them to amplify their voices and address the health needs of this vulnerable population. The KiSS-TP is based at the Desmond Tutu Health Foundation (DTHF) Eastern Cape site. The DTHF is a renowned non-profit research organization affiliated to the University of Cape Town, based in Cape Town, South Africa. For this supplementary training program, the KiSS-TP will collaborate with the DTHF LGBT+ Health Division at the Groote Schuur Hospital Clinical Research Site in Cape Town. The DTHF LGBT+ Health Division plays a vital role in promoting equitable access to healthcare for LGBTQI+ communities through research, community engagement, and advocacy. In line with their commitment to empowering LGBTQI+ individuals and communities, the DTHF LGBT+ Health Division will provide a research training program for early career LGBTQI+ health researchers. This program, building on the KiSS-TP, aims to enhance research capacity while addressing health disparities and improving health outcomes for sexual and gender minorities. Trainees will be selected at both the undergraduate and postgraduate level mainly from historically disadvantaged institutions (HDIs) in South Africa. Preference will be given to LGBTQI+ persons who are multiply marginalized and/or trans and gender diverse. The training program will involve a mentored research project which will identify barriers to accessing HIV services and gender- affirming care for transgender populations in South Africa. Trainees will gain experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods, including surveys and focus group discussions. They will participate in all phases of the research process, receive mentoring from experienced LGBTQI+ researchers, and have access to educational resources, seminars, and community outreach activities. The ultimate goal is to nurture a diverse and inclusive research environment and develop the next generation of LGBTQI+ health researchers.