Read about the recent CAMO-Net in-person meet up from the perspective of four researchers: Asma Jahan Monika (CAMO-Net Bangladesh), Tlangelani Makamu (CAMO-Net South Africa), Gabrielly Lacerda de Aragão (CAMO-Net Brazil), and Dave Freeman (CAMO-Net UK).
Asma Jahan Monika – CAMO-Net Bangladesh
Attending the workshop was a highly enriching and intellectually stimulating experience that significantly deepened my understanding of effective medicine prescribing practices—especially in the context of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and neonatal infections in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The sessions provided valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by LMICs in managing infectious diseases and emphasised the importance of adopting evidence-based strategies for antimicrobial stewardship. In particular, the lecture on integrating technological solutions to optimise antibiotic use and prescribing practices was both timely and essential for settings like ours, where healthcare resources are often limited and the burden of resistant infections is disproportionately high.
A standout component of the workshop was the session on therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) and the application of data science and artificial intelligence for clinical decision-making. These emerging approaches offer powerful tools for enhancing the precision and effectiveness of antimicrobial therapy, and hold great promise for strengthening surveillance systems and improving patient outcomes. The practical examples and real-world applications presented during this session were particularly useful, providing a clear vision of how these innovations could be translated into our local healthcare context.
Equally engaging was the hands-on demonstration of innovative microsampling techniques and point-of-care diagnostic tools. These technologies are not only transformative for clinical practice but also present exciting opportunities for research. Our team was able to collect several lancets for potential use in ongoing studies, which may serve as the foundation for future collaborative projects. The ingenuity behind these diagnostic tools was inspiring and demonstrated how creativity and scientific rigour can come together to solve pressing healthcare challenges.
Another critical aspect of the workshop was the session on science advice for policy, which highlighted the role of researchers in bridging the gap between evidence generation and policy formulation. As scientists, our ultimate goal is not only to generate new knowledge but also to ensure its translation into meaningful policy actions. This session was exceptionally well delivered and equipped participants with practical strategies for communicating scientific findings to policymakers in a clear, effective, and impactful manner.
In addition to the educational sessions, the workshop provided excellent opportunities for professional networking. I had the privilege of engaging in thoughtful discussions with fellow researchers and representatives from other CAMO-Net hubs, which fostered mutual learning and opened avenues for potential collaboration. Sharing experiences and research interests with peers working in similar contexts helped broaden my perspective and enriched the overall experience.
The travel grant played a vital role in facilitating my participation in this important event. It enabled me to attend and fully engage in all sessions, discussions, and interactive activities. The knowledge and insights I gained—particularly on antimicrobial resistance and rational prescribing practices—will directly inform and strengthen my ongoing and future research initiatives. Additionally, I appreciated the opportunity to learn from the diverse expertise of other CAMO-Net members and to explore collaborative possibilities for addressing shared public health challenges.
As a first-time visitor to London, the cultural experiences—especially the visit to the UK Parliament and the guided city tour—were memorable additions that enhanced the overall impact of the trip. These experiences not only added educational value but also provided a broader appreciation of global health diplomacy and governance.
The hospitality extended by the CAMO-Net organising team was exceptional, and I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to be part of this workshop. The knowledge, skills, and connections I gained through this experience will greatly contribute to my efforts in addressing antimicrobial resistance and promoting the health and well-being of vulnerable populations in my country.
Tlangelani Makamu – CAMO-Net South Africa
Attending the CAMO-Net meeting in London was an enriching and inspiring experience. I had the privilege of co-facilitating a workshop focused on aligning technology with context, culture, and behaviour—particularly during the implementation phase. I also co-presented the work of the South African CAMO-Net hub on AMR communication, which sparked valuable conversations.
What stood out most was the diversity of ongoing innovation across CAMO-Net sites. I was particularly impressed by the product innovations shared, as well as the process innovations presented by others. The visit to the Wellcome Collection, exploring the question of what it means to be “human”, was both fun and thought-provoking.
Another highlight was the policy-focused workshop at the Houses of Parliament, especially the session on writing research to influence policy. Touring the historic library and viewing influential research documents added a meaningful layer to the experience.
Perhaps most impactful was the realisation of the depth and breadth of expertise across CAMO-Net. It was a reminder of the global potential we hold if we continue to collaborate intentionally. And of course, the jalopy bus tour (and its delightful guide!) was a perfect way to wrap up an incredible week.
The people of CAMO-Net made the meeting truly memorable—bringing warmth, insight, and a shared sense of purpose throughout.
Gabrielly Lacerda de Aragão – CAMO-Net Brazil
The CAMO-Net travel grant gave me the opportunity to take my first international trip, which in itself was an incredible experience. It was very enriching to explore a new country with a different culture.
During the meeting, I was able to learn more about the projects developed by different CAMO-Net groups around the world, and also share a little about the work I do. The workshops were a great opportunity to collaborate with participants from various countries and learn from their different perspectives.
The environment was very welcoming, with all participants being receptive and eager to share their experiences and projects. This exchange helped me make important connections and opened up possibilities for future international collaborations.
I am very grateful for the opportunity the travel grant provided and for the lessons I’ll carry with me throughout my career.
David Freeman – CAMO-Net UK
It was really good to see so many people at the CAMO-Net meeting last week. Each day was enjoyable and educational. We have a strong partnership that spans an incredible area—thanks to everyone for making the trip.
I hope the workshops in the first two days were thought-provoking. From my side, I got some interesting insights into how we view biosensor technologies, and the different (and sometimes overlapping) priorities people have. It’s rare to have so many experts in antimicrobial resistance in one room, all participating. I’m grateful for your time and hope you got something out of it.
The main aim of these meetings, at least from my point of view, is to promote friendships across and within sites. Not just for fun—it’s substantially easier to write a grant proposal with people you like. Doing the science also becomes easier when you’re working with people it’s easy to communicate with. The power of friendship!
These meetings are obviously a lot of work to put together and manage. It’s a great administrative feat that our team here in London and up in Liverpool pulled off fantastically—well done.
(And yes, I am now three chapters into that tree book everyone seemed to be reading.)
