DIRECTOR’S NOTE

Prof. Dr. Bruno Gryseels

Director Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp

Ground-breaking publications, world-class conferences, flattering assessments of our master’s courses, innovative projects against sleeping sickness, the submission of a new five-year capacity strengthening programme to the Ministry of Development – these are just a few highlights that kept us busy and utterly motivated over the past year. Read all about it on the following pages and our brand new website www.itg.be. 

At the same time we look back at a period of strategic reorientation and restructuring. I wish to thank wholeheartedly all staff for their critical loyalty throughout a demanding but fascinating time in which we outlined the future of ITM.  I am particularly grateful to the department heads who, back in 2011, took up a formidable challenge. They led their departments through highs and lows, and grew ever stronger in their institutional role as members of the management committee.

“ITM and its partners around the world must be ready to stand against the tide, sticking to academic excellence as their most powerful tool.”

The transition that lies behind us has prepared ITM for a rapidly changing world. In fact, some of the assumptions of our initial “ITM2020+” reform plan have already been surpassed by reality, for example the changes in the realm of development cooperation and the increased competition for scarce scientific funds. The same forces of globalisation have also led to electoral and political consequences that challenge international solidarity as well as science-based rationality. ITM and its partners around the world must be ready to stand against the tide, sticking to academic excellence as their most powerful tool.

A prime occasion to take stock of scientific and societal impact will be the 10th edition of the European Congress on Tropical Medicine and International Health (ECTMIH), which will be hosted by ITM in Antwerp on 16 – 20 October 2017. We foresee an exciting programme in a magnificent venue, close to all the delights of glorious Antwerp. Do have a look at www.ectmih2017.be and join us at this premier gathering on tropical medicine and international health in Europe. I promise you will not regret it. ■