“Finding the sweet spot between the correct dosage for patients while limiting the side effects is the next step in research, says Caryn Upton, who works at Cape Town’s Task Applied Science clinical research centre on the trial. ”

“We must keep developing new drugs; we mustn’t be happy now that we have a few ones that work.” Andreas Diacon

#WorldTBDay

So each month you can post or email a question for the CEO, I’ll ask him (anonymously if needed) and we will publish the Q&A here.

Queston 1: “Why is TASK Eden separate from TASK and how does the relationship work between the two work?

Andreas: The two entities have been set up as separate businesses but they are under the same ownership. TASK Eden does not yet have active studies. Once TASK Eden is established I hope that the entities can collaborate on projects.

Question 2: Dear Prof, Why is it that only certain people grow  (advance in the organisation)

Especially people that work so hard and then lazy ones get promoted?

P.S No name

Andreas: I am sorry that you feel this way and I understand that you can not be more specific here. Marilyn from the HR office will listen to you in confidence – please make an appointment and speak openly about what bothers you.

Recently Duncan attended a TB Advocacy event hosted by Shawco health at UCT. He had the privilege to meet reigning Miss SA Tamaryn Green and introduce her to TASK. She expressed interest in working with TASK, particularly in TB advocacy and outreach in Cape Town.  

Various events took place on and around World TB Day. TASK staff participated in a community outreach program with the Delft CAB. Pictured here are team members and CAB raising awareness at the Delft Day Clinic.

TASK was privileged to be invited to present at the recent Spotlight forum on TB prevention. Pictured here is Dr Elana Van Brakel addressing an audience of local and national stakeholders in TB prevention and treatment.
Some of the distinguished presenters included Yulene Kock from the Department of Health, Dr Arne von Delft from TB Proof and Dr Judy Caldwell from the City of Cape Town.
The intent of the meeting was to come to a common understanding of current prevention efforts and to identify ways in which TB preventions can be improved.

Team TASK took part and completed this year’s #AbsaCapeEpic.

TASK CEO Prof Andreas Diacon and Alvin Hirner rode the the grueling 8 day event. This year’s Epic riders traversed 630 kilometers and climbed over 16 650 meters.

TASK’s finance director Jaco Swart was invited to present on ‘applying for clinical research grants’ at the Fundisa African Academy of Medicines Development for the Clinical Investigator Certification Course.

The Technology and Innovation Agency (TIA) recently visited TASK. This to gain a broader understanding of what we do and where they could assist us as a government agency.

It’s that time of year again, be sure to contact your site coordinator to book your flu shot.