“Africa is not just experiencing the burden of emerging infections, it is contributing to the global solutions.”-Prof. Dimie Ogoina, Vice-Chancellor, Bayelsa Medical University (BMU).
In a moment that resonated far beyond the walls of the Palais des Congres in Montreal, Canada, Professor Dimie Ogoina (Time 100 Honoree), Vice-Chancellor of Bayelsa Medical University (BMU), delivered these words during his presentation at the STI & HIV 2025 World Congress, held from July 26–30, 2025. Invited by the International Union Against Sexually Transmitted Infections (IUSTI), Prof.Ogoina addressed a high-level symposium on “Mpox and Other Emerging STIs”, marking a milestone for both himself and BMU on the global stage.
His lecture, titled “Mpox in Africa,” offered an authoritative account of the evolving landscape of the Mpox virus, an infectious disease that has transitioned from regional obscurity to international urgency, with Prof. Ogoina recognized as a key figure in bringing global attention to the trend.
In his presentation, Prof. Ogoina proudly highlighted BMU’s strides in research, digital health innovation, and medical education, aligning these achievements with the University’s vision to become a hub of excellence, innovation, and global impact.
The symposium itself unfolded under the wider theme of the 2025 Congress- “Sexual Health for All”-which united more than 3,000 participants from over 70 countries, including worldrenowned clinicians, scientists, public health experts, and community advocates. Together, they explored the latest findings in STI/HIV research, emerging health threats, and inclusive strategies for sexual health advancement. This prestigious platform underscored Prof. Ogoina’s reputation as a global health leader and spotlighted BMU as a rapidly emerging center for academic, research, and healthcare transformation.
As we continue to drive the ASPIRE Agenda, this milestone in Montreal not only underscored Prof. Ogoina’s status as 2023 Nature’s Top 10 Scientist and Time Magazine 100 most influential person in 2023 but also reaffirmed BMU’s rising profile as an institution committed to solving the world’s most pressing health challenges.