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Authored by Dahdaleh Global Health Graduate Scholar Yvette NKURUNZIZA

From April 8, 2026 to April 12, 2026; I participated during the Consortium of Universities for Global Health (CUGH) Annual Conference, held at the Hilton Hotel Dupont Circle in Washington, DC. The conference is one of the leading international conferences dedicated to advancing global health research, education, and practice; bringing together researchers, educators, practitioners, and students from universities and institutions across the world to share innovations and evidence-based approaches to pressing global health challenges.

During the conference, I presented a research poster titled "Assessing the Socio-Ecological Factors that Contribute to Intimate Partner Violence among People Living with HIV, in Kayonza District, Rwanda." The poster was selected as the winning submission in the student poster competition under Subtheme 2: The Social and Political Determinants of Health. This recognition was announced at the CUGH 2026 where the award certificate was formally presented during the conference's award ceremony on April 11th, 2026, from 3:30–4:30 PM. This distinction served as a motivation for me as a first year PhD student. 

Beyond the poster presentation, attending CUGH 2026 was a learning experience. Students and academicians from different universities presented their research topics and I had the opportunity to encounter topics that are closely relevant to my own research interests, of which I can consider while writing research grants to fill the literature gap in my home country Rwanda. 

One of the valuable skills that I gained was through a workshop on communication where I learnt how to write opinion editorials (Op-Eds) as a tool for communication. This session provided practical guidance on how researchers can translate complex academic findings into accessible, compelling narratives for public and policy audiences. Learning how to craft Op-Eds is a skill I intend to apply going forward, as effective communication beyond academic circles is increasingly important for driving real-world impact from research.

The conference also provided meaningful opportunities for professional networking. I have met professors and students from my previous university, the University of Global Health Equity and discussed possible collaborations given the skills I am gaining in my PhD, of which I can make them beneficial for my home country Rwanda. In addition,  I made connections with other researchers, faculty members, and fellow students working across diverse global health fields, including those with shared interests in HIV research. I believe that this opens doors for future collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge exchange.

Attending CUGH 2026 was also deeply motivating at a personal level. At a time when global health funding is facing unprecedented pressures and uncertainty, it was inspiring and encouraging to witness so many researchers, practitioners, and students who remain steadfastly committed to the pursuit of health equity and justice. In one panel discussion on financing the future of global health, we were reminded that sovereignty is not about finances, rather, it is about trust, accountability, data and many more. 

I am grateful for the Dahdaleh Institute of Global Health for their continuous support towards my journey of being an academician and researcher in the future.

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