A new era in childhood cancer research

A significant chapter in childhood haematology-oncology research in South Africa begins with the launch of the Wits–CMJAH Paeds Haem-Onc Research CoLab, supported by the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH).

Led by Professor Jennifer Geel, Head of Paediatric Haematology-Oncology at CMJAH and Academic Head of Division at Wits, the centre is made possible through a collaboration between CHOC and donors Adcock Ingram and The Kinvest Trust.

The CoLab will serve as a central hub for pioneering research, enhanced data collection and strengthened clinical collaboration to improve outcomes for children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer and life-threatening blood disorders.

Research focus areas

The research team will prioritise diagnoses such as Hodgkin lymphoma, retinoblastoma, Burkitt lymphoma, acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, low-grade glioma and nephroblastoma.

These cancers are highlighted by the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer as highly curable with available resources and account for 60% of cases treated by the unit. Additional work will focus on severe aplastic anaemia and stem cell transplantation.

A symbol of renewal for CMJAH

The establishment of the CoLab marks a moment of renewal for Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. Following the devastating fire that disrupted services across the facility, the new Research Centre stands as a testament to what collaboration can rebuild.

It restores confidence in the future of paediatric care and strengthens the hospital’s commitment to innovation and improved outcomes.

“This centre represents the bridge between research and real lives,” said Hedley Lewis, CEO of CHOC. “It’s a space where science meets compassion, ensuring that the children, teenagers and families we serve today will benefit from tomorrow’s discoveries.”

Four pillars of impact

The centre aims to generate meaningful impact through four core areas of work:

• Strengthening clinical research in paediatric haematology-oncology
• Advancing data-driven innovation with universities and international partners
• Supporting multi-disciplinary teamwork across oncology, psychosocial care and public health
• Developing and mentoring the next generation of paediatric haematology-oncology researchers

Professor Geel shared her vision for the CoLab: “We aim to consolidate the excellent research performed in this unit and take it to new heights by collaborating with local and international partners, focusing on locally relevant projects that directly impact the lives of the children, adolescents and families that we serve.”

A collective commitment to future care

The launch brought together representatives from the Department of Health, CHOC, the academic and research community, and corporate donors, united in the mission to strengthen hope through locally driven research and innovation.

For CHOC, the milestone reinforces its longstanding commitment to holistic care, expanding its support beyond psychosocial and practical services to include research that will shape the future of paediatric haematology-oncology in South Africa and across the continent.