Africa stands at a critical juncture, recognized globally for its immense potential in scientific discovery and clinical trials. Driven by its large, genetically diverse population and urgent public health needs, the continent is poised to become a central hub for global drug development. To sustainably unlock this potential and ensure adherence to the highest international standards of data integrity and patient safety, a robust, highly skilled professional workforce is essential.
Xcene Academy was established as the dedicated capacity-building and training arm of the Xcene Group. Our mission extends beyond supporting our own subsidiaries (Xcene Research, Xcene Laboratories & Diagnostics, and our distribution arm); we are committed to actively accelerating the professionalisation of the African clinical research and diagnostics industry. By producing a pipeline of talent immediately competent in GxP-compliant practices, Xcene Academy directly contributes to strengthening the African healthcare ecosystem, enabling the continent to lead its own health agenda and enhance life expectancy through quality research.
Our Objectives and Curriculum Focus
The core objective of Xcene Academy is to close the regional talent gap by providing comprehensive, structured education that converts theoretical knowledge into operational expertise. Our curriculum is designed to mirror the functional requirements of a full-service Contract Research Organization (CRO) and comply with global regulatory guidelines, particularly those set by the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH).
Our focused study pathways cover the entire spectrum of clinical trial execution:
- Clinical Operations: Training for roles such as Clinical Research Associate (CRA), Clinical Project Specialist (CPS), and Clinical Trial Associate (CTA), emphasizing site management, monitoring, and rigorous ICH-Good Clinical Practice (GCP) implementation.
- Specialized Science and Laboratory Management: Programs for Medical Laboratory Specialists (MLS) and Medical Monitors (MM), ensuring high-level expertise in bioanalytical method development, sample logistics, patient safety oversight, and adherence to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
- Compliance and Governance: Specialized training in Regulatory Affairs (RA) and Principal Investigator Training (PIT), focusing on the intricacies of local and international regulatory submission processes, ethical oversight, and quality assurance.
Faculty and Mentorship
Our programmes are delivered by a world-class faculty comprising not only senior industry leaders from the Xcene Group with extensive hands-on experience but also external clinical trial and research professionals. This diversified pool of educators ensures participants benefit from both institutional expertise and a broad perspective on global industry best practices, site management challenges, and regulatory agency expectations. All training is complemented by a formal mentorship structure led by highly experienced professionals.
Certification
Upon successful completion of the rigorous programmes, participants are awarded an official Certificate of Professional Competence from Xcene Research. Furthermore, all long and short courses include formal ICH-GCP Certification/Re-certification, ensuring every graduate meets the fundamental global standard required for ethical and compliant clinical research practice.
Proven Success: Capacity Building Programmes
Xcene Academy’s success is validated by the direct impact of its trainee programmes on regional capacity building. Our intensive training models select and develop highly motivated individuals, converting promising candidates into skilled professionals. The top performers move on to our internal internship pathways and contribute to active clinical studies across the continent.
