The Department of Physiology is proud to highlight the enriching experiences of two esteemed colleagues, Dr Nivash Rugbeer and Prof Alisa Phulukdaree, who participated in the Biostatistics Symposium held from July 3rd to 5th, 2023, at the Future Africa campus of the University of Pretoria.

Dr Rugbeer shared his appreciation for the opportunity, stating, "I attended the Biostatistics Symposium with immense gratitude to the Department of Physiology for granting me this invaluable experience. The symposium served as a remarkable platform for exploring emerging trends in statistics and biostatistics." Throughout the event, attendees engaged in dynamic discussions that delved into a wide array of topics, including clinical trials, survival analysis, sample size calculations, and statistical modeling. Dr Rugbeer's participation reflects the department's commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

Prof Phulukdaree also expressed her enthusiasm, remarking on the symposium's profound insights. "Attending the International Symposium on Biostatistics at Future Africa was an incredibly enlightening experience," she shared. The symposium facilitated a deep dive into intricate mathematical and statistical concepts, and attendees had the privilege of hearing from world-renowned experts, including Professors Din Chen, Carlos A. Coelho, and Sheetal Silal. Prof. Silal's instrumental role in advising the South African government during the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the practical significance of the symposium's themes. Prof Phulukdaree also highlighted the illuminating session led by Prof. Carlos A. Coelho from the University of Lisbon, where the Likelihood Ratio Test was discussed, allowing for testing even when the sample size equals 1.

The insights shared by both Dr Rugbeer and Prof Phulukdaree reflect the commitment of the Department of Physiology to provide its members with opportunities for growth, learning, and engagement with the latest advancements in their respective fields. The symposium not only deepened their understanding of biostatistics but also fostered connections with leading experts in the field.

As the Department of Physiology continues to champion academic excellence and professional development, we congratulate Dr Rugbeer and Prof Phulukdaree for their active engagement and contributions at the Biostatistics Symposium. Their experiences inspire us to continue exploring and embracing novel insights that advance our understanding of the scientific landscape.