Message from Executive Director
I hope this next phase in my life will be a shift in roles rather than age. The Hindu idea of vanaprastha, which means “forest dweller”, has a particular appeal. At this stage, having acquired a grandson (the key criterion), is to “leave the bustle and distractions of daily life and enter the quiet and contemplation of the forest, at least in a spiritual sense”. And the Talmudic view that a “special strength” emerges around eighty. I prefer this to Solon (an Athenian statesman and philosopher), who described the last of seven phases from sixty-three to seventy as departing on the ebb tide of death.
I want to take this opportunity to say goodbye officially and thank you for your support throughout my time at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD). The NICD has been part of my life since 1999. In the 27 years I have spent with this organisation, I have found my work not only challenging and stimulating but equally fulfilling. Being part of this institution has allowed me to work with colleagues across sectors of society and organisations, both locally and internationally. These collaborations have enriched my life immeasurably. I have also had the privilege of teaching and mentoring the next generation of technologists, virologists, immunologists, and public health specialists.
It has been a privilege to be part of an institution that has become adept at responding to pandemics and outbreaks. Over the years, we have faced numerous public health crises and emerged more agile and responsive. Our responses to the H1N1 influenza and COVID-19 pandemics, though challenging at the time, are milestones we can look back on with pride and lessons we can apply to future challenges.
As I head to the forest with the ebb and flow of life, I wish you every success as you continue to take this institution to even greater heights. I extend my sincere gratitude to my colleagues in National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) EXCO, the Board, the NICD Management Committee, the Centre for HIV and Sexually Transmitted Diseases, and all staff across the Institute.
