The International AIDS Society (IAS) mourns the passing of Professor Gita Ramjee, world-renowned HIV scientist and Chief Scientific Officer at the Aurum Institute, who died in South Africa on Tuesday, 31 March from COVID-19 related complications.
Professor Ramjee, a longtime member of the International AIDS Society, dedicated her life to HIV prevention and treatment research and has contributed substantially to advancing HIV prevention science among women in South Africa. During her time as chief specialist scientist and director of the South African Medical Research Council’s (SAMRC) HIV Prevention Research Unit, Professor Ramjee’s KwaZulu-Natal based team was at the forefront of research to find new HIV prevention methods that were adapted to the life circumstances and vulnerabilities of South African women.
“Our thoughts are with Gita’s family and friends at this difficult time,” said Kevin Osborne, Executive Director at the IAS. “Gita was an extraordinary scientist, pioneer, colleague and friend to many across the IAS. Her resolve to find HIV prevention solutions for women, particularly in South Africa, was tremendous. The HIV community and beyond will miss Gita’s leadership, devotion and determination.”