Law Lecturer Appointed as South African Ambassador for French Association

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Law lecturer, Ms Sheetal Soni has been appointed as South African ambassador for the Association of Ethics and Integrity (Association Ethique et Intégrité).

The non-profit organisation promotes research integrity, sound scientific practices and women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), and has developed an international network of female academics across various disciplines.

As one of the lawyers who form part of the Association, Soni will assist with the collation of international and national laws relating to research integrity and ethics in the context of gene editing and other research.

She said that her initial reaction was one of surprise, as a chance meeting presented this opportunity. ‘I was in Paris attending an annual meeting when the founder of the Association introduced herself. She was curious as to why a lawyer was interested in genome editing and I explained that lawyers need to assist with drafting legal guidelines for regulation. Numerous conversations later, she invited me to become an active member and serve as the South African ambassador.

‘The appointment places me closer to where I would like to be in terms of my research - at the forefront of the activity surrounding emerging technology. Membership of international associations such as these offers an opportunity to directly engage in new developments. As an academic in Law, I am one of a minority who are engaging in research and providing input with respect to technology which will affect us all.

‘As a South African, I feel that the appointment is of immense significance. Gene editing technology is not currently available here; however, when clinical application inevitably begins, the Global South which stands to be most heavily impacted, and therefore the African voice, must be part of the conversation. Associations like these are building an international network, and want to understand our position in the global landscape. I am grateful to have the opportunity to make our voice heard.’

Soni is also assisting the South African National Department of Health to develop guidelines for the provision of clinical genetic services in the country.

Words: Lungile Ngubelanga

Photograph: Supplied