In a historic move for scientific research and industry development on the continent, the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (Services SETA) have officially broken ground on the African Research Institute for Skin Health (ARISE).
Set to be constructed on UCT’s Faculty of Health Sciences campus, this multi-storey facility marks a paradigm shift, focusing specifically on skin and hair health relevant to African populations—a sector historically overlooked in global research.
African Science for Africans
The need for ARISE stemmed from a critical gap in research and product safety standards. Professor Lionel Green-Thompson, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, highlighted that for too long, African skin and hair have been treated as an “afterthought.”
“The ARISE building foregrounds African science for Africans in an African context.”
The institute aims to reverse this trend by establishing a hub where research, product testing, and training are tailored to the unique physiological needs of African skin and hair.
Beyond Dermatology: A Focus on Skills and Safety
While housed within the Division of Dermatology, ARISE aims to bridge the gap between clinical medicine and the booming cosmetic industry.
- Applied Research: Investigating the unique properties of African hair and skin to develop safer, more effective products.
- Industry Standards: Providing rigorous safety testing for cosmetic products to protect consumers from illegal or harmful ingredients.
- Skills Development: Expanding capacity for training, postgraduate research, and entrepreneurship within the beauty and personal care sector.
ARISE project lead, Professor Nonhlanhla Khumalo, emphasized that the institute is rooted in addressing real-world clinical issues, such as severe drug reactions to harmful cosmetics, and providing restorative services, including tattoo removal for community rehabilitation.
Economic Impact and Future Vision
Supported by a multi-million-rand injection from Services SETA, the partnership aims to formalize and professionalize the South African cosmetic industry—a market valued at roughly US$4 billion.
Acting CEO of Services SETA, Sibusiso Dhladhla, highlighted the 360-degree value chain the institute will support, from high school learners entering the field to graduates launching their own beauty enterprises.
With the groundbreaking complete, ARISE is set to become a cornerstone of innovation, ensuring that African science is driving solutions for African people.
