Overcoming all social barriers in Bangladesh, Dr. Firdausi Qadri - the winner of the VinFuture 2024 Special Prize for Scientists from Developing Countries, remains steadfast in her scientific research path. She has spent all of the $500,000 prize money from VinFuture to expand the scale of the Institute for Science Development and Health Innovation ideSHi, which she founded, to nurture future medical talents for Bangladesh.

VinFuture adds inspiration and motivation

- How has the VinFuture 2024 Special Prize for innovation in improving oral cholera vaccines in developing countries impacted your scientific research path in your homeland?

VinFuture has inspired and motivated me to contribute to improving the lives of the people of Bangladesh, and at the same time, it has given me new energy and strengthened my purpose in life. The recognition not only motivates me in my research work but also urges me to ensure that scientific solutions are applied in practice, bringing benefits to the less fortunate, especially in global humanitarian crises.

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The winner of the VinFuture 2024 Special Prize - Dr. Firdausi Qadri (left) has generously donated the entire prize money of 500,000 USD to expand research facilities and develop the country's science (Photo: VinFuture)

In 2014, I founded the ideSHi Institute for Science and Health Innovation with the aim of improving public health and nurturing the next generation of scientists. I was extremely happy to receive the $500,000 award from VinFuture, as this money allowed me to invest in expanding ideSHi’s space and opening more laboratories. Currently, the Institute is providing modern facilities, supporting research on genetic and infectious diseases, organizing training programs and collaborating with many international partners.

With the prize money from VinFuture, I believe that ideSHi will continue to bring practical solutions to address challenges in public healthcare, thereby enhancing Bangladesh's position in the biomedical field.

- Could you please share the new research directions currently being implemented?

The oral vaccine has paved the way for widespread immunization campaigns in Bangladesh and other developing countries, helping to contain outbreaks. But vaccines alone will not stop cholera. A comprehensive approach is needed, improving water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), including increased education and, most importantly, robust surveillance to track the spread of the bacteria.

We are also working towards effective cholera control through a comprehensive public health approach and have made important progress, including demonstrating that, in the event of an outbreak, timely vaccination can rapidly reduce the number of cases.

We have implemented this strategy in many areas of Bangladesh and are working closely with the government to develop a national cholera control plan. This is a significant milestone in the fight against this dangerous disease.

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In a context where many countries are reluctant to acknowledge the cholera problem, Dr. Qadri (right) uses it as motivation to continue research, improve public health and Bangladesh's position in biomedical research (Photo: icddr,b)

- Your dedication and success in cholera vaccine research is an inspiration to women around the world. What sparked your passion for science?

My research journey began with a deep passion for immunology. Initially, I focused on laboratory work, but then realized that laboratory work alone was not enough. So I expanded my research from the laboratory to the field, beyond my original area of ​​expertise.

During my research, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of cholera at the hospital where I worked in Bangladesh. Every year, up to 200,000 patients with diarrhea are admitted to the hospital, of which 90-95% are infected due to difficult circumstances and poor living conditions.

I can’t change everyone’s lifestyle, so I started working directly with communities, researching vaccine efficacy, distribution strategies, and public health interventions. I expanded my collaboration outside of academia to work more with governments, discussing what should and should be done.

In fact, cholera is often shy about talking about it because of its association with poor sanitation. Some governments are reluctant to acknowledge its existence for fear of damaging their national image. But at VinFuture, I am honored to be honored for my research journey.

Breaking gender stereotypes in science

- Did you encounter any gender barriers when pursuing science?

Nowadays, gender stereotypes and barriers are not only limited to Bangladesh or Asia but also exist globally. I always wanted to work equally with my male colleagues, to be known as a “scientist” instead of a “female scientist”. So instead of my gender being an obstacle, I always focused on my work and did not allow myself to feel weak or limit my abilities.

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Dr. Firdausi Qadri (right) learns about traditional ceramic art during his visit to Vietnam as part of the VinFuture 2024 Awards Ceremony (Photo: VinFuture)

- As someone passionate about STEM education (Science - Technology - Engineering - Mathematics), why do you think empowering women in this field plays an important role?

Statistics show that in every field, men are still the majority, not only in developing countries but also in advanced economies. If we really want to contribute to a better world, women must be part of this transformation.

However, many women are still hesitant to choose STEM fields, not because they lack the ability but because of deeply ingrained social prejudices. Particularly in fields such as engineering and mathematics, the number of women participating is very limited. Cultural biases often dictate which fields are suitable for men and which are suitable for women, creating invisible barriers that discourage women from pursuing STEM.

Another factor to consider is the cost and deep commitment. Success in STEM requires years of dedication and perseverance, making the path especially difficult for women, who must balance career goals with societal expectations about family life.

I have been trying my best and using my own journey to prove to the younger generation that women can also take good care of their families and successfully pursue science. There is no secret formula, just focus, perseverance and unwavering commitment to the chosen work, and success will surely come.

- Thank you for sharing!

The Dinh