Inclusive CEI in health systems research

National Institute for Health and Care Research

This is the sixth episode of our series, Spotlight on community engagement and involvement (CEI): Leaving no one behind.

Host, Dr Saumu Lwembe, is joined by NIHR-funded researchers, Dr Munzer Alkhalil, Research Fellow at London School of Economics, and Professor Getnet Tadele, Professor at Addis Ababa University, who share their experiences of conducting CEI as part of their health systems research.

Together, they discuss what is meant by leaving no one behind, the differences between doing CEI in health systems research compared to other types of research, challenges, the impact of CEI on their research, and provide tips for leaving no one behind in CEI.

Get to know our speakers

Dr. Munzer Alkhalil is a medical doctor and research fellow at LSE IDEAS. He co-founded and led the Idlib Health Directorate in Syria from 2013 to 2020. In addition to his medical and research work, Munzer has played a significant role in community empowerment by supporting the development of local councils, documenting war crimes, and leading advocacy campaigns to protect healthcare in conflict zones. He also co-led the community engagement and involvement strategy for the NIHR-funded Research for Health Systems Strengthening in Syria (R4HSSS). His research focuses on improving health systems and humanitarian business models in conflict settings.

Professor Getnet Tadele is a distinguished academic whose work bridges the fields of health and social sciences, with a particular focus on global health challenges. His key areas of interest include neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), childhood studies, and sexual and reproductive health. Getnet's global academic engagement has taken him to more than 100 destinations worldwide, where he has participated in teaching, research, examinations, conferences, and workshops. In addition to his academic achievements, Getnet is a dedicated community mobilizer, contributing to the construction of schools and bridges in Ethiopia. He was co-investigator of the NIHR-funded Social Sciences for Severe Stigmatising skin conditions (5S) Foundation.

Dr Saumu Lwembe is an expert in the involvement of people and communities in health and care research. As an assistant director at the NIHR, she has a key role in ensuring that diverse citizens can work in successful partnership with NIHR and with the research projects that NIHR funds, both in the UK and in low and middle income countries. Saumu has significant experience in global public health policy and systems, with a strong focus on narrowing the gap between ambition and action. She holds a Doctor of Public Health degree from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

Please note this episode was recorded in early 2025. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of the NIHR or the Department of Health and Social Care.