Gita Ramsey

"The HIV epidemic has disproportionately affected women. I strongly believe that my calling in life is to find methods that empower women to take control of their HIV prevention and reproductive health rights through informed choices."

"“Interest in science and an inquiring mind is critical. If you have these qualities and have the passion, tenacity and determination to pursue a career where you may not always get the desired answer but have the commitment to make a difference in the lives of people, albeit in a small way, then you should definitely pursue a science career. Love of the job, passion, drive and tenacity are critical traits to have for scientific excellence.”"

"“I learned about the dire need for women‐initiated HIV prevention options and the socio‐behavioural and cultural factors that impact women’s lives. I dedicated my time to researching methods of HIV prevention.""

"It's in my nature to want to excel. My calling is to find a solution. If I don't succeed in my lifetime, at least I've worked towards it."

"I think the key to success is my approach to capacity building, respecting each and every member of my staff, the community, and also the fact that I delivered on the contracts. It is my holistic approach to research, where I'm not just thinking science.""

"I never gave up my responsibility as a parent. Although I wanted to excel in my career, I never wanted to compromise myself as a mother."

"There came a point when I thought: is it worth my while? I have dedicated my life to finding an HIV prevention option for the women of Africa, and these recent attempts to tarnish my efforts have been very demotivating."

"She was an eminent scientist who dedicated her life to HIV prevention for women and girls in Africa. Her death is a huge loss at a time when the world needs her most."

"In her, we have indeed lost a champion in the fight against the HIV epidemic, ironically at the hands of this global pandemic. In her honour, we should heed the call to flatten the curve by strengthening our responses to this global pandemic as well as continue the fight to achieve zero new HIV infections."

"Gita firmly believed in health as a fundamental human right. Her ground-breaking research in HIV prevention contributed to the global response to HIV and Aids."

"She was a leading Aids researcher who was the epitome of a professional. Gita reflected the kind of commitment which saw her rise through the ranks to her international acclaim."

"The passing of professor Ramjee comes as a huge blow to the entirety of the healthcare sector and the global fight against HIV/AIDS."

"Gita was a vibrant person, a real fighter."

"If she sets her mind on something, nobody better stand in her way."