We are a digital pathology initiative dedicated to improving diagnostic accuracy, education, and collaboration in Rwanda and beyond. Our platform provides secure access to high-quality, anonymized histological images, enabling pathologists, trainees, and medical professionals to learn, share expertise, and seek second opinions regardless of location.
Developed through collaboration between the University of Rwanda and the University Medical Center Göttingen (Germany), with financial support from the Vladimir Totović Foundation, this platform aims to bridge gaps in pathology services by leveraging digital technology. By combining education, research, and telepathology, we strive to strengthen diagnostic capacity, support training, and foster global professional collaboration.
What makes us different
Our platform is designed specifically for resource-limited settings like Rwanda, focusing on real diagnostic and educational needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. It combines a locally relevant case repository, tools for remote consultation, and a collaborative space for case discussion in one platform.
Unlike many systems that focus mainly on storage or commercial use, we prioritize accessibility, education, and capacity building for both trainees and practicing pathologists. The platform is also strengthened by collaboration between the University of Rwanda and the University Medical Center Göttingen, enabling continuous knowledge exchange and international support.
Vision:
To become a leading digital pathology platform in Rwanda that enhances diagnostic services, modernizes pathology education, and promotes collaboration among pathologists locally and globally.
Objectives
- Improving diagnostic services and reducing turnaround time: By enabling rapid access to digitized slides, supporting remote consultations and second opinions, and streamlining case review through an efficient web-based platform.
- Modernizing pathology education: By providing a structured digital repository of diverse, high-quality cases that support interactive learning, self-study, and teaching for students, residents, and laboratory professionals.
- Promoting professional collaboration in Rwanda and beyond: By connecting local and international experts through real-time case discussions, shared resources, and telepathology tools that facilitate knowledge exchange and mentorship.
Our team
Prof. Dr. med. Philipp Ströbel is a senior pathologist and Director of the Institute of Pathology at the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG), Germany. In this role, he has played a pivotal part in the digital transformation of the pathology laboratory at UMG, overseeing the implementation of digital workflows from specimen reception and grossing to reporting and archiving.
He is a leading expert in surgical pathology, with a particular focus on mediastinal and soft tissue tumors. He is actively engaged in diagnostic pathology, advanced research, and medical education, contributing significantly to the advancement of modern pathology practices.
Prof. Ströbel has extensive experience in international collaboration, with a strong commitment to capacity building and training programs in low- and middle-income countries. His academic work is centered on improving diagnostic accuracy, integrating emerging technologies into pathology, and strengthening global health partnerships.
At UMG, he plays a key role in teaching medical students and training pathology residents, while also contributing to multidisciplinary cancer diagnostics and research initiatives.
Assoc. Prof. Felix Manirakiza is an associate professor of Anatomical and Molecular Pathology at the University of Rwanda and senior consultant pathologist at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK). He is actively involved in diagnostic pathology, medical education, and research, with a strong focus on strengthening pathology services and training in Rwanda.
He has extensive experience in surgical pathology and is committed to improving diagnostic capacity through mentorship of medical students and pathology residents. His academic and professional work emphasizes capacity building, quality improvement in diagnostic services, and the advancement of pathology practice in resource-limited settings.
Assoc. Prof. Manirakiza also plays a key role in national and international collaborations aimed at enhancing pathology infrastructure, promoting knowledge exchange, and supporting the integration of innovative technologies in diagnostic medicine.
Dr. Djibril Mbarushimana is a senior pathologist and head of Pathology department at the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (CHUB). He is deeply involved in diagnostic pathology, medical education, and research in Rwanda. He is actively engaged in improving pathology services through teaching, mentorship, and participation in clinical diagnostics.
In addition to his medical expertise, he has a strong background in health informatics and information technology, with a proven track record of developing high-tech health information systems. His work bridges clinical pathology and digital innovation, contributing to the design and implementation of technology-driven solutions in healthcare.
Dr. Mbarushimana also contributes to collaborative initiatives aimed at improving pathology infrastructure and promoting the adoption of innovative, technology-enabled approaches to diagnostic medicine in Rwanda.
Dr. Evode Mbabazi is a doctor of medicine and pathologist in training at the University of Rwanda, College of Medicine and Health Sciences. He is actively involved in diagnostic pathology, research, and medical education, with a strong interest in advancing modern pathology services in Rwanda.
His work focuses on integrating digital pathology and innovative technologies into diagnostic practice to improve accuracy, efficiency, and access to specialist expertise. He is committed to strengthening pathology education through the development of digital learning tools and case-based teaching resources for students, residents and local pathologists.
Dr. Mbabazi is also engaged in research and collaborative initiatives aimed at improving diagnostic capacity, reducing turnaround time, and promoting the adoption of digital health solutions within Rwanda’s healthcare system.