THE concept of alma mater — the “nourishing mother” — symbolizes institutions that shape not only intellect but also societal progress. Historically, centres of learning played a pivotal role in understanding and combating infectious diseases that once defined human survival. From early epidemics attributed to superstition to the scientific revolution of the 19th century, knowledge transformed public health. The work of Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch established germ theory, leading to sanitation reforms and vaccination campaigns that dramatically reduced deaths from smallpox, cholera and tuberculosis.

Yet disease patterns have evolved. According to the World Health Organization, infectious diseases still account for roughly 25% of global deaths in low- and middle-income countries. Tuberculosis alone causes about 1.3 million deaths annually worldwide, while viral hepatitis affects more than 350 million people globally. Importantly, several infectious diseases now contribute directly........

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