The AU-3S programme aims to improve countries’ capability in signal detection in a very practical way through the AU-3S JSM Group Secretariat. For more information about the JSM Group and JSM Group Secretariat, please click here. On a fortnightly basis, a data mining run is performed based on latest available data in the DISD system. Country representatives on the secretariat take rotating turns performing all lead analyses activities for the latest data mining run performed. These activities are grouped by three categories: signal detection, signal validation, and signal prioritisation. The representative leading the data mining run cycle analysis is also responsible for facilitating the discussions in terms of both findings and potential recommendations – with both the Secretariat and AU-3S JSM Group. All other countries are involved in these discussions to promote knowledge sharing with every data mining run performed. All activities are supported by AUDA-NEPAD and the MHRA to ensure that the representatives receive sufficient guidance, can raise any questions, and can have their work reviewed for inputs and feedback as required.

This approach has provided exposure to activities that many representatives had no / little experience with, such as learning how to read and interpret disproportionality assessments such as empirical Bayesian geometric mean (EBGM).

Furthermore, the JSM Group forum encourages sharing of knowledge (perspectives, best-practices, etc.) between all members with different areas of expertise. This includes valuable technical support from reference regulatory authorities to African regulatory authorities. Country representatives can then bring new capabilities and learnings to their national safety committees and organisations.