When the Covid-19 pandemic unfolded, Dr Andrew Rabontsi Motsilanyane saw how global and local health systems reacted under pressure and where they failed.
This experience prompted him as a chemistry PhD graduate, former lecturer in the Faculty of Educations and recently completed an LLB from North-West University (NWU) to shift his focus from how medicines are developed to addressing the gaps in the legal and regulatory frameworks that guide medicine and vaccine development.
His observation during the pandemic was that regulatory gaps allowed pharmaceutical companies to operate without sufficient oversight.
“The pandemic showed that scientific progress without clear legal direction creates risk,” he says. “We need systems that ensure accountability in how medicines are developed and used. Research can inform solutions, but implementation depends on governance.”
Now based at the university’s Law Clinic at the Mahikeng campus, Dr Motsilanyane is focusing on how legal tools can support pandemic response. His work is aimed at strengthening frameworks that govern vaccine development, with attention to safety, transparency, ethics and access.
Scientific foundation informs his approach to law
Previously, his chemistry research centred on HIV drug development. His doctoral work examined the HIV-1 protease enzyme, which plays a role in how the virus replicates. By studying this process, he explored ways to interrupt the virus’s lifecycle and contribute to treatment development.
The study used computer-aided drug design and molecular simulations to identify possible virus inhibitors, contributing to ongoing research on antiviral treatment. He says this scientific foundation informs how he approaches legal questions at the intersection of medicine and public health.
Dr Motsilanyane has been connected with the NWU since 2001. He completed a BSc, followed by studies in education and psychology, then specialised in chemistry through honours, master’s and doctoral degrees. His qualifications include a postgraduate certificate in education and music studies through Trinity College.
He worked as a teacher for 13 years before lecturing in the Faculty of Education at the NWU. Outside academia, he serves as a pastor at Saviours Embassy Church International, as well as an author and composer.
Versatile, curious and committed to making an impact, whether in chemistry or the law or both, Dr Motsilanyane is a researcher who can be counted on to use his expertise for the public good.
Dr Andrew Rabontsi Motsilanyane has completed a law degree at NWU to address regulatory gaps in pharmaceutics and medicine development exposed during Covid-19.
