PRETORIA – November 05, 2026 -- NTL HEALTHCARE proposed local clinical validation and hospital pilots in South Africa for CerviCARE AI, an on-device cervical screening tool that works offline and analyzes images in approximately five seconds.
NTL cites 98% sensitivity for high-grade lesions in a 2024 study
Executive Vice President Dr. Jake Byun presented the solution at the 2026 Korea-South Africa Future Dialogue, co-hosted by the Korean Embassy and the Korea-Africa Foundation. He said NTL's cervical screening expertise dates to 1996 and covers more than eight million cases. A 2024 Scientific Reports study reported 98% sensitivity for high-grade lesions.
Byun said CerviCARE AI could support assessment, referral, treatment and follow-up after positive HPV results. It would not replace HPV testing or clinical judgment.
NTL seeks talks with South African authorities on regulation and commercialization
Alongside pilots, NTL proposed discussions with South African authorities on regulatory and commercialization pathways. "Building local evidence with healthcare professionals is essential for sustainable adoption," Byun said.
Government and WHO speakers frame AI as a public health cooperation track
David Malcomson, Acting Deputy Director-General for Asia and the Middle East at South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation, proposed collaboration on public health AI, digital literacy, youth skills and joint training. Outcomes would advance through the Korea-South Africa Joint Ministerial Commission.
A WHO programme manager stressed responsible AI that supports human judgment, equity and universal health coverage. The manager also called for connecting Korea's medical AI and regulatory expertise with South African tuberculosis and HIV data. WHO Representative to South Africa Shenaaz El-Halabi also addressed AI in global health.
NTL supplies CerviCARE AI in more than 20 countries and targets Latin America next
Following commercialization in Paraguay, NTL plans to expand its Latin American healthcare and distribution network. It will enter markets in phases according to local regulations and needs. African universities, hospitals and healthcare companies interested in cooperation can contact the company at global@ntllab.com.