Celebrating Recent HAGH Graduates of 2024!
HAGH members celebrating with Dr Munzhedzi M & Ms Raphalani M (3& 4 from the left) on their graduation at the University of Venda (06 September graduation).
Congratulations Ms Raphalalani Mulalo!
Congratulations to Ms Raphalalani Mulalo on her MSc graduation in Microbiology at the University of Venda, Limpopo South Africa. Ms Raphalalani was supervised by Prof Bessong Po and Co-supervised by Dr Mavhandu-Ramarumo LG.
Her study investigated genetic diversity of human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV-8) in northern South Africa. The findings revealed a predominance of genotype B in the population. A higher frequency of nonsynonymous mutations was found in the ITAM region of A5 sequences. These mutations may negatively affect the function of ITAM in the K1 gene. This finding suggests potential implications for the virus’s pathogenicity in the region.
She graduated her MSc with a cum laude. A big congratulations to her and her supervisors.
“I am delighted to have come this far. The support from my family, friends and colleagues made this achievement possible. Thank you!
#HAGHCUMLAUDEGRADUATE2024
Congratulations Dr Munzhedzi Mukhethwa!
Congratulations to Dr Munzhedzi Mukhethwa on her doctoral graduation in Microbiology at the University of Venda, Limpopo South Africa.
This is my Academic Story!
“I’m grateful to the most high God to have finally reached this stage in my academic career. My PhD in Microbiology focused on asymptomatic malaria in Limpopo Province, South Africa and I was opportuned to conduct part of my research in my home village, Ha-Lambani. I was overjoyed as this opportunity allowed me to give back to my community, embodying the belief that “charity begins at home”. Part of my work can be accessed through the link: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12936-021-03724-z”
Her study found that the population had adequate knowledge about malaria prevention, transmission, and cause. Asymptomatic Plasmodium infection is prevalent, P. ovale significantly contributes to malaria infections in this area.
To improve prevention and control, rapid diagnostic tests and vaccines should include other Plasmodium species, and surveillance is needed for timely interventions.
Dr. Munzhedzi Mukhethwa encourages those considering further studies to believe in themselves and give their best effort. She highlights the challenges of pursuing a PhD, including sacrificing family time, difficulties in research and writing, and moments of discouragement. She emphasizes the importance of independence and self-reliance, urging individuals to be their own support system and to work hard without expecting help from others. Some of the benefits include skills in scientific writing, opportunities to work with well-equipped laboratories, travelling and sharing your knowledge with others through conferences and publications etc. “As a female black woman who grew up in the rural village of Ha-Lambani, Tshamulavhu, Limpopo Province, South Africa, I want to remind every African child that you can do it! Your background should never be a barrier to success! I am a proud product of the University of Venda! I give all the glory to God! Aa!”
“I grateful to my supervisor, Prof Bessong PO and co-supervisors: Dr Guler JL and Dr McQuade-Rogawski ET for their unwavering support throughout this journey. Thank you for believing in me. My family, colleagues of the HIV/AIDS & Global Health Research Laboratory (HAGH), and friends played an essential role in this journey. Thank you!”
“Aspire to acquire the desire that you admire. But if in the process you perspire, DON’T retire but REFIRE to acquire the desire that you admire”
“The best kind of motivation is self-driven!”