21 July 2022
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Story Leonie Bolleurs
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Photo Supplied
Mpho Magwalivha believes a PhD degree or programme is not meant to reward a person with the title of ‘Dr’, but to channel you into becoming a researcher in practice and writing.
These two characteristics are also an essential part of Magwalivha’s current journey in the University Staff Doctoral Programme (USDP).
The USDP, which falls under the University Capacity Development Programme (UCDP), is a doctoral training programme aimed at developing a cohort of ten academically excellent, competent doctoral staff members (five from the University of the Free State
and five from the University of Venda) in the field of global health.
This initiative, which provides funding for clinicians to obtain a PhD qualification, is a collaboration between the University of the Free State, the University of Venda, and the
University of Virginia (UVA)
in the United States.
Magwalivha has been accepted into the programme and is working towards completing his PhD under the guidance of a home supervisor as well as mentors from the University of Virginia with a strong international leadership pedigree in global health.
In an interview, Magwalivha revealed more about his USDP journey.
How has your background shaped the life and academic path you have chosen?
Growing up in a somewhat disadvantaged setting has driven my desire to venture on a health-related career path. That is why I studied microbiology.
What drew you to the USDP project’s call?
The call was related to global health, which links to my interest and my registered PhD project.
My nomination for the USDP programme provided me with the opportunity to also collaborate with other researchers. I believe their input in the process is valuable and will lead to the advancement of my career.
Please tell us more about your research.
I am studying the sapovirus – one of the enteric viruses reported to be associated with viral gastroenteritis in all age groups. My project focuses on children under five years of age.
Unfortunately, the pandemic had a negative effect on my project, especially in terms of sampling, as I was not allowed to visit any clinics or hospitals. Additionally, delays in acquiring reagents from suppliers, especially outside of South Africa, also
posed a challenge.
Worldwide, diarrhoea is one of the major diseases affecting people, especially among young children. Enteric viruses are one of the causative agents in this burden of disease. My project will add valuable scientific data to the field. – Mpho Magwalivha
Global health is one of the critical issues for the future of the human species, especially in Africa, where both infectious and non-communicable diseases threaten development. What will your project contribute to the field?
Worldwide, diarrhoea is one of the major diseases affecting people, especially among young children. Enteric viruses are one of the causative agents in this burden of disease. My project will add valuable scientific data to the field.
Besides passing information on how the transmission of pathogens occurs, which can lead to outbreaks within communities, my aim is also to provide recommendations and means of educating the society on how to control or prevent diarrhoea infection.
What are your future career plans? How will a PhD qualification assist you in reaching these goals?
My endgame is research. I believe the skills I am acquiring during this PhD will enable me to venture into research.
Following my PhD, I will apply for a postdoctoral programme. I reckon this will not only put me in a position to work on my research, but also to produce work that can really make a difference in communities.
What is your advice for aspiring PhD candidates?
A PhD degree or programme is not meant to reward a person with the title of ‘Dr’, but to channel you into becoming a researcher in practice and writing. When it really gets tough, it is an indication that you are on the right track …