The University of the Free State (UFS) is proud to announce that Dr Phindile Shangase, Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Health Sciences and academic leader, has been selected for the highly competitive Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Programme (CADFP).

The CADFP links African-born academics based in the United States and Canada with universities across Africa to strengthen teaching, research, and mentorship. As part of her fellowship, Dr Shangase will host Dr Mufaro Kanyangarara, Assistant Professor at the University of South Carolina.

Reflecting on the award, Dr Shangase said, “When I received the news that I had been selected as part of the CADFP, I felt deeply honoured and humbled. The recognition affirmed not only my academic journey and professional contributions, but also the value of creating meaningful global collaborations.”

Collaborative project for public health impact

Dr Shangase’s project will focus on collaborative curriculum development, designed to enhance education, research, and mentorship through diaspora partnerships. The initiative aims to strengthen research skills among postgraduate students, with a particular focus on addressing the quadruple burden of disease faced by low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

“This project will empower students to contribute to global health knowledge through impactful research and publications. It also aligns with the UFS’ strategic vision, Vision 130, which emphasises global collaboration in teaching and research,” she explained.

Dr Kanyangarara brings expertise in global health, epidemiology, and biostatistics, while Dr Shangase contributes extensive knowledge of public health teaching and the social determinants of health. Their complementary strengths will help shape the next generation of public health professionals.

Building capacity and global partnerships

The fellowship is expected to prepare students for leadership roles in public health, both locally and internationally. Opportunities for exchange and exposure to global collaborations will broaden their academic and professional horizons.

Looking beyond the fellowship, Dr Shangase noted that sustainability will be achieved through continued collaboration. “Dr Kanyangarara will remain involved as a collaborator in curriculum development and as a hybrid guest lecturer and research fellow. Sustainability will also be fostered through joint research initiatives, co-authored publications, and grant proposals.”

Advice for emerging scholars

Encouraging young academics, Dr Shangase said, “Remain steadfast in pursuing excellence while staying grounded in the unique contexts and needs of our continent. International fellowships such as the CADFP are not only about personal achievement, but also about creating meaningful impact through collaboration, mentorship, and knowledge exchange.”