____________________

Young women, planning to join the science field have been advised to have a passion, be flexible, and have an interest in learning to grow their careers. 

The call was made by Prof Rhoda Wanyenze, the Dean School of Public Health, at Makerere University.

She sounded the advice, shortly after being recognized by the European Union as one of the women excelling in the field of sciences, on the International Day of Women in Science.

“Have a passion, follow your passion, with the flexibility to broaden experiences and learning, grow your capabilities, work with others, and find some fun space within your growth and service; it soothes and replenishes your energies,” said Wanyenze through her X handle.

His latest recognition comes after the Vice Chancellor's Excellence award that she received at the 74th graduation ceremony at Makerere University in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Makerere University’s scholarly excellence.

While handing over the award, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, said the introduction of the inaugural Makerere University Vice Chancellor’s Research Excellence Award is to recognize outstanding performers in research and publication.

Wanyenze is a medical doctor, a disease control professor, a researcher, and a public health professional with expert experience in infectious diseases research, particularly in HIV and TB, in maternal and child health among others.

She was recognized by the EU alongside Dr Gladys Kalema Zikusoka, a vet and founder of Conservation Through Public Health (CTPHuganda) an organization that promotes the co-existence of wildlife, humans, and livestock.

Zikusoka attributes her success to her passion for animals, wildlife conservation, and making a difference in society, and called on young people to pursue their passion.

“I would encourage a young woman to follow their dreams and the rest will follow. Young women should not be afraid of challenging societal norms to pursue their passion and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. It takes time and it’s never an easy journey,’ Zikusoka said through her X handle.

The International Day of Women in Science, which was celebrated on the 11th of February was gazetted by the United Nations, to recognize the role of women and girls in science as agents of change.

The theme for the year’s celebrations is "Women in Science Leadership: A New Era for Sustainability,"