In 2019, Field Sites Manager Chimwemwe Theu was awarded the CORE Operations Masters scholarship to study for a two-year online MSc in Project Management with the University of Essex.

“An MSc in Project Management has provided me with valuable skills and knowledge that align with my career in operational health research support and project management, in general. The study covered project planning, budgeting, risk management, resource allocation, project analytics, and contemporary project leadership, which are key areas for the management of different initiatives or programmes.

With the knowledge from this programme, I have developed the ability to plan, implement, and oversee complex projects, which could be applicable in various operational support roles and in technical leadership of health or health research, emergency, or disaster situations.

I have gained an understanding of the business and organizational aspects of operational support in health projects, including financial management, procurement, and stakeholder engagement. I will use these skills in managing resource allocation and in engaging stakeholders such as DCs, DHOs, and other local government decision-makers”.

Theu’s role at MLW is to support the smooth and successful implementation of studies nested in the MLW field sites. This requires rapid and proactive approaches in responding to the operational challenges that may affect conducting excellent science. Chimwemwe uses his project management skills to plan and execute stakeholders’ interests and influence decisions to accommodate projects, and allocate MLW space, resources, and infrastructure from where projects can be conducted.

I want to thank MLW through the Training and Development Committee for the scholarship, my line manager, and my colleagues for providing the right environment that facilitated the completion of my studies.

The operations masters scholarships are awarded to staff who intend to study for programmes that will contribute to personal growth and to the delivery of the overall departmental goals and aligns well with the training strategy and MLW’s mission.

Theu’s work has been in project management in areas of public health services delivery and systems, livelihood, disaster, and humanitarian, and currently, in health research support.

                                                           Well Done, Chimwemwe Theu!