She is the eldest of her siblings and a mother of two beautiful kids and joined Nelson Mandela University in May 2018 as a lecturer, beginning her teaching career with no prior experience, following the completion of her MSc in Applied Mathematics at the University of Venda.
Dr Mulalo’s role began through the New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP), a transformative initiative that supports early-career academics in establishing their careers.
A key advantage of the nGAP programme was the reduced workload, which afforded her time to pursue her studies while receiving valuable support.
“During my time in the nGAP programme,” she reflects, “I received mentorship on both departmental and personal levels, contributing holistically to my professional development.”
The programme provided her with essential research resources and a supportive community of emerging scholars, giving her the skills, mentorship, and structure needed to advance in both research and teaching. “My journey at Mandela University has been deeply fulfilling, offering opportunities for academic growth and professional advancement.”
Dr Mulalo’s research focuses on the mathematical modelling of infectious diseases, specifically aiming to enhance the understanding of transmission and impact in neglected tropical diseases (such as soil-transmitted helminths, sleeping sickness, and dengue) and HIV.
Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Venda in 2013, followed by an Honours in Mathematics from Stellenbosch University. Earlier this year she graduated from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where her research delved into the complexities of infectious disease transmission on multiple scales.
Her doctoral studies led to one published article, two articles currently under review in DHET-accredited journals, and a presentation at an international conference.
“Completing this doctorate has been a significant milestone for both my parents and me, representing years of dedication supported by mentors, colleagues, and family.” In 2022, her research was awarded Most Impactful Research at the UKZN Postgraduate Symposium, and in 2023, she presented her findings at the Epidemics International Conference in Italy.
In her doctoral work, Dr Mulalo investigated the importance of comprehensively understanding disease transmission dynamics to uncover insights that can inform public health policy and interventions.
With the goal of reducing disease burdens on populations, her research integrates multiple scales of disease dynamics to develop predictive mathematical models. These models serve as tools for public health officials and policymakers, aiding in forecasting disease outbreaks, understanding their spread, and identifying effective control measures.
“Through simulations and data analysis,” she explains, “these models can forecast how specific interventions might reduce disease transmission, helping prevent or minimise outbreaks.”
Looking ahead, Dr Mulalo hopes to collaborate with researchers and health authorities, applying her expertise to address broader health challenges. She is also passionate about inspiring future mathematicians to pursue influential research, demonstrating the vital role that mathematics can play in addressing real-world problems.
In addition to her research, Dr Makhuvha is an associate of the National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences (NITHeCS) and serves on the steering committee for the Australia-Africa University Network for Early Career Researchers (AAUN Africa).
“It was a childhood dream to be a doctor,” she reminisces, “but my fear of blood held me back. I still remember crying over a cut from a broken mayonnaise bottle. Yet here I am, Dr Makhuvha Mulalo, against all odds.”