By Executive Editor

A Ugandan, Fatumah Atuhaire, has graduated with a PhD in mathematics from the University of Southampton.

Atuhaire could not hide her excitement in a post on X.

Today, I officially graduate with a PhD in mathematics from the University of Southampton. I am excited. I am grateful. I am glad.

Atuhaire uses mathematics to build models that explain infectious diseases and provide insights on diagnosis, treatment, and eradication.

Her PhD research was titled “New understanding of a neglected disease”

“I believed mathematics would be a catalyst to solving problems,” says Fatumah Atuhaire. Her second Masters degree, in mathematical ecology at the African Institute of Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), South Africa, had already opened her eyes to the power of maths to solve problems in the home countries of her and her colleagues at AIMS. “I believed a PhD would open my mind to new horizons, not only in research… but in how things are done in places beyond Africa. To translate that knowledge and bring that skill set back home,” Atuhaire is quoted by Plus Maths to have said.

Atuhaire currently works at the University of Southampton as a part-time Research and Teaching Assistant, a role she started in 2019.

In 2017, she completed her Master of Philosohy – MPhil, Mathematical Biology from the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa.

“Your hardship and efforts have finally paid you with a doctorate in your hand.We are glad that you have made it to the top.Your PhD is a testament to your brilliance and tenacity.Many congratulations on your PhD degree in Mathematics!You are a winner Dr Atuhaire Fatumah,” – Sophie Ashaba Tumwesigye