Meet 2024 AfOx Scholar, Fidelity Ndali (MSc Modelling for Global Health)
Fidelity Ndali is a 2024 Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholar.
Fidelty will be matriculating in October 2024 to study the MSc in Modelling for Global Health. Before applying to Oxford, Fidelity studied for an undergraduate degree in Applied Mathematics with Economics at the University of Zimbabwe. It was during this degree that he became interested in the role that mathematical modelling and quantitative analysis can play in informing public health policy, particularly for infectious diseases, and the challenges they pose to low and middle-income countries.
We asked Fidelity what his research will focus on:
I am particularly drawn to how mathematical and economic models could be used to evaluate intervention strategies, forecast disease burden, and guide resource allocation for health systems.
For example, I want to explore how mathematical modelling can be used to assess the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of malaria elimination strategies in Africa. I am interested in incorporating economic considerations, such as the impact of intervention on household-level outcomes. I believe this type of integrated analysis can generate valuable insight to support national malaria control programs.
I am especially excited about studying this at Oxford, because of the opportunity to learn from leading experts, collaborate with students from diverse backgrounds, and apply my skills to real-world challenges.
He shared his experience of the application process, and his advice for prospective applicants:
The application process was rigorous but rewarding. My main advice would be to start early, carefully review the program requirements, and be prepared to demonstrate their quantitative skills, research interests, and commitment to their chosen field. If you can, reach out to current students and alumni to get a better sense of the program.
In terms of writing personal statements, be clear about your goals and career aspirations, it will help your application be more reflective, genuine, and unique.
Fidelity shared his long-term plans with us:
l hope that this master’s degree will equip me with the necessary expertise to make a meaningful contribution to infectious disease control in Sub-Sahara Africa. I plan to join an international organisation or research institution collaborating with policymakers and practitioners on modelling projects related to malaria control and elimination. I then hope to continue my research by going on to undertake doctoral studies.