Anointed’s journey from Nigeria to public health leadership

Why did you choose to pursue an MSc in Public Health (Management and Leadership)?

I pursued the MSc in Public Health Management and Leadership because I wanted to help improve healthcare in Nigeria, where poor management is an issue. The program gave me the perfect mix of public health knowledge and leadership skills to make a difference. I found the modules on health services management and healthcare financing especially valuable—they taught me how to create practical, cost-effective solutions for underserved communities. Learning from experts like Dr. John Richmond and Dr. Robert Akparibo fueled my passion for maternal and child health. This experience really sharpened my leadership abilities and prepared me to make a meaningful impact where it’s needed most.

What attracted you to study at the University of Sheffield?

I chose the University of Sheffield for its strong reputation, Russell Group membership, and outstanding Public Health programs. The MSc in Public Health (Management and Leadership) stood out for its well-rounded curriculum that blends theory with practical skills, perfect for advancing in healthcare management. Sheffield’s high ranking and the global reputation of its School of Health and Related Research gave me confidence in the quality of education. The university’s commitment to social responsibility and tackling global health challenges aligned with my goals, making it the ideal place for me to grow both personally and professionally.

What aspects of the course did you find most valuable, and why?

The most valuable parts of the course were the modules on economic evaluation and healthcare financing, and leading and managing health services. The economic evaluation module taught me how to assess cost-effectiveness in resource-limited settings, which is crucial for sustainable healthcare solutions. The leadership module provided practical insights into managing healthcare, including quality improvement and team dynamics. Applying these concepts through case studies and presentations helped me connect theory with practice and built my confidence in tackling real-life healthcare challenges.

How did you get support from the faculty and staff at the University?

The support from the faculty and staff at the University of Sheffield was incredible. From day one, I felt like they genuinely cared about my success. My teachers were not just experts in their fields, but also really approachable. Whether I had a quick question or needed a deeper conversation about a topic, they were always available to help. Their openness made a huge difference in how comfortable I felt reaching out and getting the most out of my studies.

The university also offered great support systems like mentoring programs and workshops, which were helpful. These resources provided extra guidance and reassurance whenever I needed it, allowing me to focus fully on my studies. Overall, the support from everyone at Sheffield made my experience there both enjoyable and enriching.

How has this course shaped your career or future professional plans?

The MSc in Public Health has had a major impact on my career as a Junior Clinical Fellow in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Queen Elizabeth Hospital and my work with the Izibealua Foundation. The program expanded my focus from individual patient care to improving healthcare systems and processes. Key modules on healthcare management and leadership have equipped me with the skills to approach my work more strategically and effectively. 

My passion for maternal and child health has been further fueled by this course, inspiring me to pursue leadership roles that enhance healthcare delivery in underserved communities. I am now dedicated to organising free medical outreaches, advocating for better healthcare policies, and leading initiatives to improve care quality. The MSc program has given me the confidence and tools to specialise in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and it has opened up exciting opportunities to influence healthcare policy and practise for equitable access to quality care.

What advice would you give to prospective students considering the MSc Public Health (Management and Leadership) course?

Start preparing for assessments early to manage the intense coursework effectively. Make full use of library and IT resources to support your research and assignments. Engage with the Careers Hub for guidance on job searching, resume building, and interview preparation. Dive into practical work through case studies and projects to gain hands-on experience. Actively network with students, faculty, and professionals to gain valuable advice and opportunities. Don’t hesitate to seek support and mentorship from professors. Focus on developing your leadership skills by engaging with relevant modules and resources. Stay organised by using planners to manage deadlines and balance your workload. Participate actively in class discussions and reflect regularly on what you’ve learned to apply it to your career goals. Being proactive and utilising all available resources will help you get the most out of the program.