# Advancing Women in Science: HIPH's Commitment Under the Women's Empowerment Principles
As a proud signatory to the Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs), the Harare Institute of Public Health (HIPH) is committed to advancing gender equality through meaningful investment in women's education, leadership development, and professional growth. We believe that empowering women in science and healthcare is not only a matter of equity, but a strategic imperative for strengthening health systems and improving patient outcomes.
In line with this commitment, HIPH supported three outstanding pharmacists to pursue their Master of Science in Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Zimbabwe, under the academic supervision of Dr Marume, a respected member of the HIPH leadership team. Their journeys represent more than academic achievement, they embody institutional transformation through women's empowerment. Through this commitment, we are proud to spotlight:
## Nomelo Mandibatsira: MSc Clinical Pharmacology | Academic & Clinical Pharmacist
Nomelo Mandibatsira is a pharmacist and clinical pharmacologist who completed her Master of Science in Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Zimbabwe. Her postgraduate journey marked a transformative milestone in her professional development.
For Nomelo, the Master's degree represented more than an academic qualification; it deepened her clinical reasoning, strengthened her research competence, and refined her ability to critically evaluate therapeutic interventions. The programme enhanced her expertise in pharmacotherapeutics, drug safety, and evidence-based medicine, empowering her to bridge theory and clinical practice with greater precision and confidence.
Today, Nomelo embodies the dual role of Academic and Clinical Pharmacist, applying advanced pharmacological knowledge to support rational medicine use while mentoring students and contributing to improved patient outcomes. Her journey reflects HIPH's commitment to cultivating women leaders in health sciences who are equipped to transform healthcare delivery in Zimbabwe.
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## Prudence Yeukai Dambiko: MSc Clinical Pharmacology | Lecturer & Researcher
Prudence Yeukai Dambiko earned her Master of Science in Clinical Pharmacology from the University of Zimbabwe. This opportunity significantly expanded her research capabilities and strengthened her foundation in pharmacotherapeutic evidence and drug safety science.
Her Master's training allowed her to undertake research, including toxicity profiling of medicinal plant extracts, contributing to the growing scientific evaluation of traditional and alternative medicines. The experience sharpened her analytical skills and deepened her commitment to evidence-informed pharmaceutical practice.
Currently lecturing National Certificate and Diploma students in Pharmaceutical Technology and Dispensary Assistance at HIPH, as well as pharmacy students at the University of Zimbabwe, Prudence applies her advanced training directly to teaching and mentorship. For her, the Master's degree represents a platform for multiplying impact, equipping future pharmacy professionals with stronger scientific grounding and ethical practice standards. Her story demonstrates how targeted investment in women's postgraduate education strengthens both academic institutions and national health systems.
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## Ropafadzo Naome Madondo: MSc Clinical Pharmacology | Head of School of Pharmacy, HIPH
Ropafadzo Naome Madondo recently completed her Master of Science in Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Zimbabwe. The programme significantly elevated her leadership capacity and strengthened her integration of clinical pharmacology into public health education.
For Ropafadzo, the Master's qualification was instrumental in refining her strategic vision for pharmacy education. It enhanced her ability to align curriculum development with evidence-based therapeutics, pharmacovigilance, and health systems priorities. The rigorous academic and research training deepened her commitment to quality assurance, academic excellence, and institutional growth.
As Head of the School of Pharmacy at HIPH, she now leverages her advanced expertise to guide programme development, mentor students and faculty, contribute to grant initiatives, and strengthen community outreach focused on rational medicine use. Her academic advancement directly reinforces HIPH's broader mission of building resilient, research-driven, and gender-inclusive health education systems. Ropafadzo's journey illustrates how investing in women's postgraduate specialization strengthens leadership within institutions and contributes to sustainable public health transformation.