In line with Reckitt's commitment to advancing health, hygiene, and supporting women in science, we are thrilled to showcase the outstanding research contributions of our four PhD students. Each of these dedicated Women are tackling critical health & hygiene challenges in their communities, with the aim of driving impactful change—reflecting Reckitt's belief that access to high-quality hygiene, health and nutrition is a universal right. Their projects highlight both innovative solutions and personal journeys as they navigate their paths in the scientific community.
Rebecca Prah's PhD research focuses on the economic evaluation of school-based menstrual health interventions in Uganda, aiming to improve adolescent girls' quality of life by providing valuable economic evidence for policy decisions. Jenala Chipungu investigates weaning food hygiene behaviours in Zambia, aiming to document food contamination and pilot interventions to enhance hygiene practices in low-income communities, thereby reducing childhood diarrhoea. Liliana Cândida Dengo-Baloi's work in Maputo assesses handwashing practices and infrastructure's role in early childhood exposure to enteric pathogens, with findings aimed at informing future health interventions. Christine Nabirye explores the effectiveness of hygiene interventions in Kampala's informal settlements, seeking to understand the reasons for their low impact to guide better public health strategies.
“Being part of the LSHTM PhD Programme funded by Reckitt has been a transformative experience in my journey toward becoming a future leader in science. The financial support received has given me the freedom to focus on my research and developing my skills, without the constraints of worrying about funding. I have embraced the opportunity of leading and owning my research which has been a thrilling experience. This has opened doors to invaluable resources and opportunities, The mentorships I have received and networks I have forged within the school and externally have exposed me to real-world applications of my research topic. These have increased my understanding of how research can translate into real-world impact, particularly in public health and policy. This has also shifted my thinking, pushing me to consider not just the academic side of my work but how it can truly make a difference in the world. Attending conferences and workshops has been an important and interesting part of my PhD journey.” Rebecca Prah
Fulfilling one of her PhD objectives, Rebecca presented at ISQOLS conference on understanding the relationship between menstrual health factors and subjective well-being of adolescent girls in Uganda.
Jenala presented at the UNC 2024 Conference on her project, the Behavioural Change Lab's Trial for Improved Practices (TIPS), where her team piloted enhanced handwashing facilities in homes.
Each student's research not only tackles critical health issues but also highlights their journey as emerging leaders in science, supported by the mentorship and opportunities within the LSHTM PhD Programme funded by Reckitt. These exceptional women embody Reckitt’s mission to advance clean water, sanitation, and hygiene worldwide.
