Doctor Duo: Nelson Mandela University Graduate Achieves Rare PhD and MBChB Feat

Key Takeaways

Dr. Arumadri Bako has completed a PhD in Conflict Management and an MBChB, making her an expert in both medical and societal perspectives on human wellbeing.
Her research focused on the implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 and the representation of women in leadership positions in Ugandan security institutions.
Bako’s journey was marked by challenges, including balancing studies in two different countries and fields, and overcoming personal losses and depression.
She credits her supervisors, friends, and family for their support and encouragement throughout her journey.
Bako’s dual perspective as a medical doctor and conflict management expert allows her to design interventions that are practical, people-centred, and informed by the bigger picture.

Introduction to Dr. Arumadri Bako
Dr. Arumadri Bako is a remarkable individual who has achieved great success in her academic and professional pursuits. She has completed a series of medical qualifications, including a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degree, as well as an MBA from India and a Master of Gender, Peace and Security from Ghana. Additionally, she has earned a Doctoral Degree in Conflict Management from Mandela University. Bako’s decision to pursue a PhD and an MBChB concurrently was driven by her commitment to addressing human wellbeing from both medical and societal perspectives.

Background and Education
Bako’s journey to becoming a medical doctor and conflict management expert began in her home country, where she completed her initial medical qualifications. She later pursued further education in India and Ghana, obtaining an MBA and a Master’s degree in Gender, Peace and Security. Her PhD research at Mandela University, co-supervised by Professor Ntsikelelo Breakfast and Professor Victor Ojakorotu, focused on the implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 and the representation of women in leadership positions in Ugandan security institutions. Bako’s thesis highlighted both institutional barriers and opportunities for advancing gender equality within the security sector.

Balancing Studies and Personal Life
Bako’s journey was not without challenges, as she had to balance her studies in two different countries and fields. She enrolled for her PhD in 2020 and later for the MBChB in 2021, which required careful time management, adaptability, and discipline. Additionally, she faced personal losses, including the death of her mother in 2020 and her father in 2021, which led to periods of breakdown and depression. Despite these challenges, Bako persevered, crediting her supervisors, friends, and family for their support and encouragement.

Challenges and Triumphs
Bako’s experience working with Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, specifically within the police health services, gave her practical insight into the intersection of health and security. She realized that health and peace are inseparable and that institutions and policies needed strengthening. Her research and studies have equipped her with a unique perspective on the impact of conflict and instability on individual health and the policies, leadership, and systems needed to prevent or resolve those crises. Bako’s dual perspective as a medical doctor and conflict management expert allows her to design interventions that are practical, people-centred, and informed by the bigger picture.

Conclusion and Legacy
Dr. Arumadri Bako’s journey represents years of sacrifice and discipline, and stands as proof of women’s excellence in spaces historically dominated by men. Her completion of a PhD in Conflict Management and an MBChB simultaneously serves as motivation for women, particularly African women, that their dreams are valid and achievable. Bako’s legacy will continue to inspire and empower women to pursue their goals, and her work will contribute to advancing gender equality and promoting peace and security in her community and beyond.