Dr Annelisa Murangi completed her schooling in Okahandja, her hometown, before applying to the University of Namibia for further studies. She wanted to pursue a career in nursing, (un)fortunately, she was accepted for her second choice – psychology. Dr Murangi completed her Bachelor of Arts degree (Industrial Psychology) before completing her MCom in Industrial Psychology through the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa.
“I cried after my 7-hour test…. I’m going back home (Namibia)”.
Not knowing what to do next and the high unemployment rate within Namibia, I started working as a tutor within the Department: Human Sciences, offering tutorials to clinical and industrial psychology students. By default, I think academia chose me, Dr Murangi reminisced.
Apart from being a dedicated wife, mother of two young children, working hard within the department, trying to progress in my career, I decided to pursue my PhD in 2020 through the North-West University in South Africa immediately after graduating with my MCom. I set different goals for myself in the different areas of life and made plans on how to execute them, Dr Murangi explained.
“During my PhD studies, I wanted to quit, thinking that I could do my PhD later…once my children are grown.”
Studying developmental psychology and knowing how critical the early years of childhood development are, I questioned my decision to continue with my PhD, Dr Murangi recalled. With the continuous support from her husband, family, colleagues within the department and PhD promoter, Dr Murangi managed to complete her PhD in less than two years (record time). Her thesis investigated the optimal functioning of special education teachers in Namibia: the effects of constraints, resources and capabilities. Apart from the joy and sense of accomplishment experienced at graduation, the support received from my family truly stood out on this journey, Dr Murangi highlighted with a smile.
My journey taught me about self-leadership, perseverance, commitment and dedication. I hope to be promoted through the ranks until full professor, to contribute to Namibia through research and education and make an impact within the field of Industrial Psychology. The aim is to become involved in national and international research with collaborators around the globe. The impact and importance of research cannot be overemphasised, Dr Murangi stressed.
Towards the end of March 2023, Dr Murangi got recognised as an extraordinary research associate at the North-West University, South Africa. This is a significant and deserving recognition after publishing three articles from her PhD within one year. This is not easily managed by many postgraduate students or full-time academics. Dr Murangi appreciates the recognition and affiliation noting that it stems from her perseverance and hard work. It is satisfying to be recognised and appreciated for all the hard work and the contributions made to the discipline, Dr Murangi explained.
The time it takes to complete a course should not be the primary focus. Some people complete their goals (PhD) within 5 years, others within 3 years but note that when you finish (because you can finish), it’s your own journey of growth and discovery. I wish to encourage fellow staff members and students to establish where they come from, where they would like to go and set plans that will ensure they meet those goals. There are so many role models within academia. It may be difficult, you may become frustrated but stay true to yourself and your dreams, Dr Murangi enthusiastically concluded.
