Melaku Ashagrie Belete from Ethiopia is 34 years old and lives in Dessie. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science from Wollo University and completed his Master’s degree in Medical Microbiology at Mekelle University in 2017. He currently works as a Senior Lecturer and Researcher of Medical Microbiology at Wollo University.
Please tell us a bit about yourself!
I am a Medical Microbiologist and researcher with more than a decade of experience in laboratory skills, teaching and research. I am highly interested in creating solution towards the inevitable antimicrobial drug resistance through in-depth research. In my free time I enjoy exercise, exploring nature, listening to podcasts and volunteering.
My professional goal is to complete my PhD in a high tech laboratory and to contribute to scientific discoveries that tackle antimicrobial drug resistance. I also want to pursue scientific research works that will contribute to solving health related problems in developing regions such as Africa.
Which scholarships or fellowships have you received?
I received a research seed grant from Wollo University in 2022.
How did you experience the Africademics Scholarship Ambassador Programme?
I decided to apply for the programme because I am very keen to provide help to fellow scholarship seekers and students, just doing what I taught myself the hard way. I am also passionate about sharing experiences and contributing to the scientific community.
During the 5-month programme I learnt a lot about available funding opportunities globally, and how I can keep up with my studies and work with the help of Positive Psychology. I also learned a lot from my fellow Scholarship Ambassadors and enjoyed sharing my newly-acquired knowledge with my first Scholarship Mentee.
Please tell us a bit more about the Scholarship Mentee you supported!
She was a new graduate looking for MSc scholarships abroad. She had no idea where to start looking for funded scholarships, prepare the necessary documents and handle the application process. Through our regular online sessions, I helped her get new insights in terms of preparing her application documents and conducting thorough scholarship research.
Why would you recommend the Scholarship Ambassador Programme to others?
It’s a unique opportunity to learn and share! The Ambassador Programme has helped me a great deal in grasping the basics of finding scholarships and other international opportunities. The opportunity to interact with fellow Ambassadors from across Africa is also another advantage of the Ambassador Programme.
How can Africademics community members get in touch with you?
You are welcome to contact me on LinkedIn or via the Africademics online learning platform.
