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Mary Nyakato | social sciences | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral student, Makerere University, Uganda

Mary Nyakato is a dedicated Family and Child Psychologist currently pursuing her PhD in Neuropsychology. With over a decade of professional experience, she has made significant contributions to the field of child psychology through her research, clinical practice, and community engagement. Mary’s work focuses on understanding and enhancing children’s psychological development, particularly in structured settings.

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Scopus Profile

Education

Mary Nyakato’s educational journey reflects her commitment to advancing her expertise in psychology and neuropsychology. She earned her Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Chester in the United Kingdom (2015-2016), where she gained a solid foundation in theoretical and practical aspects of psychological practice. Prior to this, Mary completed her Bachelor’s degree at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda, from 2007 to 2010, establishing her initial grounding in the field. Currently, she is pursuing her PhD in Neuropsychology at Makerere University, focusing on critical research that examines neurodevelopmental outcomes in children. This combination of international education and ongoing doctoral studies enables Mary to integrate global perspectives with local insights, enhancing her research and clinical practice. Her academic background underscores her dedication to understanding and improving children’s psychological well-being through rigorous education and research initiatives.

Professional Experience

Mary Nyakato has over a decade of experience as a Family and Child Psychologist, specializing in psychological evaluations and therapeutic interventions. Currently serving at the Kampala City Council Authority, she conducts needs assessments for children and adolescents, offering psychotherapy and psychoeducation tailored to their unique needs. Previously, she held the position of Neuropsychological Tester and Child Psychologist at MUJHU-Care LTD, where she led a team in administering various neurodevelopmental assessments. Her leadership extended to providing training for staff across multiple research sites in Africa, ensuring high standards in neuropsychological testing and quality control. Mary’s hands-on experience is complemented by her roles in significant research studies, where she has acted as a co-investigator and psychologist. Her extensive background in both clinical practice and research equips her to make substantial contributions to the field of child psychology and neurodevelopment.

Research Interests

Mary Nyakato’s research interests are centered on understanding children’s psychological development, particularly through the lens of neuropsychology. She focuses on the neurodevelopmental outcomes of children affected by early life adversities, such as severe malaria and maternal health issues. Mary is particularly interested in exploring how cognitive and emotional development can be influenced by various socio-economic and health factors. Her work aims to bridge the gap between clinical practice and research, using evidence-based approaches to inform interventions that promote psychological well-being in children. Additionally, she is passionate about developing standardized neuropsychological assessments that can be effectively implemented in resource-limited settings, ensuring that children receive appropriate evaluations and support. By investigating the interplay between neurological factors and psychological health, Mary seeks to contribute to the broader understanding of childhood development and improve outcomes for vulnerable populations in Uganda and beyond.

Award and Recognition

Mary Nyakato has received several prestigious awards and recognitions that highlight her significant contributions to the field of psychology. In 2023, she was awarded a research grant from the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MAKRIF) for her project focused on the neurodevelopmental outcomes of early life infections among Ugandan children. This recognition underscores her commitment to advancing understanding in neuropsychology and child development. Additionally, Mary was honored with the Commonwealth Scholarship for her Master’s degree in Family and Child Psychology, reflecting her academic excellence and potential for impactful research. Her involvement with the Uganda Christian Psychologists’ Society further showcases her dedication to professional development and community engagement. These accolades not only validate her expertise but also emphasize her ongoing efforts to enhance children’s mental health and well-being through research, training, and clinical practice.

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Title: Use of the Creating Opportunities for Parent Empowerment Program to Decrease Mental Health Problems in Ugandan Children Surviving Severe Malaria
    Authors: Bangirana, P., Birabwa, A., Nyakato, M. et al.
    Year: 2021
    Citation: Malaria Journal, 20, 267. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12936-021-03795-y
    Emojis: 🌍🧠👶
  • Title: Neurodevelopmental Effects of Ante-partum and Post-partum Antiretroviral Exposure in HIV-Exposed and Uninfected Children Versus HIV-Unexposed and Uninfected Children in Uganda and Malawi: A Prospective Cohort Study
    Authors: Boivin, M., Maliwichi-Senganimalunje, L., Ogwang, W.L., Kawalazira, R., Sikorskii, A., Familiar-Lopez, I., Kuteesa, A., Nyakato, M., Mutebe, A., Namukooli, J.L., Mallewa, M., Ruiseñor-Escudero, H., Aizire, J., Taha, E.T., & Fowler, M.G.
    Year: 2019
    Citation: The Lancet HIV.
    Emojis: 💊👶🌈
  • Title: Building Capacity in Neurodevelopment Assessment of Children in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Quality Assurance Model to Implement Standardized Neurodevelopment Testing
    Authors: Ruiseñor-Escudero, H., Familiar, I., Nyakato, M., Kutessa, A., Namukooli, J., Ssesanga, T., Joyce, C., Laughton, B., Grab, J., Chernoff, M., Vhembo, T., Fairlie, L., Kamthunzi, P., Boivin, M & the IMPAACT P1104s Team
    Year: 2018
    Citation: Child Neuropsychology, Journal on Normal and Abnormal Development in Childhood and Adolescence, 1-16.
    Emojis: 📚🧠🌍
  • Title: Neurodevelopment of Ugandan and Malawian PROMISE Exposed and Unexposed Uninfected Children at 12 and 24 Months of Age
    Authors: Boivin, M.J., Malawichi-Senganimalunje, L., Nyakato, M., Sikorski, A., Ogwang, L.W., Kawalazira, R., Mallewa, M., Familiar-Lopez, I., Horacio, E., Aizire, J., Taha, T., & Fowler, M.G.
    Year: 2016
    Citation: Conference paper presented at the International AIDS Society Meeting, Durban, RSA.
    Emojis: 🎓👶🇿🇦
Mary Nyakato | social sciences | Best Researcher Award

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