Theresa Mkandawire: The first female civil engineering professor

Growing up, Theresa Mkandawire faced challenges related to societal expectations and gender biases.

It wasn’t common then for women to pursue a career in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

But because of her enthusiasm, determination and a supportive family, Theresa was encouraged to break barriers and pursue a career in engineering.

The challenges made her resilient, determined and driven to prove that women can excel in any field of their choice.

Today, Theresa Mkandawire is a role model to many women as she is the first woman in Malawi to attain a professorship in civil engineering.

She is also the first woman to be promoted to the rank of full professor in engineering at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS).

Theresa Said: “This achievement is significant because it challenges traditional gender roles and stereotypes. Becoming a professor is a significant milestone in academia. It means that I have achieved a high level of expertise and recognition in my field, allowing me to contribute to research, teaching and leadership at an advanced level.”

She admitted that for her to attain this feat, she not only broke barriers, but proved that women can excel in STEM fields.

The professor attributed her success to hard work, dedication, confidence and her late father whom she said played a crucial role in motivating her to aim high and never give up.

“I also credit my faith in God and supportive family. I hope my journey inspires other women to pursue their dreams and break gender barriers.

“The journey to a professorship was not easy, especially in a male-dominated field. I had to work tirelessly, overcome challenges and constantly strive for excellence. It involved pursuing advanced degrees, conducting research, publishing and mentoring students. It’s a testament to dedication and perseverance,” said Theresa.

Some of her key achievements include registering as a civil engineer, serving as an associate professor and dean of the faculty of engineering, as well as contributions to the body of knowledge in the field of education, water and sanitation through book chapters and peer-reviewed journal articles she has published.

Theresa has also contributed immensely to consultancies through the development of policies and strategies for the Malawi Government.

“I received an award for being the first female dean of engineering in Malawi by the Malawi Institution of Engineers in 2014. I also received the Next Einstein Forum Award for outstanding, valuable, contribution and dedication to science, engineering and technology and overcoming adversity.

“In addition, I received a RICE360 Innovation and Leadership in Global Health Award at Rice University in the US for my contribution to invention education leadership in April 2023,” she said.

The engineer said the awards serve as a reminder of the impact she has in her field.

With a vast experience in academics and being around students, Theresa believes Malawi’s future in education holds great promise.

She observed that Malawi has immense potential and with the right investments in infrastructure, technology, student and faculty development, it can provide quality education to all youths.

The award winner recognises that education is the foundation for development and is optimistic that Malawi will continue to make strides in this area.

“I would like to see Malawi embrace innovation and invest in research and development. Innovation can drive economic growth, improve living standards and address pressing challenges in all sectors of Malawi.

“I hope to see more support for innovative start-ups and initiatives that harness technology for the benefit of all Malawians,” she said.

To all girls across the country who want to excel in academics and attain her role one day, Theresa said everyone is capable of achieving anything set in one’s mind.

She added that one should believe in themselves, work hard and disallow societal expectations or gender stereotypes to hold them back.

The professor said education is a path to empowerment and success.

“You can be leaders, engineers, scientists or professors– the sky is the limit. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and never give up on your dreams,” she said.

Theresa is grateful for the scholarships that supported her education.

Overall, the academician is inspired by women who have broken barriers in STEM fields.

“And when I see girls and women, I see potential, determination and future leaders of Malawi. I absolutely believe they can reach where I am now and even

surpass my achievements. With the right support, opportunities and confidence, there is no limit to what they can achieve,” she added.

Just like any other career women, she faced challenges in balancing family and career.

Theresa admitted that striking a balance between one’s profession and family life can be difficult, but a supportive family and a flexible schedule are essential.

One of the most challenging decisions she made in her career was to pursue further education abroad.

This decision meant being separated from her family for an extended period of time.

Nonetheless, with her family’s support and understanding, she made it work and the sacrifices ultimately paid off.

When asked what she would do differently reflecting on her career journey, Theresa does not have many regrets because each decision and experience has contributed to her growth and learning.

However, if she were to consider what she could do differently, it would be to potentially take more calculated risks and seize opportunities earlier in her career.

“Sometimes the fear of the unknown or hesitation can hold us back from exploring new horizons. In hindsight, being even more proactive in seeking out challenging projects or pursuing certain opportunities could have potentially accelerated my professional development.

“Nonetheless, I value the path I took and the lessons learnt along the way as they have shaped the woman I am today,” she beamed.

Theresa was born in Mzimba and she is the first born in a family of six with two sisters and three brothers.

She is married to Gift Mkandawire and is mother to three children— Malumbo, Martha and Victoria.

Her educational journey started with primary schools in Dedza and Mzimba due to the nature of her father’s work.

She completed her primary education at St. Paul’s in Mzimba.

Then in 1984, she was selected to Lilongwe Girls Secondary School.

Later, she earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with a distinction from the then Polytechnic (now MUBAS) in 1993.

She was the only female student in her class during the degree programme.

Afterward, she worked at Structural Consultancy Services Limited, before receiving a scholarship to pursue a Master of Science degree in environmental engineering at Oklahoma State University, USA, graduating in 1996.

Theresa joined the Polytechnic as a Lecturer in 1997 and eventually became an associate professor after earning her doctorate degree from Leeds Metropolitan University, UK, in 2012.

And now in 2023, she becomes the first woman to attain professorship in civil engineering.

In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and relaxing through reading, particularly Christian books and literature related to her field.

Additionally, Theresa is involved in community outreach activities and church work, which bring her fulfilment outside her career.