“I train the next generation of statisticians and data scientists” – Mumuni Napari Hanifatu

Hanifa uses her position as a lecturer to train the next generation of African computational statisticians, actuarial scientists, and data scientists. Her career is a blend of mentorship, innovation, and a dedication to building expertise that drives real-world impact:

Hello, Hanifa! Thank you for joining us today. It is wonderful to have your voice added to this cause
Thank you for the opportunity. I am happy to make my contribution.

Kindly introduce yourself to the audience
My name is Mumuni Napari Hanifatu from Tamale, Ghana. I am a lecturer and the Head of Department in Actuarial Science at Tamale Technical University. My focus is on computational statistics, where I train the next generation of statisticians and data scientists.

I also actively do research in software reliability growth modelling. This extends across multiple critical domains, including autonomous vehicles, healthcare technology systems, and other safety-critical applications where system dependability is paramount.

This expertise bridges academia and industry, which I apply in my role as Chief of Research at Mary Global Health. Here, I lead research across health technology products, including the Patient Access Terminals (PAT), MaryOS, and the MaryAI suite (AskMary and DocMary). My work involves analyzing real-world usage data, designing field studies, and validating system performance in underserved communities. I also coordinate research partnerships and academic collaborations to ensure our technology is evidence-driven, ethical, and scalable.

What motivated you to become a statistician? Was there anything in your childhood that led to this decision?
From a very young age, I was deeply curious about how the world works, especially in the field of genetics. One of my earliest scientific inspirations was Gregor Mendel, whose work I read about when I was only eight years old. I was fortunate to have parents who were deeply invested in my education. They provided learning materials, encouragement, and constant guidance, which played a major role in shaping my path.

I began my education at Peggy’s Preparatory School and later attended Tamale Girls Senior High School, where I studied science and graduated in 2012. I then proceeded to the University for Development Studies (UDS) for my undergraduate studies, where I earned a degree in Statistics in 2016. After that, I joined the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) for further training, where I earned a master’s in mathematical sciences in 2019. I later returned to UDS and completed my PhD in Applied Statistics in 2022. My research focused on software reliability growth modelling under the supervision of Prof. Nasiru Suleman.

My journey into statistics was profoundly influenced by Dr. Abukari Issaka Ibrahim, whom I consider my second father. He encouraged me to pursue statistics and helped me understand its critical importance in shaping the world. His mentorship and belief in the power of data-driven insights gave me the confidence to embark on this academic path.

What are some of the challenges you have faced on your way to becoming a statistician?
Interestingly, I was not naturally strong in mathematics at the beginning. I was a slow learner, and my strengths were more in reading and storytelling. Mathematics felt difficult and sometimes intimidating. However, I have always loved challenges. Instead of letting my difficulties discourage me, I turned them into motivation. What once felt like a weakness became the very thing I was determined to master.

What was or has been your biggest source of motivation, especially when faced with challenges?
My biggest motivation has always been my parents. I wanted to make them proud of the sacrifices they made for my siblings and me. Their belief in me gave me the confidence to keep pushing forward, even when the journey felt long and difficult.

Tell us about some of the most prestigious moments in your career journey as a statistician
I categorize my achievements into three key phases: academic excellence, international recognition, and community impact.

My academic journey reached a significant milestone when I became the youngest person to earn a PhD from the University for Development Studies (UDS). It was a moment of immense personal pride. This was only possible because I secured the competitive GETFund PhD Scholarship, which fully supported my doctoral research in statistics.

Following my PhD, I aimed to take my research to a global stage. I was honored to be awarded the Helmholtz Visiting Researcher Grant in Germany. This was a major validation of my work and allowed me to collaborate with international experts to broaden my scope.

However, I believe recognition is most meaningful when it is shared. I am deeply committed to using my platform to mentor the next generation. This led to an invitation by AIMS Ghana, my alma mater, in partnership with UNESCO, to deliver a lecture on ‘The Career of a Woman Scientist.

Most recently, this commitment was recognized when I was invited to serve as the Guest Speaker for the 25th Anniversary of Tamale Girls Senior High School, my alma mater. Standing before those young women to encourage them in their studies is, to me, an achievement equal to any grant I have received.

Who is Hanifa when not wearing a statistician’s hat?
I am a firm believer that rest fuels productivity. When I’m not working, I love reading, watching movies, and connecting with friends and family, especially my husband. These moments help me stay grounded and ensure I bring my best self to my professional work.

What is your favorite quote?
“I refuse to succumb to society’s status quo” ~  Anonymous.

What are your words of encouragement for a young girl interested in becoming a statistician?
You are enough. You can, and you must, strive to become. Do not let anyone define your limits for you.

Thank you, Hanifa, for sharing your journey with us. We believe your story will inspire more statisticians out there. We look forward to celebrating more of your work soon.