From student to Programme Leader - Anthony's story

My name is Adeolu Anthony Olagunju. Around here, I go by Anthony. I was born and raised in Nigeria and earned a Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences, specialising in Parasitology with a strong emphasis on infectious diseases and laboratory diagnostics.

A passion for public health

While I became adept at using the biomedical model to identify, diagnose, and treat communicable diseases, I found myself increasingly drawn to the social model of health. This approach emphasises disease prevention and strengthening health and social systems to promote and protect population health. This passion led me to pursue a career in public health.

Choosing Chester

It was 2011, and the hunt for the right school began. Chester quickly stood out as the perfect choice. A small yet modern city with a rich history and low crime rate meant I could move around with a reassuring sense of safety.

The Programme Leader at the time, who shared African ancestry and brought a wealth of international experience, promised a culturally competent and inspiring learning environment. And let's not forget the affordable tuition fee, which offered the chance to earn a globally recognised British degree while developing valuable public health skills that will be useful in a global context. What's not to love?

In September 2012, I began my MSc in Public Health at the University of Chester. Simply put, I loved every moment of it. A truly gifted teaching team, combined with a broad range of learning support services, gave me the tools to excel and graduate with distinction.

Volunteering – a transformative experience

I also embraced opportunities to integrate into the wider community. I volunteered at Vintage Blacon, a local non-profit dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of over-55s in Cheshire West & Chester. This experience was transformative. I spent two days a week supporting activities at the centre, forging connections with staff and service users alike.

Securing a graduate role and earning a PhD

After graduating in March 2014, I returned to Nigeria eager to put my Chester education and experiences into practice. Within a few months, I secured a role with a public health systems strengthening organisation in Abuja.

Starting as a Global Health Analyst, I worked my way up over the years to become Global Health Programmes Manager. In this role, I led initiatives to improve access to primary prevention, diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, malaria and other communicable diseases, including COVID-19.

Along the way, I also earned a PhD in Public Health from Chester. Little wonder I consider myself a 'Chester thoroughbred'! My research, rooted in social justice, explored the intersection of stigma, disability, inequalities and policy in public health.

Return to Chester

In the aftermath of the pandemic, I found myself back in Chester, this time as a Senior Lecturer in the Master of Public Health (MPH) programme. It felt like coming home – the familiar halls where I once walked as a student now buzzing with new energy. The classrooms that shaped my journey were now spaces where I could inspire and guide others.

My mission and calling – as Programme Leader for the MPH

In September 2024, I was honoured to be appointed Programme Leader – a role I see as both a privilege and a responsibility. My mission is simple: to create a transformative learning experience for our students, equipping them to become global leaders and problem-solvers. For me, it's more than a career – it's a calling. And I do this with an amazing team of colleagues.

Today, the MPH programme continues to attract a wonderfully diverse group of international students. Many come from backgrounds similar to mine, and it's a joy to exchange ideas and experiences with them.

Want to find out more?

Visit our webpages to find out more about our Master of Public Health (MPH), or chat to staff at our next Postgraduate Open Event.