Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
DISTINGUISHED biochemist and academic Dr Victor Muleya, one of the pioneers of the Midlands State University (MSU) Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, was laid to rest yesterday in his hometown of Beitbridge.
Dr Muleya, who was instrumental in establishing the Department of Biochemistry at MSU, died on Friday following complications from a surgical procedure.
Born on May 1, 1984, Dr Muleya joined MSU in January 2016 and became the inaugural chairperson of the Department of Biochemistry, a position he held until 2023 before being promoted to senior lecturer.
MSU Marketing and Communications Director Mrs Mirirai Mawere, described him as a prolific researcher and a foundational figure in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
His burial was attended by MSU students and staff, including Executive Dean of Medicine and Health Sciences Dr Reginald Matchaba-Hove, Deputy Dean Dr Fabian Maunganidze, and the chairperson of the Department of Biochemistry, Dr Michael Bhebhe.
The President of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society of Zimbabwe, Professor Stanley Mukanganyama, paid tribute to Dr Muleya for his immense contribution to the country’s medical field.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr Muleya, a distinguished biochemist, educator and researcher. His work in biochemistry and molecular cell biology has left an indelible mark on the scientific community,” he said.
“He was an esteemed member of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society of Zimbabwe (BMBSZ) and played a pivotal role in the advancement of the discipline.”
Dr Muleya’s research background spanned biochemistry, biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences. He published extensively in high-impact journals, with a focus on plant signalling, molecular biology and disease diagnostics. His pioneering research on identifying linear B-cell epitopes and metabolomics for biomarker discovery exemplified his dedication to translational research with real-world applications.
Beyond academia, Dr Muleya contributed to the pharmaceutical sector, having worked with Georen Pharmaceuticals in Johannesburg, South Africa. He also served as a sessional teaching associate and research fellow at the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
After earning his PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology from Monash University, Melbourne, Australia, in 2015, Dr Muleya chose to return home, declining lucrative offers abroad, to help establish the MSU medical school.
His commitment significantly boosted access to medical education in Zimbabwe, particularly for students from rural backgrounds.
“His contributions to the medical school have been invaluable. The establishment of the MSU medical school increased access to medical education and provided the country with skilled healthcare professionals who have helped improve healthcare services and save countless lives,” said Prof Mukanganyama.
He said Dr Muleya played a crucial role in curriculum development at MSU, ensuring it met international standards and adequately prepared students for the medical profession.
His impact extended beyond the classroom, as he was actively involved in research and community outreach programs promoting healthcare and well-being in the country.
“His contributions to the medical school have helped build capacity in Zimbabwe’s healthcare sector, ensuring the country has a steady supply of skilled healthcare professionals,” said Prof Mukanganyama.
As one of the pioneers of MSU medical school, Dr Muleya was involved in the development of the faculty’s curriculum, ensuring it met international standards and prepared students for the demands of the medical profession.
Prof Mukanganyama said Dr Muleya’s work extended beyond the classroom, as he engaged in research and community outreach programmes, which promoted healthcare and well-being in Zimbabwe.
He said Dr Muleya’s legacy extends beyond his contributions to the MSU medical school.
“He has inspired a generation of healthcare professionals and his impact on medical education and healthcare outcomes will be felt for years to come.
“I had the privilege of teaching and supervising him during his undergraduate studies, where he excelled with a first-class degree in Biochemistry. His brilliance and dedication were evident from the start,” said Prof Mukanganyama.
He said Dr Muleya was an esteemed member of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society of Zimbabwe and a pillar in the scientific community whose contributions to biochemistry and molecular cell biology have left an indelible mark.
MSU’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences enrolled its first cohort of 20 students in February 2016, comprising eight females and twelve males. The faculty offers a five-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) programme, covering foundational medical sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and behavioural sciences, alongside intensive clinical training in various disciplines.
The faculty works closely with Gweru Provincial Hospital, transforming it into a teaching hospital with clinicians at its core.
Dr Muleya’s expertise and leadership were instrumental in shaping this collaboration, ensuring the institution produced well-trained medical professionals.
Dr Muleya’s academic journey was remarkable. He earned a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from the University of the Western Cape, South Africa and a BSc (Hons) in Biochemistry from the University of Zimbabwe. His doctoral research on the mechanistic modulation of GC-linked receptor kinase, PSKR1, gained international recognition and further solidified his reputation as a leading scientist in his field.
