In January 2016, Africhild centre held an inter-university consultative meeting to discuss collaboration with six universities in Uganda on research and mentorship of young researchers.
Participants identified a dearth of skilled researchers as a critical challenge in rigorous research.
Africhild Centre’s strategic plan focuses on building a cohort of the next generation of researchers and practitioners.
In line with its Strategic Plan, Africhild has commenced on the process of bridging this gap by conducting a two-day training for 32 researchers (14 female and 18 male). Participants were drawn from six universities namely Kyambogo University (4 participants), Uganda Christian University, Mukono (5 participants), Uganda Martyrs University, Nkozi (2 Participants), Makerere University (9 participants), Nsamizi University (5 Participants) and Gulu University (3 participants). The two-day training was facilitated by Professors from Columbia University; Prof. Les Roberts and Prof. Neil Boothby and Associate Professor Amy Ritterbusch from Colombia University.
The training focused on quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods with examples being drawn from various studies that experienced flaws and approaches that work best. Participants were introduced to NVIVO, the qualitative data analysis software, which they appreciated and embraced. The trainers used various training approaches ranging from Lessons, group exercises and lecture method. The participants were also trained on principles and practices of participatory action research, qualitative and participatory data collection techniques internal and external validity checks that should be undertaken before interpreting data.
