OAAD WOMEN’S NETWORK (OWN) INITIATES HANDS-ON YOUTH ACADEMIC RESEARCH TRAINING PROJECT (YARTP)

The report presented below is comprehensive; anyone interested in research will have a good time paying deep attention and for young researchers, there is much available to be learned.

1. Introduction

The OAAD Women’s Network Youth Academic Research Workshop, themed "Unlocking Potential: Academic Research Training for Africa's Next Generation Scholars," was designed to equip young undergraduate students with essential research skills, enhancing their ability to engage in critical academic inquiry. This three-day workshop, hosted by the Global Organization of African Academic Doctors’ Women’s Network (OWN), aimed at building a foundation for Africa’s next generation scholars, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to academia and society. This was achieved in collaboration with the University of Botswana Economic Society, a student movement based in the University of Botswana.

2. Objectives

The primary objectives of the workshop were:

To expose young undergraduate students to the fundamentals of academic research.
To develop participants’ abilities in critical thinking, research design, and basic data analysis.
To transfer hands-on skills on using reference management tools to participants.
To enhance participants' skills in academic writing and publication processes.
To inspire and encourage students to pursue careers and further studies in academia.

3. Participants

The project’s target audience was undergraduate students from University of Botswana. However, there was a total of 122 African students from various universities across Africa and China who joined the workshop and actively participated in all the three days of the training through the online component provided for those who are outside Botswana. A total of 15 African countries were represented, viz: Botswana, Nigeria, Lesotho, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Benin Republic, Cameroun, South Sudan, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and The Gambia. This exceeded the initial target audience planned for the project.

Participant Data by gender

GENDER	DAY 1	DAY	DAY 3
Male	56.1%	41.9%	43.5%
Female	43.9%	58.1%	56.5%

4. Workshop Overview

The workshop was structured across three intensive days, each dedicated to specific aspects of academic research. Sessions included lectures, interactive discussions, and hands-on practice. The three-day conference, held from October 3rd to October 5th, 2024, offered an intensive and insightful engagement for emerging researchers.

Day 1: Structuring a Paper or Thesis

The first day of the training focused solely on the essential structure of a research paper or thesis, themed “Structuring a Paper or Thesis.” The training was led by Engr. Abimbola Susan Ajagun, a seasoned lecturer with over 10 years of experience at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria. This session provided a comprehensive foundation, detailing the expectations for each section of a thesis and equipping participants with the tools to approach academic writing with clarity and precision. It included areas of research such as:

Session 1: Understanding Research in Academia and its Importance in the Society

Session 2: Creating a strong Thesis Title, Introduction and Abstract.

Session 3: Key Components of Research Methodologies and Ethics

Session 4: Writing and presenting the results of a research.

Session 5: Key components of a conclusion and tips for writing the references.

Interactive Activity: Group brainstorming on research topics relevant to Africa’s development. Questions and answers.

By the end of day1, the participants were able to understand the different components of a research paper or thesis and how to properly structure a thesis. See YouTube video recording for online participants day 1

Day 2: Use of Reference Management Software

The second day was anchored by Dr. Philip Atitianti, an Economist and a Senior Research Fellow at the African-China Centre for Policy and Advisory. He guided attendees through the use of reference management software, with a particular emphasis on Zotero. His session highlighted the importance of proper citation practices and efficient reference management as vital components of successful research. Day2 was a hands-on training, because the participants were guided step by step on the usage of the Zotero management software. This was ensured by a prior notice given by the facilitator to the participants to download the software in advance for a more effective learning during the training. See YouTube video recording for online participants day 2

Day 3 and the last day of the training, concluded with Dr. Moses Olabhele Esangbedo offering an expert review based on his extensive research experience. He summarized key insights from the previous days and emphasized critical best practices, outlining both the "do's" and "don’ts" of research. His reflections tied together the knowledge imparted throughout the conference, reinforcing core principles of academic excellence.

The three-day conference proved to be a highly beneficial and timely initiative for both graduate and undergraduate students at the University of Botswana, a sentiment echoed by many attendees. The knowledge imparted by distinguished researchers from OAAD came at a critical time, as many final-year students are preparing their final proposals for presentation at the end of November. The event underscored the significance of OAAD Global’s reach, extending resources beyond institutional and national borders, providing students with access to expertise from around the world. Day 3 is not available for the public in agreement with privacy policy.

5. Outcomes

The workshop achieved the following outcomes:

Enhanced Research Skills: Participants gained a foundational understanding of research methods, data analysis, and academic writing.

Increased Interest in Academia: The workshop feedback survey showed that a large number of the participants had an increased interest in academic research and higher education opportunities.

Participant Interview (University of Botswana); What I Learned About Writing Successful Research Manuscripts. Thanks UB Economics society, thanks OAAD Global

You may also see it directly on Youtube https://youtube.com/shorts/WTEvvPyCgAU?feature=share

6. Feedback

Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing appreciation for the practical and interactive nature of the sessions. Some suggested more in-depth sessions on data analysis tools, while others recommended extending the workshop to allow more time for individual mentoring. The participants expressed their joy and gratitude for being given the opportunity to learn from experts in different fields of academia. According to feedback survey conducted, 100% of the participants agreed that the training created value to them academically.

7. Challenges

Funds: Funding came through freewill donation which led to some delays and reduction in scale of certain components.
Limited Time for Hands-On Practice: With the vast areas of research handled, some participants felt that more time could have been apportioned for each day of the training or extending the days of the training, so as to allow extensive touch on areas such as literature review, data analysis and use of other reference management software beyond Zotero.
Technology Access: Not all participants had laptops, which limited access to software tools.

8. Recommendations

To further enhance the impact of future workshops:

Extend the Workshop Duration: Expanding the program to five days would allow for deeper dives into complex topics.
In future, provisions for shared resources would be beneficial.
Offer Follow-Up Support: Virtual mentorship or online resources could help participants continue building skills after the workshop.
Provide Technology Support: Ensuring laptops or tablets for all participants would maximize engagement with data analysis tools.

9. Conclusion

The three-day Academic Research Workshop was a resounding success, marking an important step in developing the research capabilities of young African scholars. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, participants left the workshop inspired and equipped to contribute to Africa's academic research landscape. At the completion of the training, all registered participants were issued their certificates of completion. We look forward to seeing the participants apply their new skills to drive positive change in their communities and institutions.

10. Appendices

10.1 Workshop Schedule

Day 1: October 3rd, 2024. | Time: 8.00 pm Beijing Time (2pm CAT).

Day 2: October 4th, 2024. | Time: 8: 00 pm Beijing Time (2pm CAT).

Day 3: October 5th, 2024. | Time: 3: 00 pm Beijing Time (9am CAT)

Participants certificates Issued on 11^th December, 2024.

Stakeholders’ badges issued on 30^th December, 2024.

10.2 YART Project Facilitator List