Key voices inspire students to turn the HIV/Aids tide

“IF YOU want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This well-known African proverb highlights the universal and timeless truth that we are simply better together. With almost 8 billion people in the world, each with unique skills, traits, interests, contacts and resources, it’s only logical that combining these […]
Reflecting on a masterful MPhil workshop

With the “Master your master’s” workshop behind us, we asked the session chairs as well as our programme manager to reflect on the week. Some of the aspects they highlighted were the range of experts and topics, the level of student engagement and how well-organised the workshop was (with the occasional technical hiccup). Key thoughts […]
Pandemic preparation with community-led monitoring

It’s a brand-new week after all the excitement of the “Master your master’s” workshop. With such an extensive range of topics covered, there’s plenty of on-target information for our MPhils to reflect on as they continue the journey. A focus area on Friday was the importance of community mobilisation in pandemic preparedness and primary healthcare, […]
Decolonising global health

The theme of inequality and its role in hampering progress with ending the HIV/Aids pandemic continues to surface at our MPhil workshop this week, emphasising how critical it is to address this issue. Speaking on “Decolonising global health” today, Dr Catherine Kyobutungi from the Africa Population and Health Research Center in Kenya will demonstrate how […]
AI tools and academic writing – looking to the future

AI tools like ChatGPT have led to heated debates about their pros and opportunities versus their limitations and pitfalls. Whatever your view, the fact is that these tools are here to stay. But how do you make use of them in an ethical way when it comes to research and academic writing? Dr Kudzayi Tarisayi […]
Africa and the race to end Aids

Africa’s structural and socioeconomic challenges have meant that the continent has been the region hit hardest by HIV and Aids since the start of the pandemic. With several ambitious global targets, is Africa catching up or falling even further behind? Two of our 2023 master’s students – Chambalson Chambal and Mekolle Julius Enongene – shed […]
From concept to a well-structured research report

Choosing a research topic that is relevant to your field of work, speaks to your skills and experiences and stirs your heart is vital. To do your research and insights justice, it’s equally important to document your proposal and findings effectively and professionally. At the end of the day, whether you master your master’s is […]
Understanding different research methods

Quantitative and qualitative research methods have different advantages and limitations in terms of research results. Both methods have an important role to play, and their suitability depends on your research topic and objectives. You can even use both quantitative and qualitative data – known as mixed-methods research. We support our students in whichever research methodology […]
Ethics are critical to quality research

Being “ethical” can easily become an empty buzzword to impress or tick a box. Yet, ethics is at the heart of our progress as humanity across all spheres of life. Dr Chioma Ohajunwa – who recently joined the Africa Centre as a lecturer – provided valuable practical pointers on the role of ethics in quality […]
Facilitating knowledge exchange and interaction

This year’s MPhil workshop is the first time that our students will be presenting their research. We’re excited about this addition – shared knowledge and peer discussions are fundamental to generating quality research. As professionals in their own rights, our master’s students each bring their individual experiences, skills, and expertise – and by us facilitating […]