By Kemo Kanyi
The Centre for Research and Policy Development (CRPD) has commenced a week-long training programme for young researchers on credible and evidence-based research methods.
The research and data collection training, organized under CRPD’s Xam Xam Summer Research Fellowship, is being conducted in partnership with the School of Social Sciences and Humanities Students’ Association (SoSHSA) and SUP DECO Banjul Campus at the University of The Gambia’s Faraba Campus.
CRPD said the training brings together students and young researchers from the partner institutions to strengthen their understanding of research and equip them with practical skills to conduct credible, ethical and evidence-based research.
The initiative forms part of CRPD’s broader efforts to promote a culture of research, critical thinking and evidence-based decision-making among young people.
Mr Biran Gai, facilitator of the training, highlighted the importance of research in understanding societal challenges and generating evidence to inform policies, programmes and decision-making.
He introduced participants to various research methodologies and data collection techniques, with emphasis on the effective collection, organisation and analysis of information.
“A key component of the training is also the emphasis on research ethics and responsible data collection,” Mr Gai said.
He said participants were being guided on the importance of respecting research participants, maintaining confidentiality, obtaining informed consent and ensuring that data is collected and handled responsibly.
“These principles are essential to producing research that is both credible and respectful of the communities and individuals involved,” he added.
According to Mr Gai, participants will engage in interactive sessions, group discussions, practical exercises and other learning activities throughout the week to deepen their understanding of the research process.
He said the training would also provide participants with opportunities to ask questions, exchange ideas and learn from one another while developing practical research and data collection skills.
Mr Gai added that the Xam Xam Summer Research Fellowship demonstrated CRPD’s commitment to investing in young people and creating opportunities for students to develop skills that could contribute to research and policy development.