The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), in collaboration with the University of Pretoria, University of Zululand, Sol Plaatje University, and Midlands State University (Zimbabwe), proudly announces the Sixth Annual Emerging and Established African Researchers Training Academy. Scheduled to take place virtually from Monday, 28 July to Friday, 1 August 2025, this prestigious Academy continues its mission of strengthening the research capacity of scholars across the African continent.
This five-day online programme is designed to support emerging and mid-career researchers by offering comprehensive training in research methodologies, academic writing, data analysis, and professional development. Open to scholars from a broad range of disciplines and research interests, the Academy reflects a shared commitment to cultivating an empowered and interconnected African research community.
Purpose and Vision
The Academy serves as a strategic platform to build a sustainable research ecosystem in Africa. It aims to address structural barriers to scholarly development by offering accessible, high-quality training tailored to the continent’s diverse research needs. Through a multi-institutional partnership model, the Academy brings together seasoned mentors, experienced trainers, and promising researchers, promoting knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation.
Participants are encouraged to engage actively with the programme and contribute to a transformative learning environment that empowers them to conduct rigorous, relevant, and impactful research. The vision is not only to develop individual research excellence but also to foster collective contributions to Africa’s development agenda.
Programme Structure
The Academy will be hosted virtually via Zoom, with sessions running daily from 09:00 to 16:00. The first day features foundational sessions that all participants are expected to attend. From Day 2 onwards, the Academy offers multiple parallel tracks each day, allowing participants to customise their learning based on specific interests and training needs. The Academy Programme—available for download—provides detailed information on session content, trainers, and Zoom links for each track.
To ensure maximum engagement and effectiveness, the Academy incorporates a structured daily schedule that includes a one-hour lunch break and two 30-minute tea breaks. Participants can choose to remain within one track throughout a day or switch between tracks, depending on their interests.
Key Learning Areas
The Academy focuses on five key thematic areas:
- Research Foundations: Participants are introduced to the core principles of research design, theoretical frameworks, and research ethics. These modules are designed to strengthen participants’ ability to develop sound research questions and apply robust methodologies to complex problems.
- Literature Mastery and Evidence Synthesis: These sessions equip researchers with the skills to conduct advanced literature reviews, systematic evidence syntheses, and develop comprehensive bibliographic databases using state-of-the-art techniques.
- Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods: A balanced focus on both methodologies ensures that participants gain hands-on experience with advanced statistical techniques as well as qualitative methods such as photovoice, ethnography, and digital storytelling.
- Digital and Analytical Tools: This component covers data analysis tools such as STATA, SPSS, and Atlas.ti. Researchers are also introduced to modern data visualisation practices that enhance the presentation and interpretation of findings.
- Academic and Professional Development: The Academy supports career advancement by offering guidance on academic publishing, grant proposal writing, research dissemination, and professional communication. Sessions also explore leadership skills and strategies for research impact.
Resources and Support
In addition to the live sessions, the Academy provides participants with access to a comprehensive online repository. This includes training materials, presentations, reading lists, and software tutorials. Reviewing these materials in advance is highly encouraged to enhance understanding and allow for deeper engagement during the live sessions.
Participants are also advised to consult the downloadable Academy Prospectus for a full overview of the programme, including biographies of trainers, learning outcomes, and expectations.
Commitment to Excellence
The HSRC and its partners urge participants to approach this opportunity with dedication, intellectual curiosity, and a collaborative spirit. The Academy is not only a space for acquiring technical skills but also for building networks, exchanging ideas, and imagining new possibilities for the African research landscape.
Participants are encouraged to envision the type of researcher they aspire to be, and to consider the broader societal impact of their work. The Academy aims to catalyse personal and professional growth, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive, dynamic, and impactful research community across the continent.
Registration and Access
Registration is currently open. All interested individuals should consult the Academy Programme and Prospectus before enrolling. These documents provide vital information on scheduling, session content, and Zoom access links. Registration is free and open to all African researchers committed to enhancing their academic capacity.
Contact and Further Information
For queries or technical support, participants are invited to use the dedicated contact link provided on the Academy page. FAQs are also available, addressing common questions related to registration, participation, and session logistics.
Conclusion
The Sixth Annual Emerging and Established African Researchers Training Academy is a cornerstone initiative that underscores the power of collaboration in advancing research excellence on the continent. It represents a significant investment in Africa’s scholarly future and stands as a model of accessible, high-impact academic development.