By Isaac Akugizibwe

KIU, Main Campus- The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS), in collaboration with the Directorate of Research, Innovations, Consultancy, and Extension (D-RICE), hosted a two-day Research and Publication Workshop on Wednesday, August 7th, and Thursday, August 8th, 2024.

Held in the scenic Iddi Basajjabalaba Memorial Library, the workshop was designed to equip both staff and students with world-class research writing and publication skills.

The first day of the workshop focused on key aspects of research, including crafting a publishable study background, writing a professional statement of the problem, and identifying valuable literature and research gaps. Day two tackled selecting the right research methodology, mastering secondary data search as well as higher degrees research advisory.

In his opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor of KIU, Prof. Muhammed Ngoma, emphasized the critical role of research and publication for both the University and its staff members.

"In academia, you should look at yourself as a miner, constantly curious and driven to uncover new knowledge. This is why we strongly encourage you to embrace research," He said.

"A university without research is a glorified secondary school," he stated.

In addition to deepening philosophical understanding and addressing real-world problems, he urged lecturers and students to consider research as a potential source of income.

"The key aspect of research, beyond the research itself, is the financial rewards it can bring. Never underestimate the value of the money that accompanies it," he concluded.

Dr. J E Ashibi, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs says that the research and Publication Workshop CHSS was a success.

"The workshop on research and publication held on August 7th and 8th, 2024, was a resounding success, marked by a high level of engagement and productivity. Participants from diverse academic backgrounds actively contributed to insightful discussions, sharing their perspectives on various aspects of research methodologies and publication strategies," he explained.

Dr. Ashibi added that “the workshop on research and publication was crucial for the staff of the college, serving as a powerful tool for professional development and academic growth."

He is confident that the workshop will play a significant role in enhancing research skills, improving publication success, fostering collaboration, advancing careers, and enhancing the institutional reputation of KIU.

Dr. Mundu Mustafa, the Assistant Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research, Innovation, Consultancy, and Extension (ADVC-RICE), emphasized the need to empower students and staff to conduct quality research.

"To get quality research from our students requires us to empower them. I want to commend the College of Humanities for coming up with this initiative," he said.

He encouraged staff members not to wait for a PhD to embark on research, stating that "to become the best researcher does not require you to be a professor. Becoming the best researcher takes dedication and publication.

"The workshop closed with a higher degree’s research advisory by Professor Israel O. Obaroh, the Director of Higher Degrees and Research who reiterated that the University is focused on producing quality graduates at all levels.

"We are after quality and not just quantity, that's why we shall be looking at chapter after chapter for both Masters and PhD research," Prof. Obaroh said.

"External examiners for masters will be two instead of one. One from the area of specialisation and the other from the industry. This applies to all colleges and schools except the school of law which will have three," he added.

The workshop was highly attended by the Heads of departments, staff and students from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences as well as other top University administrators.