Three researchers from the Environment for Development (EfD) Ghana network—Kwami Adanu, Wisdom Akpalu, and Francis Atsu—hosted graduate students and early-career researchers for a one-day workshop. The session, themed Innovations in Identifying Research Topics, Writing the Research Problem, and Conducting Literature Reviews, provided a platform for the facilitators to share extensive knowledge, practical strategies, and personal experiences with the participants.
Leading the session, Kwami Adanu highlighted the critical steps in identifying research problems and gaps, underscoring their importance to ensure that the research is original and impactful. Using practical examples, he demonstrated how studies on topics such as COVID-19, masking compliance in Ghanaian fishing communities, and plastic waste management policy addressed real-world problems while identifying gaps in existing research.
The workshop also introduced participants to innovative research tools such as ChatGPT and SciSpace, which can streamline processes like identifying research gaps and structuring literature reviews.
Wisdom Akpalu and Francis Atsu added depth to Adanu’s presentation by drawing from their own research experiences. Wisdom Akpalu emphasized the transformative role of quality mentorship in nurturing exceptional researchers. He encouraged participants to seek out strong mentors, approach mentorship with dedication, and invest hard work to ensure mutually beneficial relationships.
Participants engaged in lively discussions with the facilitators, sharing their challenges and receiving personalized advice on their research journeys.
Speaking on the broader objectives of EfD Ghana, Director Wisdom Akpalu said, “EfD Ghana is committed to strengthening students’ capacity through outside-the-classroom learning opportunities. These sessions not only enhance their academic skills but also expose them to new networks, enriching their career prospects and positioning them for success in the field of research.”
The workshop, held on 9 December at the University of Ghana, drew participants from EfD Ghana host institutions, the University of Ghana and the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), as well as other public universities.
By Vicentia Quartey