UR & CARTA : Academics from African varsities discuss new skills in the development of PhD programs

29-08-2022

Academics and researchers are convened in Kigali for a week long seminar organized by the consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA) in collaboration with the University of Rwanda. The Joint Advanced Seminar which is a Training of Trainers Program in nature brought together around fifty participants from fourteen African universities.

A section of participants during break out session

In his opening remarks, UR Ag, VC Dr Didace Kayihura hailed CARTA approach to fund and promote PhD programmes in consideration with context and challenges that respective countries are facing. According to him, the Consortium complements to the existing UR ambition to establish contextual PhD studies. He added that the new move would produce a critical mass that can advance the development of the University of Rwanda and the country at large.

The VC Dr Kayihura having a side discussion with 2 participants during the seminar

“PhD studies are more efficient when they reflect contextual challenges faced by institutions and countries,” said Kayihura.

In the course of the seminar, institutional-based facilitators will gain exposure to CARTA approach to pedagogy which will strengthen their capacities and enthusiasm to implement quality PhD training programs at their own institutions.

In addition, participants will be allowed to explore and practice various teaching methods using CARTA techniques while exploring available resources on the CARTA curriculum website. The seminar will also be an opportunity for participants to learn some skills in using virtual spaces to support blended learning

Dr. Marta Vicente-Crespo, CARTA Program Manager during her presentation

Since its inception in 2011, CARTA has funded 133 graduates with PhD among them 53% being female. The consortium boasts 227 active fellows across Africa who have contributed to around 2523 articles in peer reviewed journals. CARTA is now in its 3rd phase which aims to create research hubs in partner institutions while enhancing the engagement of its community with the society among others.