Four Pre-doctoral and PhD students from the Center for Rural Health recently attended the renowned African Doctoral Academy (ADA) 2024 Winter School at the University of Stellenbosch. This intensive course focused on effective writing for master’s and doctoral students, providing a valuable opportunity for academic and professional development.
Throughout the program, the students participated in daily workshops designed to enhance their writing skills. These sessions covered a wide range of topics, from structuring academic papers to refining their arguments and improving clarity and coherence in their writing.
In addition to the workshops, the students received personalized assistance from both their peers and the academy staff. This 1:1 mentorship allowed them to receive tailored feedback on their work, helping them to address specific challenges and improve their writing proficiency.
A highlight of the Winter School was the series of speaking events centered around the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in research. These sessions provided insightful discussions on how AI can be leveraged to enhance academic research, offering the students a glimpse into cutting-edge developments in their fields.
Moreover, the Winter School facilitated networking opportunities with academic peers from various disciplines. This interdisciplinary exchange allowed the students to broaden their perspectives, form valuable connections, and foster potential collaborations.
A significant outcome of their participation is the establishment of a collaborative CRH Masters and PhD Research Group, spearheaded by one of the attendees, Usangaphile Buthelezi. This new group aims to build on the skills and networks developed at the ADA Winter School, promoting a culture of collaboration and mutual support among graduate students at the Center for Rural Health.
The experience at the African Doctoral Academy Winter School has equipped these PhD students with advanced writing skills and a broader professional network, significantly contributing to their academic growth and future research endeavors.
