KARATINA UNIVERSITY HOSTS BRIDGING MINDS WORKSHOP-BECOMING A RESEARCHER: A MAX PLANCK AFRICA 1-WEEK-EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS – INITIATIVE – AFRICA

Karatina University, School of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, in Collaboration with the Max Planck Institute, Animal Behaviour Group, Development and Evolution of Cognition (DECog) research group, in Konstanz, Germany, hosted a 7-day workshop on bridging the mind.  

Max Planck Society aims to strengthen Africa as a centre of science in the mid and long term. The aim is to bridge the educational gap between African students and the science education of the Global North, by providing local students and young researchers with the necessary tools, mentorship and resources to excel within their home countries. The program aims to retain their genius locally while preventing the loss of talent through emigration.

A section of the participants keenly following through the presentations.

During the one-week workshop at Karatina University, a 6-member DECog team from MPI trained 30 postgraduates on research, coming up with a research question, data collection, data analysis, publication, delivering scientific talks, landing a first job, securing research funds, and the power of collaboration.

Each day focused on a distinct theme, ranging from scientific writing to collaboration, funding, and Curriculum Vitae (CV) development. Participants engaged in practical exercises, including writing CVs and cover letters, programming, and conducting observation simulations. Afternoons were reserved for open discussions and mentorship sessions, providing opportunities to share insights gained during the day. Participants also explored potential research directions, ethical use of Artificial Intelligence,  and received valuable feedback on their research proposals. Additionally, instructors shared reflections on their career journeys, offering inspiration and guidance to the aspiring researchers.

The workshop wrapped up with a thesis planning and mentorship session, sending the future researchers with not only technical expertise but also direction regarding their research.

The group poses for a group photo with the Max Planck Institute if Animal Behaviour at the end of the workshop.