KIU, MAIN CAMPUS - Kampala International University (KIU) hosted a supervisors' workshop on Wednesday, 12th February 2025, focusing on strategic approaches to quality research, research supervision, and publishing in high-impact journals.

The workshop, organized by the Directorate of Higher Degrees and Research (DHDR) and the Directorate of Research, Innovation, Consultancy and Extension (DRICE), brought together renowned experts to share their insights.

The workshop was launched by Dr. Mundu Mustafa, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Finance and Administration. In his opening remarks, Dr. Mustafa welcomed all KIU staff to the workshop and applauded the speakers for taking time out to share their expertise. "We are honored to have you here today to share your valuable insights and experiences with our staff," he said.

Prof. Muhammed Ngoma, the Vice Chancellor, delivered the first presentation on 'Strategic Approach to Quality Research'. He emphasized that research is a systematic process, and the quality of research is determined by the design stage.

"What determines the quality of your research is the ex-ante, which entails the design stage from ideation, research questions, specific objectives, philosophy, and assumptions, conceptualizations, and operationalization, plus research approaches or robust strategies," Prof. Ngoma explained.

He also stressed the importance of using effective data collection tools. "Quality of research usually dies on tools. If you want quality work, spend time on tools of data collection because your data is as good as the instruments you use," Prof. Ngoma added.

The second presentation, delivered by Prof. Edward Bbaale from Makerere University, focused on the anatomy of research supervision. He noted that successful supervision yields high-quality research and requires collaboration and open dialogue between supervisors and supervisees.

"Supervision calls for activity on the part of the supervisor and the student. The supervisor's roles and responsibilities include academic guidance, ensuring research integrity, managing expectations, and professional development support," Prof. Bbaale said.

He emphasized that students should take the initiative in exploring and solving research problems. "In return, the student ought to have a thorough understanding of the research topic and take initiative in exploring and solving research problems," Prof. Bbaale added.

Prof. Dr. Michael Frese delivered the final presentation on how to publish in high-impact journals. He advised staff to conduct research with publication in mind and avoid methodological mistakes.

"In preparation for research, think of the journal in which you want to publish and go through some checks to see whether the research is appropriate for that journal," Prof. Dr. Frese explained.

He also cautioned staff to be selective when choosing journals. "Be careful of predatory journals and make sure you select a journal that is reputable and aligns with your research goals," Prof. Dr. Frese added.

During the question-and-answer session, staff expressed concerns about Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated research content. Prof. Dr. Frese responded by highlighting the importance of using AI as a guide, but not relying solely on it.

"AI is used by both the supervisor and the student. The supervisor uses it to identify research gaps, while the student uses it in compiling research. AI is a smart conversationalist, so use it as a guide, but use it intelligently," Prof. Dr. Frese explained.

In closing remarks, Christine Ainebyoona, the Campus Administrator, revealed that this year, the university has decided to focus not only on research but also on publications.

"We want to encourage our staff to produce high-quality research that contributes to the global knowledge base. We believe that this workshop has provided valuable insights and skills to help us achieve this goal," Ainebyoona said.

The workshop was attended by KIU staff, who expressed appreciation for the valuable insights and skills shared by the speakers.

Prof. Regina Idu Ejemot, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Innovation, Consultancy, and Extension, noted, "Today, we have learned a lot and made several connections. There will not be any harm if you meet a fellow supervisor to find out how to go about a certain problem".

Prof. Israel Olusegun Obaroh, Director of Higher Degrees and Research, commended the speakers and staff for their active participation in the workshop. He emphasized the importance of collaborative research and publication, saying:

"With the knowledge and skills gained from this workshop, I encourage our lecturers to mentor and collaborate with our PhD students on research projects, leading to co-publications that enhance our university's research profile and contribute to the global knowledge base."

The workshop was a testament to KIU's commitment to research excellence and its dedication to providing staff with the skills and knowledge needed to produce high-quality research and publications.