Empowering African Scholars: DIaDeRC’s Impactful Presence at the 16th General Assembly of CODESRIA

DePECOS Institutions and Development Research Centre (DIaDeRC) remains steadfast in its commitment to facilitate the widespread dissemination of research and valuable insights aimed at enhancing the scholarly and research experience for researchers across disciplines within and outside Africa. Central to this commitment is the African Scholars Mentorship Network (ASMN), a flagship programme of DIaDeRC designed to realise this vision through periodic series on grant writing, data analysis, and research writing training, among others. While these sessions are primarily conducted virtually, occasional in-person events, such as the upcoming DIaDeRC-TASUED workshop on February 15-16, 2024, provide valuable opportunities for direct engagement.

To better serve the diverse members of ASMN, group clusters have been established based on research specialties or interests, ensuring that relevant information regarding grants, conferences, and calls for papers is regularly shared. Consequently, when the call for papers was announced for potential presentation at the esteemed Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA) 16th General Assembly that also marked CODESRIA’s 50th Anniversary, ASMN members were notified. The ASMN community mobilised for a range of paper submissions and presentations aligned with the conference theme as: ‘Social Sciences and ‘Pandemics’ in Africa.’

Upon the announcement of paper acceptances, three ASMN members, including the chair (Prof Evans Osabuohien), were among those selected to feature and present their papers at the CODESRIA’s 16th General Assembly, which took place December 4-8, 2023, in Dakar, Senegal. The event served as a convergence point for brilliant scholars and aspiring researchers across various social science, arts and humanity disciplines, fostering not only paper presentations but also valuable networking opportunities and awareness building.

The three DIaDeRC team members who presented at this all-expense-paid event include Prof Evans Osabuohien (Chair of DIaDeRC), Dr Ngwengeh Brendaline Beloke (Central Africa Coordinator, DIaDeRC), and Dr Neema Kumburu (East Africa Coordinator, DIaDeRC). Prof Evans shared insights from his recently published book volume titled “Socioeconomic Shocks, Social Protection and Food Security amidst COVID-19 Pandemic in Africa: The Case of Nigeria.” Dr. Kumburu’s paper delved into “Disaster Vulnerability and the Welfare of Smallholder Farmers in Tanzania,” while Dr. Beloke explored “Threats and Management of Commercial Banks in Times of Pandemics in Cameroon.” These presentations provided a thoughtful platform for researchers and policymakers to reflect on Africa’s progress post-COVID-19 and discuss other pervasive ‘pandemics’ affecting livelihoods on the continent.

What adds significance to the event in relation to DIaDeRC’s mission is CODESRIA’s dedication to promoting, facilitating, and disseminating research within the social sciences across Africa, fostering a community that transcends language, country, age, and gender barriers. In alignment with CODESRIA’s objectives, DIaDeRC’s initiatives are tailored to empower African scholars.

You too can be part of this dynamic network by signing up for the upcoming DIaDeRC-TASUED Workshop scheduled for February 15-16, 2024. Themed “Grant Writing, Winning, and a Rewardable Scholarly Career,” this workshop promises to be a transformative experience for your scholarly journey and professional network. Click this link to get started: http://bit.ly/DIaDeRC-TASUED.

One Response

  1. Well done DlaDeRC and #ASMN. This is the way we move for scholarly excellence. More Grace to us All. The number 1 Network of African Scholars is no other than #ASMN

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