A cross-section of faculty members from Enchi College of Education participating in the training session
As part of a strategic drive to strengthen research excellence across the University of Ghana’s affiliated Colleges of Education, the Legon Centre for Education Research and Policy (LECERP) recently hosted a three-day capacity-building workshop. The initiative was designed to equip faculty with the essential skills and practical insights required to successfully publish in high-impact academic journals.
The workshop responds to the evolving role of Colleges of Education, as they transition from traditional teacher training institutions to fully-fledged degree-awarding bodies. It sought to bridge the research skills gap and promote a stronger academic culture among teaching staff.
Dr. Clement Adamba
In his welcome address, Dr. Clement Adamba, Director of LECERP, noted that the Centre, established as the research arm of the University of Ghana’s College of Education, is anchored on three core pillars: Research, Training and Capacity Building, and Advocacy. He explained that the workshop would not only empower participants in the short term but also serve as a springboard for long-term collaborations in research, publication, and professional development.
Dr. Adamba also revealed that remote mentorship would be provided beyond the training to support participants in applying their newly acquired skills.
Professor Gordon Adika, Dean of the School of Education and Leadership
Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of the Provost of the College of Education, Professor Gordon Adika, Dean of the School of Education and Leadership, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to supporting its affiliated Colleges. He described the workshop as a strategic intervention designed to enable staff to engage meaningfully with national and global research conversations. He urged participants to fully immerse themselves in the sessions to maximise the benefits of the programme.
Dr. Emmanuel Adom Ahun, Ag. Principal of the Enchi College of Education
The Acting Principal of Enchi College of Education, Dr. Emmanuel Adom Ahun, extended a warm welcome to the University of Ghana team and expressed his appreciation for the opportunity. He noted with pride that Enchi College of Education was the first among the affiliated Colleges of Education to benefit from such tailored training. Dr. Ahun described the workshop as timely and relevant, particularly in advancing the professional development needs of faculty and encouraged active engagement throughout the sessions.
The training, which covered both theoretical and practical aspects of research, was structured around three key areas: fundamentals of academic writing and publication; linguistic resources for communicating research stance and results; and the application of both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
In the opening session, Professor Gordon Adika introduced participants to the principles of academic publishing. He highlighted the importance of contributing to high-impact journals, highlighting the benefits such as career advancement, scholarly recognition, and influence in one’s area of expertise. He advised participants to develop distinct research niches and focus on under-researched areas to make impactful contributions to knowledge.
Dr. Paul Butakor delivering his presentation
Dr. Paul Butakor, a facilitator and Senior Lecturer at the College of Education, led a session on the fundamentals of academic research. He provided practical guidance on identifying research problems, conducting literature reviews, and selecting suitable research designs and methodologies.
Dr. Innocent Agbelie, Research Fellow, LECERP
In a more hands-on component, Dr. Innocent Agbelie, a Research Fellow at LECERP, introduced participants to quantitative data analysis using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). He walked participants through both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques and demonstrated how to interpret data meaningfully.
Dr. Martin Wiredu Agyekum interacting with participants
Dr. Martin Wiredu Agyekum, also a Research Fellow at LECERP, facilitated a session on qualitative data analysis using ATLAS.ti. He guided faculty through steps such as importing transcripts, coding, identifying themes and reporting qualitative findings.
Breakout sessions allowed participants to work collaboratively, practice with statistical tools, and reflect on research design strategies. Participants were also encouraged to continue collaborating with LECERP faculty to develop manuscripts and engage in future research projects.
The training at Enchi College marks the beginning of a broader capacity-building programme led by LECERP, with Mount Mary College of Education set to be the next beneficiary.