UR academics gain communication tips for research dissemination

The University of Rwanda staff concluded a two day training workshop on research communication. Supported by UR-Sweden Programme, the workshop aimed at equipping UR staff especially those involved in research works on ways to communicate their research findings to a variety of audiences.

Speaking during the workshop,MrLars Kåreklint, the facilitator of the workshop and Communications Officer at Linköping University -Swedennoted that the research workshop will enable UR academics to use propercommunication methods andchannelsso that they can reach out to their stakeholders and other intended audience. 

“The drive for research is always about sharing knowledge; you could tell that the workshop content has been well received and am sure that staff are going to benefit from it"Lars said.

Among the participants at the workshop was Dr. Robinah K. Namuleme who is the University Librarian. She said that through the training they acquired skills that will enable them to communicate their research outputs in a layman’s language by using simple and standard structures which in the end makes an impact to beneficiaries.

"The training has enhanced my skillsof being able to present my research work and make impact at the same time," She said, addingthat research presentation will be enriched by making it more interactive with the use of photographs or other illustrations to help the target audience viewingand listening -This will ultimately create double impact.

In his closing remarks, Prof.Kato Njunwa the Ag. University Director of Research, Innovation, and Postgraduate Studies expressed his gratitude to the facilitator, participants and the University for a successful training. He urged the participants to make use of the workshop and be able to disseminate research findings to the intended beneficiaries; andpledged continuing support from the Directorate. 

The workshop brought together researchers, communication professionals and other key actors in research area including journal editors and publication officers. Participants committed to embrace the culture of sharing research findings with their peers and various stakeholders. The workshop tackled various topics among others the best approach to write for others, communication channels and the use of social media for strategic communication. 

By Darius Murangwa
Communications Officer