From July 8-16 2024, twenty-one Master's students from the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) presented their research concept to a panel of scientists from each of Ifakara Health Institute’s branches; Ifakara, Bagamoyo and Dar es Salaam. 

The objective was to receive critical feedback aimed at refining these concepts into comprehensive research proposals, which will eventually develop into full studies. The master’s program is run by NM-AIST in collaboration with the Ifakara Health Institute and is being hosted at the Ifakara’s Training Center facility in Bagamoyo.

These students are part of the seventh cohort of the accredited Master's program, offered in partnership between NM-AIST and IHI. The program is designed to develop skills in various scientific disciplines, aligning with Ifakara's key research areas.

Enrolled since January of this year, these students are currently pursuing a two-year Master's program in Public Health Research at the Ifakara Training Center facility in Bagamoyo. This program operates under the mandate of NM-AIST and follows a bilateral agreement between IHI and NM-AIST.

Since the program's inception in 2017 with an initial cohort of 13 students, Ifakara has supported numerous scholars throughout their academic journey, guiding them from enrollment through to graduation.

Learn more about Ifakara training programs here: https://www.ihi.or.tz/our-training/ 

During the presentations, a dozen Ifakara scientists, including some serving as supervisors to the students, provided insightful feedback to each presenter, offering suggestions intended to refine these concepts into robust research studies. The occasion also served as a platform for networking and the exchange of ideas on health-related topics among students and scientists alike.

Dr. Kafuruki Shubis, Head of the Ifakara Training Centre, commended the students' dedication and expressed optimism about their future success. He was joined by colleagues including Dr. Dickson Lweitojera and Dr. Grace Mwanangoka, who are facilitating the week-long program.

View the photo galleries here; Ifakara, Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo