Africa’s complex challenges in conflict resolution, governance, land use, and resource management continue to underscore the need for robust evidence-based research and innovative policy solutions. Strengthening the capacity of young scholars through practical methodological training and interdisciplinary approaches is therefore critical in generating knowledge that informs policy and drives meaningful societal transformation.
This is the central focus of the Collaborative Multidisciplinary Health and Social Research (COMHIS) Summer School Programme, jointly organized by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology and the Nairobi based French Institute for Research in Africa (IFRA).
The Summer School, funded by the Embassy of France in Congo and running from May 12–22, 2026, is designed to equip young scholars with practical research and methodological skills aimed at strengthening multidisciplinary research and enhancing policy-oriented scholarship.
Participants include scholars from France, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and JKUAT students, providing an important platform for cross-cultural academic exchange, collaborative learning, and regional research engagement.
The programme features training in various methodological approaches, case studies, and practical visits to selected Kenyan government projects, designed to strengthen participants’ analytical skills and enhance their capacity to conduct rigorous, policy-relevant research.
Speaking during the official opening of the school, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Ngumi, lauded the partnership between JKUAT and IFRA, noting that it demonstrates how international collaborations can translate into tangible academic impact through research, mentorship, and knowledge production.
“Both institutions have an existing partnership, and the COMHIS Summer School is a clear example of this impact,” said Prof. Ngumi.
The Vice Chancellor further noted the immense impact the school is expected to have, particularly in equipping young scholars with the requisite skills in qualitative research and fieldwork, thereby strengthening their research capacities and preparing them to produce knowledge that informs policy and societal transformation.
Prof. Ngumi underscored the importance of empowering young scholars with the tools needed to effectively engage with and respond to African realities through rigorous and context-relevant research.
“The recently concluded, Africa Forward Summit, reinforced the urgent need for stronger academic cooperation across borders and interdisciplinary research partnerships. This programme aligns perfectly with that vision,” Prof. Ngumi observed.
The Director of IFRA, Dr. Sylvain Racaud, said the Summer School is designed to support young scholars by strengthening their research skills, fostering interdisciplinary learning, and enhancing their ability to contribute to evidence-based policy and societal transformation.
“IFRA is keen to provide the necessary support to scholars through modular training, field engagement, and hands-on methodological approaches,” said Dr. Racaud.
He further noted that the programme, which will be undertaken in two phases, one in May and another in September/October to ensure continuity; will also play a key role in strengthening institutional collaboration.
Mr. Tony Ndruudjo, a PhD candidate at Kisangani University in DRC, said the Summer School will be important in equipping participants with practical research skills and strengthening their capacity to undertake rigorous, policy-relevant studies.
“I am undertaking research on a fuel pipeline between the DRC and Uganda, and the skills gained will be instrumental in improving the quality of my fieldwork, data analysis, and overall research output,” he explained.
Anne Njuguna, a fourth-year Community Development and Environment student at JKUAT, emphasized the importance of the programme in equipping students with practical research skills, interdisciplinary knowledge, and field-based experience essential for addressing real-world societal challenges.
